Opioid Policies
Much like the rest of the United States, residents of the District of Columbia are struggling with substance use disorder (SUD) rate increases and high rates of opioid-related deaths. Unfortunately, these are multi-faceted issues that require year-long initiatives and systematic programs to address the myriad causes of addiction.
MSDC stands as a partner to the District government and private entities to help arrest the rates of opioid and substance abuse in the District. Through our advocacy for better prescribing practices, education on addiction, and even helping our own community through our Physician Health Program, MSDC is working to make DC a leader in reducing SUD, OUD, and addiction.
On a related note, MSDC is passionate about helping patients make prescriptions and medication more affordable. Whether expanding access to biosimilars or advocating for more affordable co-pays, MSDC wants to help our patients afford the medications they need.
MSDC Statement and Testimony on Opioid and Prescription Issues
25th Council information coming soon
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AMA Report: Sharp Decreases in Opioid Prescribing and Increases in Drug-Related Overdose and DeathSeptember 21, 2021
MSDC and the AMA lay out a series of recommendations to combat the epidemic of drug-related overdoses and deaths.
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Mayor Bowser Issues Emergency Order Addressing MedStar's MCO StatusSeptember 3, 2021
MSDC joins letter with DC Hospital Association, DC Primary Care Association, DC Behavioral Health Association, and DC Health Care Association urging Council and Mayor to create long-term solution.
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AMA Issues Roadmap for Equity in MedicineMay 12, 2021
The AMA offers a roadmap to rectifying medicine's mistakes towards marginalized communities.
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MSDC Offers Data and Resources for Roundtable Discussion on DC's Opioid CrisisApril 7, 2021
In preparation for MSDC's April 14 roundtable on DC's opioid crisis, MSDC is sharing opioid data and dashboards, research and analysis, and commentary.
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Sample of Legislation MSDC Tracked on Opioid and Prescription Policy
What does it do? The bill authorizes licensed pahrmacists to dispense interchangeable biological products and requires notifications to physicians when such interchangeables are dispensed.
MSDC position: MSDC has a position of priority support on this legislation, identifying its passage as one of its highest legislative priorities.
Current status: SUCCESS. The bill was passed by the Council and signed by the Mayor.
What does it do? The bill requires prescription opioid medications to include a statement that the drug is an opioid and opioids may cause dependence, addiction, or overdoes.
MSDC position: MSDC supports the legislation.
Current status: The bill had a hearing before the Committee on Health on July 29, 2020. MSDC leader Dr. Sam Kareff testified for the Medical Society. It passed the Council on November 10 and was signed by the Mayor December 7.
What does it do? The bill prohibits insurance companies from factoring the use of PreP in decisions related to disability, life, or long-term care policies.
MSDC position: MSDC supports this legislation
Current status: The bill was introduced on January 8, 2019 and assigned to the Committee on Business and Economic Development.