The Maryland State Medical Society presented strategies to allow state medical societies to diversify their income as dues alone can no longer support these organizations .
In closing , I would like to mention policy that was adopted this session that might interest physicians in WV .
• Policy was adopted to support harm reduction strategies .
• The AMA supports the elimination of non-compete clauses in contracts for physicians who are employed .
• AMA policy supports increasing gender-affirming care access .
• Safety and efficacy of Kratom should be determined through research and clinical trials . Kratom should be evaluated by the appropriate regulatory entities for its appropriateness for over-the-counter sale and oversight by way of the Controlled Substance Act before it can be marketed , purchased , or prescribed .
• The Council on Science & Public Health report 1 opposes the scheduling of gabapentin .
• Substance abuse history should be part of medical history , not social history .
• The AMA will work with medical liability insurers and care facilities to discourage the termination of liability coverage or clinical privileges of any physician charged with a crime arising from the provision of evidence-based healthcare . There is a need for physician protection against consequences when practicing in the ever-changing legal landscape surrounding abortion .
• AMA policy supports improved naloxone access for students so they are not penalized for having it in their possession while in school .
Finally , President Costello gave excellent testimony on Board of Trustees report 17 asking for an update on loss of insurance coverage and uninsurance rates following the return to regular Medicaid redetermination and the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency . This Medicaid unwinding / redetermination has affected hundreds , if not thousands , of patients in WV . I encourage WVSMA members to inquire about membership in the AMA through the WVSMA office in Charleston . The number is 304-925-0342 . The WVSMA and delegation members thank you in advance for your support .
Image : Left to right : Lisa M . Costello , MD , MPH , FAAP , Joseph B . Selby , MD , and Hoyt J . Burdick , MD .
West Virginia Medical Journal • September 2023 • 13