The MSMS Advocacy Division works to ensure the voice of Michigan physicians is at the forefront when legislators, regulators, and insurers are considering actions that impact the profession, the physician-patient relationship, and the ability to deliver high quality health care. Each month we will be highlighting some of the previous month’s activities that have kept MSMS staff working hard on your behalf. Below are highlights from December 2024.

1. Coordinated a successful grassroots and multi-partner advocacy campaign in opposition to medical liability reforms (HBs 6085-6086 and SBs 1158-1159 ). At the conclusion of the lame duck session, neither the House nor the Senate took a vote on the bills. If they are to be considered in the future, they will need to be reintroduced. MSMS is grateful to all of the physicians who contacted their legislators in opposition.
2. Submitted public comments on proposed updates to the Workers’ Compensation Health Care Services Rule (Rule Set 2024-22 LE). Although the proposal includes a slight fee increase, which is appreciated, MSMS proposed that the amount be increased to more closely reflect the rate of health care inflation over the past five years. Our comments also noted that a fee schedule at reimbursement rates for physicians and other practitioners near 140 percent of Medicare payments are neither reasonable nor adequate. 
3. Supported HB 5178 (allows for syringe service programs) and HB 6046 (allows for Medicaid reimbursement for community violence intervention programs) which were taken up by their respective committees. HB 6046 was passed by both Chambers and is currently awaiting transfer to the Governor for her signature. 
4. Met with representatives from HAP, BCBSM, and Michigan Medicaid on varied issues of interest and concern to physicians.