MMA President-Elect Cindy Firkins Smith, M.D., and President Dan Maddox, M.D., wait outside Sen. Amy Klobuchar's office in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 13. The MMA officials discussed SGR and other health care issues with staff from Minnesota's senior senator's office.

MMA Officials Meet with Congress Members in D.C.

MMA President Dan Maddox, M.D. and President-Elect Cindy Firkins Smith, M.D., were in Washington, D.C. this week to attend an AMA meeting discuss the sustainable growth rate and other health care issues with several members of Minnesota's Congressional delegation. 

Medical Assistance Bill Passes House and Senate

On the fast track to becoming law, the House and Senate passed legislation that expands Medical Assistance for those earning up to 138 percent of the federal poverty line as permitted by the Affordable Care Act.

Latest Tobacco Bill Would Raise Tax $1.50 per Pack

Another week at the Legislature, another bill is introduced proposing raising the tax on tobacco. The newest bill (HF 509), sponsored by Rep. Thomas Huntley (DFL-Duluth), proposes increasing the tax by $1.50 per pack.

Survey Says Physician Pay Dropped Sharply in 2012

A recent survey by Physicians Practice, a business publication for physicians, found that physician pay dropped by as much as 33 percent for existing patient visits in 2012. Meanwhile, pay for new patient visits increased slightly.

Value/Satisfaction Survey Coming Next Week

Physicians will have an opportunity to provide feedback on the MMA through the 2013 Value/Satisfaction Survey, which will be distributed via email next week. Your feedback is important in helping us understand which services are most important to our members and how we can improve. The survey will be sent to both members and nonmembers. This year, as added encouragement for members to complete the 11-question survey, we will draw for three $100 gift cards. Please watch for the survey and take a few minutes to let us know how you feel about MMA.

Visit the MMA at the MMGMA 2013 Winter Conference

Be sure to stop by the MMA booth when you are at the MMGMA's 2013 winter conference on March 5-6 at the St. Paul River Centre. We will be at #319; Member Advantage will be at #323. Member Advantage partners will be at the following booths: Innovative Office Solutions #316, AmeriPride #317, Medcare Products #318, Newman Long Term Care #320 and MyDisabilityPlans.com #321. For more information, go to the MMA News Now archives.