What a year we had; 2013 was filled with great events, new beginnings and progress on many of the important issues that impact physicians' practices every day.
Thank you for being a part of the MMA. We are only as strong as our members. Without you, we would not be able to effectively champion the medical profession in Minnesota.
We accomplished many things this past year - our efforts at the state Capitol resulted in increased access to health care coverage through the expansion of Medical Assistance and an increase to the tobacco tax which has already had an effect on tobacco consumption in Minnesota.
The MMA also hosted a series of forums on prescription opioids, organized a summit on the primary care physician workforce shortage and is putting changes into place that will lead to a more inclusive, engaging Annual Meeting in 2014 and beyond.
We have an interesting road ahead. Our legislative team anticipates a fast-paced session. We will continue to advocate for physician-led team-based care to address the Advanced Practice Registered Nurses' drive to expand their scope of practice. We will also craft regulatory legislation on e-cigarettes and work to improve the state's Prescription Monitoring Program in our fight against prescription opioid misuse. In addition, we have a full slate of special events planned including our new policy council, policy forums, and listening sessions with physicians and clinics across the state.
We look forward to another year working on behalf of the physicians of Minnesota.
Robert Meiches, M.D.
MMA CEO
