MMA Files "Friendly" Brief in Avera Marshall Appeal

On Feb. 6, the MMA along with the AMA and several other physician groups filed a friend-of-the-court brief (also known as an amicus brief) with the Minnesota Court of Appeals in the case of Avera Marshall Medical Center Staff vs. Avera Marshall Regional Medical Center.

Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Kill SGR

In early February, Rep. Allyson Schwartz (D-Pennsylvania) and Rep. Joe Heck (R-Nevada) reintroduced the Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act (HR 574) that would eliminate Medicare's sustainable growth rate formula.

Tanning Bill That Prohibits Use By Minors Introduced in House

A new bill that would prohibit the use of tanning beds by those under the age of 18 has been introduced at the Capitol.

Bills Move Forward to Grant APRNs Independence

Companion bills that would allow advanced practice registered nurses the authority for complete independent practice are working their way through the House and Senate.

MMA Opposes Cosmetic Procedure Tax Bill

Legislation that would tax certain cosmetic surgery procedures has been introduced in the House. The bill, being referred to as "BoTax," would tax medical procedures that improve a patient's appearance but doesn't necessarily promote his or her health.

MMA Launches New Podcast

In an effort to engage and inform Minnesota physicians on timely topics, the MMA has launched a new podcast on its webpage and in iTunes. The first series of podcasts cover the MMA's legislative priorities for 2013.

Minnesota Medicine