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
Call for Advocacy Volunteers: Join Our New Task Forces!
Are you passionate about healthcare policy and governance? Do you want to make a meaningful impact in the DC medical community? The MSDC Board is excited to announce the formation of two new task forces, and we are seeking dedicated volunteers to join us in this important work.
Task Force 1: Federal Policy Task Force
The first task force will focus on analyzing actions taken by the President and Congress that affect healthcare and the District government. This group will be responsible for:
- Monitoring and evaluating relevant legislation and executive actions.
- Assessing the potential impact of these actions on our organization and the communities we serve.
- Developing strategic recommendations for how MSDC should respond to these developments, and make recommendations to the MSDC Board.
We are looking for individuals with a strong understanding of healthcare policy, legislative processes, or advocacy. Your insights will help us navigate the complex landscape of federal actions and ensure that our organization remains proactive and responsive.
Task Force 2: Policy Review Task Force
The second task force will undertake a comprehensive review of our Board-approved policies. This group will be tasked with:
- Evaluating existing policies to determine their effectiveness and relevance.
- Identifying policies that may need to be updated or changed in light of new information or changing circumstances.
- Proposing new policies that align with our mission and enhance our operations.
We invite volunteers with experience in nonprofit governance, policy analysis, or organizational development to lend their expertise. Your contributions will be vital in ensuring that our policies reflect best practices and support our mission effectively.
How to Get Involved
If you are interested in joining either of these task forces, please reach out to us at hay@msdc.org. In your message, let us know which task force you would like to join and a brief overview of your relevant experience or interest.
Volunteering for these task forces is a fantastic opportunity to engage with critical issues in healthcare and contribute to the strategic direction of our nonprofit. Together, we can make a difference!
Thank you for considering this opportunity to serve. We look forward to hearing from you!
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.