Opioid Policies

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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 President Gives Advice to Council on Post-Pandemic Health Issues

May 5, 2023, 08:34 AM by MSDC Staff
Dr. Bathgate listed for the Committee on Health a number of issues to take note of as the public health emergency winds down.

MSDC President Dr. Susanne Bathgate testified before the Committee on Health Thursday about issues to watch for as COVID emergency measures end.

The roundtable explored what issues the Council needed to be aware of as federal and local public health emergency measures ended. Dr. Bathgate spoke on a panel with representatives of the DC Hospital Association, DC Primary Care Association, and Long Term Care Coalition.

Dr. Bathgate's comments focused on three areas: workforce, telework, and social determinants of health. Among the areas she highlighted to the Council were:

  • The need to support small and independent practices as part of the DC healthcare infrastructure.
  • Looking at impediments to practice like onerous medical liability and prior authorization requirements.
  • How telework and office vacancies impact DC practices.
  • The need for a robust social safety network focused on culturally competent care, healthier lifestyles, and whole-person medicine.
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Sample of Legislation MSDC Tracked on Opioid and Prescription Policy

 

Access to Biosimilars Amendment Act (B23-430)

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.

Opioid Labeling Amendment Act (B23-535)

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.

Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Insurance Discrimination Amendment Act (B23-36)

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.