Secured Increase in Medicare Payments:  Worked on Long-term Solution

As a result of the combined efforts of organized medicine, a proposed 4.4 percent decrease in reimbursements to physicians was stopped, and a 1.6 percent increase was implemented.  As a result, the AMA estimated that physicians in the District would receive an additional $29 million, or approximately $2,400 more per physician.   MSDC will continue to work with the AMA on a permanent fix to the Medicare formula.

Outlined How New Medicare Bill Will Impact Physicians
The Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003, signed into law in December 2003, contains provisions that will have a profound effect on physicians.  MSDC educated members on how the bill will impact them and their patients.

Reminded Members of Medicare Money Available for Physicians Practicing in Underserved Areas
MSDC made sure its members knew that there is Medicare money available to physicians who practice in one of the District's federally designated Health Professional Shortage Areas.

Maintained Productive Dialog with Medicare and Medicaid Representatives
MSDC representatives participated on Medicare and Medicaid advisory committees throughout the year to make sure physician concerns were addressed and suggestions were considered.