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 Raises Scope Creep and More with DC Board of Medicine
MSDC attended the DC Board of Medicine’s in-person open session meeting today. The meeting took place at DC Health’s new headquarters, located in Ward 8 at 2201 Shannon Pl SE, Washington, DC 20020. The meeting addressed government relations, licensure, and other physician matters. According to the current licensure census, there are currently over 13,000 physicians (MD and DO) licensed in the District of Columbia.
Topics of physician interest
- The DC scope expansion bill, or HORA, the Health Occupations Revision Act, will have its second and final vote on May 7. MSDC reiterated its strong concerns about the current iteration of the bill, which you can read about here. MSDC highlighted patient safety concerns and will continue to vigorously voice patient and physician concerns with the Board of Medicine and other stakeholders. Physicians are invited to join MSDC’s sign-on letter and to participate in MSDC’s ongoing advocacy.
- The Department of Health had its budget oversight hearings on April 11. Among the programs that will move forward is funding for professional loan repayment.
- The DC Council is considering a bill, the Firearm Injury Prevention Amendment Act, which includes a continuing education requirement for physicians and other medical professionals. MSDC is strongly opposed to all content-specific CME mandates and opposes this bill.
- Physicians are reminded that this is a license renewal year, and all DC physician licenses expire December 31, 2024. The Board of Medicine has not yet finalized the public health priority topics for this cycle. MSDC will keep members updated on CME and other requirements and will stand ready to provide individual assistance.
- MSDC discussed the Gender Equity Task Force’s compensation survey to evaluate gender pay equity among physicians in Washington, D.C. MSDC’s survey will be released in May and all physicians are encouraged to participate given the importance of diversity and equity in ensuring a sustainable workforce. Please be on the lookout so that MSDC can have a representative sample.
- The Board of Medicine has multiple vacancies for physician members. Interested members should note that the residency requirement for serving on the Board of Medicine has been modified. MSDC encourages any members who are interested to contact Robert Hay at hay@msdc.org.
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.