Top Stories

MMA Legislative Team Has Active Week with Health Priorities

Several of the issues that are top priorities for the MMA were discussed at the state Legislature this week including the advanced practice registered nurses' desire to practice independently, the prohibition of tanning device use by minors, the restoration of the state's newborn screening program and the broader use of the all-payer claims database.

Forum Physicians Say More Studies Needed on Medical Marijuana

Two-thirds of the physicians attending an MMA policy forum on medical marijuana do not support the medical marijuana bill before the state Legislature. The event was held in Eagan on March 4, the same day a House committee heard public testimony on the topic and approved the bill. The bill now moves on to the House Government Operations committee.

MMA Adds Its Name to SGR Repeal Plea to Congress

The MMA has signed onto an AMA-penned letter to Congressional leaders asking for a repeal of the flawed Medicare Sustainable Growth Rate formula. Minnesota physicians are asked to call their Congress member (800-833-6354) and encourage them to support repealing the bill (H.R. 4015/S. 2000). You also can email them via the Fix Medicare Now campaign site.

Physicians Needed on State Boards

The Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State is looking for physicians to serve on two state review boards. All applications are due March 25.

Diabetes Pilot Project Seeks Physician Participation

The AMA and the YMCA of the Greater Twin Cities are teaming up to help metro-area physicians and their pre-diabetic patients.

Video Provides Tips on How to Talk to Legislators

An MMA-produced video informing members how to interact with lawmakers is now available online. The 8-minute video features members Lisa Mattson, M.D., Will Nicholson, M.D., and the MMA's legislative team. It provides a great foundation for members who will be attending Day at the Capitol or who plan to meet with legislators on their own.

Save the Date: June 5 Policy Forum on Health Disparities

Minnesota Health Commissioner Edward Ehlinger, M.D., will be a guest speaker at an MMA policy forum on health disparities on June 5 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the Wilder Center in St. Paul. Watch future issues of MMA News Now for more details.

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Events

March 13 - Day at the Capitol
June 5 - Health Disparities Policy Forum
Sept 19 -20 - MMA Annual Meeting (Brainerd)