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!
DC represents well at AMA I-25
The MSDC American Medical Association delegation and "friends" were everywhere at the House of Delegates 2025 Interim meeting (I-25) this weekend at National Harbor. While this is not unusual - DC has always been an outsized player in HOD policy - this year's meeting saw DC people even more present with the meeting so close to home.
The DC delegation introduced one resolution and backstopped another that became AMA policy. Resolution 901 would align AMA policy with more precise science by differentiating between different types of ultra-processed foods. Generally the media and public assume all ultra-processed foods are bad for health, but there are some vegan and non-diary alternatives that fall into this definition. The resolution makes sure that soymilk is not treated the same as hot dogs in dietary guidelines. The second resolution establishes policy on fire risk standards for civilian and non-industrial clothing. The resolution points out the recent tragedies in New York and DC of people being lit on fire, and how fire-retardant clothing could have helped save their lives.
The meeting was not just resolutions, however. DC represented across the meeting in various events, including the DC/MedChi Maryland collaborations, Southeastern Delegation meetings, and the Organization of State Medical Association Presidents (OSMAP). Two of our Board members (Dr. Tu on CSAPH and Dr. Knight of CEJA) served on important committees for the meeting. Various other DC physicians attended coalition and section meetings.
The next AMA HOD meeting is in Chicago June 5-10, 2026.
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.
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