12/19/2023

Thank You for Your Support in 2023!

We're looking forward to 2024...

I want to thank every OSMA member for their support and for being a passionate advocate for our profession. During the past year, OSMA staff and leadership were involved in a wide variety of activities that I hope have benefitted every physician in Ohio—and will continue to do so. 2023 highlights include: 

• Cut the Red Tape – Patient Care Can’t Wait
  In the first quarter of 2023, we introduced our campaign to reform prior authorization in Ohio. The first part of the campaign was the introduction of House Bill 130 at the end of March. Sponsored by Representative Kevin Miller (R-Newark) the bill creates a prior authorization gold card program for Ohio physicians. The bill has received several hearings in the House and we hope to pass it out of the chamber in early 2024.
  
  
• Medicaid Physician Reimbursement Increase
  At the end of the second quarter, our number one priority in the state budget was signed into law, a significant increase in Medicaid reimbursement for physicians. Starting in 2024, most codes in the Medicaid fee schedule will increase by 5% or more. This will result in over $400 million in new revenue for Ohio physicians. While still not sufficient, this increase will benefit physician practices and patient access.
  
  
• The Disposable Exhibit
  In September, OSMA was honored to partner with Disappearing Doctors to cohost an exhibit, The Disposables, honoring physicians who have been lost to suicide over the last several years. We heard from family members, physicians and government officials about why and how we can collectively address the issues causing physician burnout and the stigma associated with mental health. As part of the event, the medical board announced sweeping changes to mental health questions on the medical licensure application that makes Ohio one of the leaders in the country. In addition to our mental health assessment and check-up service, wellbeingcare.org, these regulatory changes are another example of our commitment to improving physician well-being.
  
  

We look forward to continuing this important work in 2024.
Wishing you all a healthy and happy holiday season and New Year!

Thank you for your membership,

Eric Drobny, MD
OSMA President

 

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