The House and Senate Health Policy Committees were active this week. They addressed several bills of interest to the Michigan State Medical Society (MSMS) and physicians. Although there was no additional movement on nurse practitioner independent practice legislation this week, it’s critical for physicians to keep calling, emailing, and meeting with their legislators. Physician-led care teams, not siloed care, is the model that best serves patients in achieving desirable health outcomes.
Testimony Taken on Physician Mental Health Protections
The House Health Policy Committee met this week to take testimony on key legislation affecting physician wellness, mental health systems, and Michigan’s healthcare infrastructure. An MSMS-supported bill, House Bill 4277, which would protect physicians’ right to seek mental health care without fear of professional repercussions, received a first hearing.
Brittany Tayler, MD, a Flint-based internist and pediatrician and board member of the Michigan State Medical Society (MSMS), testified in support of the bill, emphasizing the emotional burden physicians carry and the chilling effect that outdated mental health disclosure policies can have on help-seeking behavior.
“Physicians in Michigan face one of the highest risks of burnout and depression in any profession,” Doctor Tayler said. “They deserve to feel safe when accessing care—without fear it will later be used against them.”
Stefanie Simmons, MD, Chief Medical Officer of the Dr. Lorna Breen Heroes’ Foundation, echoed that sentiment, praising Michigan’s current licensure practices for respecting physician privacy, but warning that administrative rules can shift without warning.
“Michigan is ahead of the curve—but only as long as current practices remain in place,” said Doctor Simmons. “HB 4277 ensures that physicians are protected not just today, but into the future.”
No vote was taken on the bill, which will likely be considered at a future meeting.
Committee Approves Health Data and Insurance Bills
The committee also advanced two bills for which MSMS has previously testified in support -- HB 4037 and HB 4038. These would establish standards for operating a health information exchange as a certified health data utility, enhancing patient data sharing, privacy, and coordination and modify the distribution of funds under the Insurance Provider Assessment Act to better reflect current healthcare system needs. The bills passed out of committee with bipartisan support.
No Vote on HB 4399: Nurse Practitioner Independent Practice Bill
The committee did not take a vote on HB 4399, which would allow nurse practitioners to practice independently of any physician oversight. MSMS vehemently opposes the bill, citing concerns about patient safety, care coordination, and the clinical complexity of autonomous practice.
Over the past three weeks, the committee has heard extensive testimony on the bill. MSMS, along with a broad coalition of healthcare professionals, succeeded in demonstrating the depth and complexity of the issue. MSMS is continuing its advocacy to highlight the risks of enacting the bill in its current form.
Although the bill was not approved this week, it is important to continue to contact legislators in opposition to its passage.
Senate Committee Advances Interstate Licensure Compact Bill
In related news, the Senate Health Policy Committee met on Tuesday and took up Senate Bill 303, which would re-enter Michigan into the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact. The Compact streamlines the process for physicians to obtain licensure across multiple states. Michigan’s previous participation in the Compact lapsed when its original authorizing statute expired before legislative renewal. The committee voted unanimously to approve SB 303. The bill now heads to the Senate floor, where it awaits further action.