Health Equity
Medicaid Enrollment Touches 39% of the Residents of The District of Columbia; DC’s 70/30 FMAP is Vital for the Maintenance of Health & Human Services
A reduction in the District’s FMAP would not lead to long-term government savings and would have a ripple effect throughout the entire health system in the DMV, crippling access to care for not only Medicaid beneficiaries but also all those who live, work, and visit the District of Columbia, including members of Congress and their staffs.
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Why does DC receive an Enhanced FMAP Rate?
The DC FMAP rate of 70% established by the Revitalization Act resulted from bipartisan analysis, discussion, and negotiation by Congressional leadership aiming to balance fairness with the District’s restricted ability to generate revenue. Congress recognized that the District of Columbia faces unique financial challenges due to its non-state status and the significant amount of federally-owned land within its boundaries. The District is unable to tax non-residents’ earnings, so these workers pay no taxes to support the infrastructure and services, such as roads, public safety and emergency services that they benefit from in the District. The District is also unable to tax up to 40% of the real property within its borders due to statutory restrictions.
Why are we concerned about DC's FMAP now?
Members of Congress have proposed reducing the DC FMAP to the statutory minimum for all other states, which is currently 50% (but could be reduced even more). Such a change would impact every physician and every practice, regardless of type, location, and payers contracted. Even practices who take no insurance will not be able to send patients for specialist care, hospital admissions, or other types of care.
What can MSDC members do?
- If you know a member of Congress or staffer, reach out to them and share how DC cuts will hurt your patients.
- Share your relationships and outreach with hay@msdc.org so we can help coordinate advocacy efforts.
- Email hay@msdc.org if you would like to be paired with a physician member of Congress office and trained by MSDC staff on how to reach out.
Resources
- DC FMAP cut fact sheet
- California Medical Association fact sheet on Medicaid cuts
- MSDC and healthcare association letter to Congress arguing against DC FMAP changes.
- MSDC original story on Medicaid changes.
News, Statements, and Testimony on Health Equity Issues
MSDC Board Charts Bold Course for 2026 and Beyond
The Medical Society of the District of Columbia (MSDC) Board of Directors convened on December 8, 2025, for a dynamic meeting that underscored the organization’s commitment to growth, advocacy, and physician wellbeing. With all members in attendance, the Board tackled key decisions that will shape the Society’s future and strengthen its role as the leading resource for physicians practicing in the District.
Leadership Updates and New Appointments
In a unanimous vote, Dr. Kirstiaan Nevin was selected to fill an At-Large Board vacancy. The Board also elected its 2026 officers, including Dr. Raymond Tu as Chair, Dr. Susanne Bathgate as Treasurer, and Dr. Nevin as Secretary. These leaders will guide MSDC through an ambitious year focused on strategic growth and member engagement.
Strategic Priorities: Growth, Advocacy, and Physician Support
The meeting highlighted MSDC’s progress on its strategic objectives. The Board reviewed data from the 2025 Annual Meeting and a decade of historical trends, setting the stage for an exciting annual meeting in 2026. Advocacy remains front and center, with the Federal Policy Task Force scheduled to meet later this week to advance MSDC’s voice on critical healthcare issues.
Commitment to Physician Wellbeing
MSDC reaffirmed its dedication to physician health through leadership appointments to key committees, including the Physician Health Committee and Wellbeing Committee. These efforts reflect MSDC’s ongoing mission to support the personal and professional wellbeing of its members.
Looking Ahead
The Board expressed gratitude for the accomplishments of 2025 and enthusiasm for the year ahead. With a refreshed leadership team and a clear strategic vision, MSDC is poised to expand its impact, strengthen advocacy, and deliver unparalleled resources for physicians in the District. The next Board meeting is scheduled for February 9, 2026—marking the beginning of what promises to be an exciting year for the Society and its members.
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