Women's Health

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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 Mourns the Passing of Past President Dr. John Niles

Oct 9, 2026, 08:40 by MSDC Staff
Dr. Niles served as MSDC President in 1990 but more importantly was a voice for strong physician practices.


MSDC joins the entire medical community in the passing of Dr. John Niles. A celebration of his life will take place tomorrow at Howard University's College of Medicine.

Dr. Niles served as MSDC President in 1990. His tenure was marked by a passionate advocacy for private practice, medical malpractice reform, and women's health. For years, Dr. Niles was a frequent speaker and testifier before the District government warning of the collapse of private practice - especially in Ward 8 - and its impact on care for all residents, but especially the less fortunate. He was a child of the District, graduating from Spingarn High School and serving as the first Black chief of staff for Columbia Hospital for Women. 

"Dr. Niles' passing is a huge loss to our community," said MSDC President Dr. Klint Peebles. "Looking back on his statements and letters, he was a prophetic voice warning DC that failure to revise its malpractice laws and support physician practices would lead to many of the health disparities we continue to see today. He was a pioneer and his spirit of being unafraid to speak the truth should be an inspiration to all physicians."



Sample of Legislation MSDC Followed in Women's Health and Maternal Health

(See the whole list of bills here)

Postpartum Coverage Act of 2019 (B23-326)

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.

Strengthening Reproductive Health Protections Act (B23-434)

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.

Maternal Health Care Improvement and Expansion Act (B23-362)

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.