Dr. Lucas-Fehm Advocates at the Capitol: Tackling Private Equity in Health Care

This week, PAMED President Dr. Lucas-Fehm joined our legislative team at the state Capitol to address concerns about private equity in health care. She met with Representative Frank Burns, Chair of the House Professional Licensure Committee; Representative Dan Frankel, Chair of the House Health Committee; Speaker of the House Joanna McClinton; and Representative Arvind Venkat, MD. 

Discover more about Dr. Lucas-Fehm's presidential initiative and her efforts to address the pressing issue of private equity in health care.

President Speaks at Committee Hearing about Private Equity

In addition to meeting with legislators, Dr. Lynn Lucas-Fehm spoke at the Senate Democratic Policy Committee hearing on the impact of hospital closures, particularly Crozer Health, and private equity in health care. The hearing was held at Neumann University with other medical professionals and key stakeholders in Pennsylvania. The committee held the hearing to examine the impact of hospital closures in Pennsylvania, focusing on potential declines in public health, economic growth, and community services. 

Take Action on Medicare!

On January 1, physicians received another 2.83% payment cut, marking the fifth consecutive year that Medicare physician payment has been cut. Recently, Congress had an opportunity to address this issue through its latest spending package. However, the decision not to reverse the cuts has raised concerns about the viability of physician practices and the potential impact on access to care for 66 million Medicare patients.

Contact your members of Congress and urge them to pass the "Medicare Patient Access and Practice Stabilization Act" (H.R. 879)

Protect Medicaid Funding

Additionally, reach out to your legislators today and demand that they protect Medicaid funding! These cuts could dramatically impact the lives of millions of our country’s most vulnerable populations – children, pregnant women, seniors and low-income families – many who rely on Medicaid for essential care. Medicaid provides not only healthcare but also economic security, especially in rural and underserved areas. 

Invitation to Statewide Provider Call Regarding Measles

The Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) will be holding a statewide provider update call regarding the current Measles situation on Monday, March 24th from 1:00-2:00 p.m. The call will include updates and Q&A time with staff from DOH’s Bureau of Epidemiology, Bureau of Laboratories, and Bureau of Immunizations.

Recognizing Former PAMED Member for Women’s History Month!

Audrey Evans, MD, became the first Chief of the Division of Oncology at CHOP and was the co-founder of the Ronald McDonald House. She was also a recipient of PAMED’s Distinguished Service Award in 2014. On March 28, a movie about her life titled “Audrey’s Children” will be released in theaters nationwide. We’re honored to help spotlight her legacy and highlight her inspiring journey!

Senior Physician Caucus: Virtual Meeting and Leadership Roles

Join the Senior Physician Caucus for its upcoming virtual meeting on April 3 at 7 p.m. The meeting will cover elections for caucus leadership positions, as well as updates from PAMED regarding licensing requirements and inquiries about volunteer or part-time work during retirement.

Thinking about stepping into a leadership role? There’s still time to get involved! Physicians who are interested in serving as leaders in the Caucus are invited to complete the nomination form. The deadline for submissions has been extended to March 24.

Be Heard! Member Feedback on Potential PAMED Policy

At the 2024 Pennsylvania Medical Society House of Delegates several resolutions were referred back to the PAMED Board of Trustees for decision or study. PAMED Members can provide feedback, which will be considered official testimony, on each item. Topic for the May Board Meeting:

• Resolution 24-201: Medical Society Consortium on Climate and Health

Search for the resolution that interests you and click on the "Provide Feedback" button. Your feedback will be shared with Board members when addressing this topic. Make your voice heard!

Thinking of resolutions for 2025 HOD? Resolutions are open until July 1!

Department of Health Medical Care Availability and Reduction of Error (MCARE) Act Surcharge

Medicare Telehealth Coverage Expansion Update

Business Ownership Federal Filing Requirements Again on Hold

Measles Guidance for Local Identification and Travel

Department of Human Services Payments to Nonpublic and County Nursing Facilities; Final Rates for State Fiscal Year 2024-2025

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