Top Stories

MMA Holds Update on Medical Cannabis

Three physicians at the forefront of Minnesota's medical cannabis program answered questions about physicians' role in the program during a forum on the University of Minnesota campus Tuesday night. The program, "Cannabis Conversation," was cosponsored by the MMA and the Minnesota Department of Health's Office of Medical Cannabis. Read more here.

Physician Alert: Tax Scam Aimed at Doctors

For the second year in a row, tax scammers are targeting physicians and other health care providers. Reports of fraudulent federal income tax returns being filed using physician names, addresses and Social Security numbers have been made in Minnesota, Michigan and Missouri. Victims have been unable to file their taxes electronically because a return has already been filed. If you have been a victim of this scam, you can access tools on the IRS website or call 1-800-908-4490.

Legislative Session Reaches Midpoint

With the Legislature's version of halftime upon us, lawmakers have been spending the Easter/Passover break in their home districts. They will return to the Capitol on April 7, when much of the action will shift from the work of policy committees to that of setting a biennial budget. Although the MMA has weighed in on dozens of bills during the first months of the session, five of its priority issues have received particular attention.

Futurist Signed for 2015 Annual Conference

Futurist Ian Morrison is the first speaker signed on for this year's Annual Conference, which takes place Sept. 25-26 at the DoubleTree by Hilton in St. Louis Park. Read more here.

MMA Begins Leadership Nomination Process

The nomination process for MMA's second member-wide electronic election, for 2015-16 leadership positions, is now open. Nominations from members and component medical societies for available offices will be accepted through May 16. Read more here.

Grant Awarded to Reduce Disparities in End-of-Life Care

In an effort to close the disparities gap in end-of-life care, MN Community Measurement has awarded Honoring Choices Minnesota a grant to create several videos on advance care planning. Read more here.

Minnesota Named Second-Best State for Doctors

Minnesota was named the second-best state for doctors by WalletHub, a personal finance website. The ranking took into account 12 key metrics including income, earning potential, competition and characteristics of a state's patient population as well as issues related to the work environment such as state medical board penalties, malpractice payouts and the cost of malpractice insurance. Read more here.

Medical Student Section to Hold Spring Conference

Students from all three Minnesota medical schools are invited to the Minnesota Medical Association-Medical Student Section's spring conference and brewery tour April 11 on the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus.

It's Time to Renew Your MMA Membership

Your membership plays a key role in the MMA's ability to fight for the professional and practice needs of Minnesota physicians. See how the MMA is working for you and your colleagues. Join or renew your membership by contacting us at 612-362-3728 or enroll@mnmed.org.

Have You Been a Victim of Physician Identity Theft?

Minnesota Medicine is looking for physicians who have had their National Provider ID number, DEA number, medical license number, Social Security number or other private information compromised. If you are willing to share your story and tell how you resolved the situation, contact Kim Kiser by April 8.

Cultivate Your Creative Side

Do you have a story to tell? A photo you'd like to share? Then Minnesota Medicine is looking for you. Enter your essay, poem or short story in Minnesota Medicine's Medical Musings writing contest by May 4. Or enter the best photo you've taken in the annual photography contest by May 11. Winners will be featured in the July issue of the magazine. For more information and to enter, visit the Minnesota Medicine contest website.

Welcome to our 38 new, returning members

Please welcome 38 new and returning members to the MMA. This week we say hello to physicians from St. Paul, Bloomington, Wayzata, Duluth, Mora, Minneapolis, Rochester, Apple Valley, Stillwater and Bemidji. Each week we recognize new and returning members who are helping MMA stand up for physicians on issues that affect their practices and their patients. Thank you for your support. See our new and returning members. If you want to renew your membership, or join MMA, call 612-372-3728 or email us at enroll@mnmed.org.

Digital Rounds - The MMA Blog

Digital Rounds MMA's Blog Immediate Past President Cindy Firkins Smith, MD, is fed up with medication prior authorization. If you need to ask why just read her recent account of dealing with the frustrating, inefficient process and how her patient suffers because of it.