TSGE Advocacy Update
June 2017

 

With the close of the regular session TSGE, on behalf of its members, worked to pass two priority bills that directly impacted gastroenterology.  Both were recently signed into law by Governor Abbott.

First, TSGE helped pass SB1148. This bill prohibits certain entities from using Maintenance of Certification (MOC) against our specialty and others for the condition of licensure, privileges or credentialing.  Your grassroots efforts played a large role in getting this bill passed.

Second, TSGE helped with the passage of legislation that brings greater transparency to the practice known as Step Therapy or “fail-first.” These “step therapy” protocols put barriers between physicians and patients and affect our ability to prescribe appropriate medications for our patients.

TSGE continues to actively seek a seat at the table within the larger House of Medicine and is constantly looking to broaden its coalition efforts to improve the delivery of healthcare. Keep up your grassroots efforts.  Meet your legislators!  More to come after the special session.