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
MSDC Announces 2023 Capital Healthcare Honorees
2023 Capital Healthcare Honorees Are Leaders in Women’s Health, Health Equity, Healthcare Reform, and Mentorship
Washington, D.C., February 9, 2023 – The Medical Society of the District of Columbia (MSDC), the largest medical organization in the District representing metropolitan Washington physicians, is pleased to announce the winners of the 2023 Capital Healthcare Honors, presented by MSDC. The awards ceremony and dinner will take place on Friday evening, May 5, 2023, where news happen, at the National Press Club, located at 529 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20045.
The Capital Healthcare Honors is a gala event where healthcare and honor meet, and this year’s recipients are deserving of honor. The recipients are renowned for the work to improve public health in the areas of women’s health, health equity, and mentorship, and fight for healthcare reform. The event will bring together healthcare leaders and professionals from across metropolitan Washington to recognize the healthcare heroes and dignitaries who have strived to preserve the health and wellbeing of the nation’s capital, the Medical Society, and the profession.
MSDC President Dr. Susanne Bathgate said, “This year’s Capital Healthcare Honorees have a legacy of service, leadership, and commitment to medicine. The achievements of these physicians have been critical to the promotion and improvement of the health and wellbeing of our nation's capital.” Honorees were nominated by MSDC membership and selected by a panel of previous MSDC award winners.
The 2023 Capital Healthcare Honorees are:
Constance Bohon – Dr. Charles H. Epps, III Community Service Award (in recognition of outstanding public service to the community)
Dr. Bohon is being recognized for her work on women’s health and maternal health, especially serving as an advisor to the District on maternal health issues.
John Larsen, MD (posthumous) – Distinguished Service Award (in recognition of service to the Medical Society)
Dr. Larsen is being recognized posthumously for his years of mentorship of physician leaders, including MSDC leaders, and service to the Medical Society.
Peter Lavine, MD – Certificate of Meritorious Service (in recognition of distinguished service to the medical profession)
Dr. Lavine is being recognized for his leadership on physician practice issues with MSDC and the AMA and for District residents.
James Taylor, MD – John Benjamin Nichols Award, presented by UnitedHealthcare (in recognition of outstanding contributions toward improving the health of the community)
Dr. Taylor is being recognized for research into sickle cell disease and leadership of the groundbreaking work at Howard University’s Center for Sickle Cell Disease.
The awards will be presented on Friday evening, May 5, 2023, at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. The celebration will feature a full dinner, awards ceremony, and networking receptions. For information on the 2023 Capital Healthcare Honors, the 2023 Honorees, and how to attend or support the event, visit www.msdc.org/CHH.
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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