Women's Health
MSDC has long advocated for women's health protections, the rights of women physicians, and affordable care for women's issues. MSDC works closes with ACOG, AAFP, AAP, and other specialty organizations to craft local legislation that allows DC to be the best place to practice women's and maternal medicine.
In the face of a maternal mortality crisis in the District, engagement in these issues is more important than ever. Learn more about how MSDC is working to protect the health of women, mothers, and babies in all wards in the city.
MSDC Statements and Testimony on Women's Health Issues
25th Council information coming soon!
MSDC Board Meets with DHCF Chief Medical Officer
As part of the Society's continued collaboration with the District government, the Board of Directors invited Dr. Chimene Liburd, the new Chief Medical Officer of the Department of Health Care Finance (DHCF), to present at our June Directors' meeting.
Dr. Liburd spoke with the Board about DHCF's management structure, her goals for working with healthcare stakeholders, and department goals that will impact the healthcare community. The Board and Dr. Liburd had a robust discussion on shared priorities as well as pain points for the physician community with Medicaid. The conversation continues a great working relationship between DHCF and MSDC.
In addition to this presentation, the Board on Monday:
- Approved a new "fast track to leadership" plan to help medical students and residents prepare for future leadership opportunities in organized medicine.
- Accepted the final report of the Public Health Task Force and thanked it for its work.
- Approved the date (November 1) and location (coming soon) for the 2024 annual meeting of members.
- Agreed to contract with the Rhode Island Medical Society to staff the Physician Health Program.
The next Board of Directors meeting is September 16 at MSDC's offices.
Sample of Legislation MSDC Followed in Women's Health and Maternal Health
(See the whole list of bills here)
What does the bill do? Extends postpartum inpatient and outpatient benefits to at least one year after childbirth
MSDC position: We support this legislation and the extension of insurance benefits to mothers and babies to help maternal health in the District
Current status: SUCCESS. The bill passed the Council and was signed into law by the Mayor on August 14, 2020.
What does the bill do? The bill prohibits the District government from interfering with patients' reproductive health decisions and prohibits employers from punishing physicians who perform abortions or sterilizations outside of their employment.
MSDC position: We support this legislation as it allows physicians freedom of practice.
Current status: SUCCESS. The bill passed the Committee on Government Operations in January. MSDC submitted testimony at the December hearing, and MSDC member Sara Imershein testified at the hearing. The Council passed the bill and the Mayor signed it into law on March 23, 2020.
What does the bill do? The bill extends coverage for maternal health issues and fertility preservation, creates a Maternal Health Center in the District, and mandates two hours of cultural competence CME for health care providers.
MSDC position: We oppose the bill without changes due to inclusion of mandatory CME and some of the definitions in the bill being medically questionable.
Current status: The bill had a hearing in the Committee on Health in December, with MSDC member Dr. Sara Imershein testifying for MSDC and ACOG.