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
Committee on Health Advances Vaccination Bill
The Council's Committee on Health yesterday passed a bill permitting informed minors to consent to vaccinations, among a list of other bills.
The Minor Consent for Vaccinations Amendment Act of 2019 (B23-171) permits a minor aged 11 or older to receive a vaccine recommended by the US Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices without a parent or guardian's consent. The bill, written by Councilmember Mary Cheh, was in response to the increased activity by the "anti-vaxxer" movement. The bill as amended permits providers to receive reimbursement without involving the parents/guardian and permits minors to receive a copy of their immunization record without parental consent.
The Medical Society of DC and the DC Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP DC) worked closely with the Council to ensure the bill was medically sound. MSDC member Elizabeth Ghandakly testified on behalf of the Society at the June 26, 2019 hearing. At the markup, Chair Vincent Gray specifically thanked MSDC and its members for their work on the bill.
Two other bills were marked-up and passed out of committee yesterday of note for DC physicians. The first is B23-529, the Certificate of Stillbirth Amendment Act of 2019. The bill authorizes DC Health to create a process for a woman or couple to request a birth certificate for a stillborn pregnancy. MSDC member Dr. Sam Kareff testified in support of the bill, and the bill's language was reviewed with Council staff by MSDC and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).
The second bill is B23-535, the Opioid Labeling Amendment Act of 2020. The bill requires prescription opioid medications to include a statement that the drug is an opioid and that opioids may cause dependence, addiction, or overdose. Dr. Kareff testified in support of the bill on behalf of MSDC at its hearing on July 29, 2020.
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.
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