Insurance Exchange Passes Another Hurdle, More Ahead

The bill that would create a Minnesota-based health insurance exchange (SF1) passed another hurdle on Jan. 30 as the Senate's Commerce Committee approved it 8 to 5 along party lines. The bill will move on to the Senate's Health and Human Services Policy Committee next week.

Legislation Introduced on Reclassifying Little Cigars

Two senators have introduced identical bills to reclassify "little cigars" as cigarettes. This, along with raising the tax rate on tobacco products, is a priority for the MMA in the 2013 session.

State Launches Informational Website on Exchange

Although the official launch of Minnesota's health insurance exchange is still nine months away, the State of Minnesota has unveiled a new website that will provide Minnesotans with the latest news on the exchange's progress.

Health Department Creates Flu Exchange Forum

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has started the Influenza Vaccine Exchange Forum to help health care providers who have exhausted their supply find additional vaccine.

Member Receives Minority Affairs Meritorious Award

On Jan. 25, the MMA Foundation presented its Minority Affairs Meritorious Service Award to Charles Crutchfield III, M.D.

2012 Resolution Tracker is Now Online

Every year, important issues are brought forward for discussion by the MMA's House of Delegates during the Annual Meeting. To follow the progress on resolutions that passed, check out the MMA's Resolution Tracker. It's an online tool that provides complete information about each resolution, its status and the steps the MMA is taking to implement the resolution. Information will be updated quarterly.

George Apostolou, M.D., (left) passes the LSMS's ceremonial sledgehammer to new president Jay Knuths, M.D.

Lake Superior CMS Installs New President

The Lake Superior Medical Society installed its 2013 officers on Jan. 24 at an informal gathering in downtown Duluth. The group carried on its tradition of "passing the sledgehammer" from Past President George Apostolou, M.D., to President Jay Knuths, M.D. About 25 physicians including MMA President Dan Maddox, M.D. and two MMA staff members attended the event. Maddox discussed governance changes, the MMA's plans for listening sessions and policy forums, the MMA's legislative priorities and the MMA Foundation.  

RFS members enjoy a little wine and networking at the Salem Glen Winery in Rochester.

RFS Group Meets for Wine and Fun

About 25 residents and fellows gathered on Jan. 22 at

the Salem Glen Winery in Rochester. Along with networking, the attendees heard a brief history of the winery, sampled six wines and enjoyed hors d'oeuvres.