Graduations, HELMS transition cause provider licensing delays

In response to reports of provider licensing delays, WSHA reached out to the Department of Health, Nursing Commission and Medical Commission for information and to express our concerns.  

DOH noted the Office of Health Professions is facing significant pressures as health professions graduation season peaks at the same time as WSHA’s transition to the Healthcare Enforcement and Licensing Management System (HELMS).  

HELMS recently underwent a complex and critical upgrade to its credentialing process. While a transition of this size is challenging, it is hoped that the system will offer improvements to the user portal to track and manage credentials, and long-term data security, digital documentation and centralized information. (Chelene Whiteaker)