Physicians, Physicians-in-Training Advocate for Medicine at State Capitol

February 20, 2025

More than 150 physicians and physicians-in-training from across the state gathered at the Capitol on February 19 to advocate on behalf of medicine as part of Physicians' Day at the Capitol.   

Attendees heard from Sen. Alice Mann, MD, MPH, and met with legislators to discuss the MMA’s top legislative priorities: increasing Medical Assistance payments - Currently, MA reimburses at a rate of between 60 and 70% of Medicare, and only 30% of commercial payers; prohibiting formulary changes during a contract year by health plans and pharmacy benefit managers; funding the POLST (Provider Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment) registry that was recommended by the Minnesota Department of Health; continuing efforts to address physician wellness; and continuing coverage for audio-only telehealth services. 

MMA President Edwin Bogonko, MD, MBA, kicks off Physicians' Day at the  Capitol.

Following Mann’s keynote, Dave Renner, MMA’s director of advocacy, and Chad Fahning, MPP, MMA’s manager of state legislative affairs, reviewed the MMA’s top legislative priorities. Then, attendees proceeded to meetings with their legislators. Members shared information with them on the MMA’s priorities and other issues that were important to them and the health of their patients.     

“Today is about either establishing or strengthening relationships with your legislators,” said MMA President Edwin Bogonko, MD, MBA, who served as emcee for the event. “Your role is crucial in promoting legislation that is good for the patients you serve.”