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
Five easy ways in May to reduce prior auths in DC
May is a HUGE month in the fight to reduce the prior auth burden in DC. Imagine a world with fewer insurance denials and when prior authorizations happen, they are more targeted and medically sound.
Fantasy? Not if you take a few minutes this month to do one or more of the following
- Testify on May 24 at the prior authorization bill hearing. It's easy and convenient. The hearing starts at 9:30 AM and is completely virtual. MSDC can even sign you up if you ask.
- Learn more about prior auth changes (and potential changes) by joining Dr. Patience White for a discussion on the state of prior authorization in DC. She will be joined by Council staff and the AMA to discuss the hearing and other updates.
- Want to testify at this hearing or a future one, but don't know how? MSDC President Dr. Susanne Bathgate is having a brief lunch session on testifying before the Council - learn more here.
- Let MSDC know you're interested in this issue. Seriously - that's it. We can't keep you up to date if we don't know.
- Sign our sign-on letter here.
We've been talking A LOT about prior authorization recently, and it is because our DC bill puts practical but effective limits on when insurers (private and public) can slap a prior authorization on your prescriptions. See here how.
But this great new reality won't happen if physicians, patients, and practices don't act now. The good news is it is easier than ever to make a difference.
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.