At my first Advocacy Leadership Conference as a member of the ACR’s Insurance Subcommittee, I discovered the power of stories from the clinic and how lawmakers value clinicians’ input on healthcare legislation.
More than 70 rheumatologists and rheumatology health professionals convened in Washington, D.C., to advocate on behalf of legislation that would reduce patients’ out-of-pocket drug costs and help grow America’s healthcare workforce.
In response to ACR and provider concerns about administrative burden, CVS Caremark has issued a streamlined version of its prior authorization forms for many biologic drugs.
Practices that received Provider Relief Funds between April 10–June 30, 2020, and did not file a report may request to submit a late report and avoid having funds recouped.
The ACR is working with partners in several states to legislate against policies that require physicians to acquire provider-administered drugs through a preferred specialty pharmacy designated by a payer or pharmacy benefit manager.
The ISC has worked with CVS Caremark to revisit changes to its prior authorization forms that would have increased the administrative burden on practices, and patients with Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina may not have to worry about switching to a self-administered biologic.
As a fellow-in-training member of the ACR’s Government Affairs Committee, Kaitlyn Brittan, MD, found a sense of personal satisfaction and empowerment by having a voice through advocacy.
The ACR-supported Breen Act will provide resources for mental health services and programs for healthcare professionals to reduce burnout and prevent suicide.
Working with the AMA provides a megaphone to amplify rheumatology’s voice at both federal and state levels. This year is the AMA’s next five-year membership review. Join the AMA or renew your membership now to keep the ACR represented in AMA policy bodies.