March 24, 2022
The MMA, along with several healthcare systems and specialty groups, has signed a letter supporting legislation that would prohibit the use of "white bagging."
The practice involves insurance companies forcing medications that are administered in a clinic to be purchased through an insurer's exclusive pharmacy of choice. The medications, specifically for one patient, are then sent to a physician's office or a hospital where they are administered to patients. This new practice is being used for chemotherapy medications, certain ophthalmologic medications, and other physician administered drugs. The practice adds unnecessary complexity to the physician/patient relationship, raises patient safety issues, and potential delays in patient care.
The required use of “white bagging” replaces the current system where a clinic has a supply of needed medications in stock that can be used to address the patient’s needs. When the insurer requires the drug to be ordered for the patient from their pharmacy, it limits the physician’s ability to adjust the medications as needed when treating the patient.
The bill (HF3280) is being carried in the House by Rep. Mike Freiberg, DFL-Golden Valley. It has not yet moved forward in the Senate.
October 9, 2025
The MMA is partnering with Hennepin Healthcare to offer an in-person session on “Supporting Patients, Families, and Professionals in the Aftermath of Crisis” on October 21 from 6 to 8 pm in Room RL110 at the HCMC Red Building, 730 South 8th Street, in Minneapolis.
October 9, 2025
The MMA, in partnership with the Wisconsin Medical Society, will lead a panel discussion titled "The Role of Medical and Professional Societies in Supporting Clinicians and Community Health" at the Transforming Community and Rural Healthcare 2025: Bold Innovation and Partnerships symposium, to be held on October 27-28, at the Mayo Civic Center in Rochester.
October 2, 2025
The federal government shutdown will affect the Minnesota healthcare system in several important ways.