Swedish Construction Closure

Hello Seattle Medical Associates Patients,

We have received an update from Providence/Swedish on this two-week road closure project. This project was originally slated for 9/21/25 thru 10/8/25 - it has been delayed to 10/8/25 thru 10/24/25 (due to some conflicts with the City of Seattle's availability). Just to recap, here are the important details:

• Minor Ave and the intersection w/ Columbia St will be closed 24 hours/day

• Pedestrian traffic across Minor Ave to and from the hospital and First Hill Medical Pavilion will be diverted to Marion St and will be encouraged to use the Physicians Garage entrance or the main entrance on Broadway

• Access to the First Hill Medical Pavilion drop-off will be maintained via Marion St

• Access to the First Hill Medical Pavilion parking garage will be maintained via Boren Ave

• Access to the emergency room drop-off and loading dock will be maintained at all times

• Flaggers will be on site to direct traffic and pedestrians

If you have any questions or concerns, please let us know. Thanks!

Seattle Medical Associates Physicians and Staff

Standing Order improves vaccine access for everyone in WA 6 months and older

OLYMPIA – The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) issued a Standing Order for the COVID-19 vaccine, making it easier for Washington residents to get vaccinated. The order comes as DOH reaffirms its guidance that everyone 6 months and older, including pregnant people, should stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations to protect against severe illness, hospitalization, and death. This recommendation aligns with guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the American Academy of Family Physicians.

“COVID-19 vaccines are well-researched, well-tested, and have saved millions of lives around the world,” said Dr. Tao Sheng Kwan-Gett, State Health Officer, DOH. “The barriers to COVID-19 vaccination are complex, and the Standing Order is just one part of the solution. We want to ensure all Washington residents have access to the protection these vaccines provide based on the best available science.”

Standing Order improves vaccine access

The new Standing Order allows most residents to go directly to a Washington pharmacy or clinic and receive the COVID-19 vaccine without an individual prescription. The vaccine remains covered by most private insurers, Apple Health, and Washington’s Adult Vaccine and Childhood Vaccine Programs, removing barriers and helping people stay healthy. Learn more about the Standing Order and find answers to frequently asked questions here.

https://doh.wa.gov/newsroom/doh-confirms-covid-19-vaccine-position-new-standing-order

Masking Requirements for Seattle Medical Associates

The mask mandate for WA State changed on April 1, 2023. However, many healthcare facilities throughout Puget Sound continue to require masking. Public Health Insider Statement on Masking

To best protect the safety of all our patients and our staff, patients and visitors will be required to wear a mask while in our clinic.

Thank you for your understanding.