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September 2023 Provider News - Bonus Edition

Date: 09/11/23

In this issue: 

  • General Updates - NEWS UPDATE: Lynx Healthcare pain management clinic in Spokane Valley and Kennewick (formerly Pinnacle Pain Center) to close on September 8
  • Apple Health Core Connections - Enrollment Delays for Youth in Foster Care

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General Updates

NEWS UPDATE: Lynx Healthcare pain management clinic in Spokane Valley and Kennewick (formerly Pinnacle Pain Center) to close on September 8

Lynx Healthcare (formerly Pinnacle Pain Center), a pain management clinic operating in Spokane Valley and Kennewick, has announced its impending closure on Friday, September 8.

This will affect approximately 2,000 patients across the state, many of which are Coordinated Care members. Most patients are receiving treatment for chronic pain management, though a smaller subset of patients are receiving addiction medicine treatment for opioid use disorder.

With patient safety being the top priority, Coordinated Care of Washington in conjuncture with the Health Care Authority, Department of Health, Department of Labor and Industries and community organizations are working to ensure patients do not experience disruption in care to the greatest extent possible.

However, given the suddenness of Lynx’s closure, we anticipate that some patients may have difficulty obtaining new pain management or addiction medicine providers.

We are advising our members to contact Coordinated Care’s Member Services (1-877-644-4613) to learn about their options.

Health practitioners treating displaced patients are not in danger of disciplinary action from the state’s Medical Commission. This protection extends to all activities related to ordering, prescribing, dispensing, or administering controlled substances, including opioids, within the bounds of legitimate medical purposes and professional practice.

Lynx Healthcare has issued a page on its website detailing the impending closures. This notice provides patients with essential guidance on securing a final appointment, procuring medical records, and identifying alternative pain clinic options available in the vicinity.

There are potential dangers associated with the abrupt cessation of prescribed pain medication, particularly for those who have been on these medications for extended periods or at high doses. The abrupt discontinuation could lead to withdrawal symptoms and heightened health risks, including potential for elevated risk of overdose and suicide.

Potential Impact to Local Hospitals:

The impending closure could lead to patients presenting at local emergency departments exhibiting withdrawal symptoms or seeking prescription refills. Patients may present at elevated risk of overdose and suicide. Medical professionals are advised to be vigilant and prepared for these potential scenarios.

Potential Impact to Local Law Enforcement and Emergency Medical Services:

The closure could potentially trigger an increase in emergency service calls due to withdrawal symptoms or other medical issues stemming from alterations in patients' pain management routines, including potential for an elevated risk of overdose and suicide. Authorities and emergency medical services should be prepared for these situations.

Guidance for patients

The abrupt closure of a pain clinic is stressful for patients. Concerns include worsening pain, medication withdrawal, and finding a new pain care or addiction medicine provider. It is essential to offer as much guidance as possible to affected patients. This guidance includes:

  • Start looking for a new doctor or clinic as soon as you can.
    • Coordinated Care’s Member Services can assist with finding in-network providers (1-877-644-4613)
  • Members can also search the “Find a Provider” page on our website
  • Contact Lynx for a copy of your medical records so you can pass this along to a new doctor.
  • Check Lynx’s website for other clinics in the area.
  • The Washington State Recovery Helpline has a Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) locator to help addiction medicine-specific patients find access to a new buprenorphine provider for their opioid use disorder.
  • Prior to September 8: Please call Lynx Healthcare at 509-591-0070 if you need a final appointment.

Other clinic options in the area

Spokane pain clinic options

Kennewick pain clinic options

Restore Health & Pain Treatment Group

Restore Health & Pain Treatment Group

Anesis Spine & Pain Care

Dr. Jean You, MD

The Spine Team

Axis Spine Institute

Pain Clinic of Spokane

Benton Franklin Orthopedic Assoc. (procedures)

Northwest Spine and Pain Medicine

 

Addiction services

Restore Health & Pain Treatment Group

Restore Health & Pain Treatment Group

Ideal Options

Ideal Options

Lynx Healthcare Closure FAQs

Which locations are impacted?

Lynx Healthcare Spokane Valley
12709 E. Mirabeau Parkway
Building A, Suite 300
Spokane Valley, WA  99216

Lynx Healthcare Kennewick
7401 W. Hood Place, Suite 200
Kennewick, WA  99336

Why was the clinic closed?

The clinic closed due to financial insolvency.

When will it reopen?

There are no plans to reopen the clinic.

Do I need to find a new pain clinic?

Yes, you will need to find a new pain clinic, the following are some options:

  • Coordinated Care’s Member Services can assist with finding in-network providers (1-877-644-4613)
  • Coordinated Care members can also search the “Find a Provider” page on our website.
  • Lynx Healthcare has listed closures on their website.
  • You can also contact your primary care provider to learn more about your options.

The Washington State Recovery Helpline has a Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD) locator to help addiction medicine-specific patients find access to a new buprenorphine provider for their opioid use disorder.

Can I get a copy of my medical records?

To get a copy of your medical records, call Lynx Healthcare at 509-591-0070. You may also use their Patient Portal to obtain your medical records.

Will my current prescriptions be accepted by my pharmacy?

Yes, your current prescriptions will be accepted by your pharmacy.

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Apple Health Core Connections (AHCC)

Enrollment Delays for Youth in Foster Care (Apple Health Core Connections)

The Foster Care and Adoption Support Team at the Health Care Authority is experiencing a 5+ week delay in processing new Apple Health Core Connections enrollment applications after children/youth become dependents of the State. Coordinated Care is working closely with the Health Care Authority and the Department of Children, Youth and Families to minimize delays in needed services for youth. Providers may see an increase in the number of interim vouchers being presented and we ask that you continue to accept these vouchers as proof of the youth’s eligibility as a Coordinated Care enrollee. Please do not withhold health care services, including filling prescriptions, based on lack of verified eligibility in ProviderOne or Coordinated Care’s Provider Portal for a youth in foster care. Contact our Apple Health Core Connections team at AHCCTeam@coordinatedcarehealth.com or 1-844-354-9876 for expedited assistance. Thank you for your patience and partnership.

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