The AOA continues to work closely with state partners and engage on key legislative and educational efforts that impact osteopathic physicians and their patients. Below are recent updates from across the country:
Tennessee
In Tennessee, lawmakers are considering House Bill 2619, legislation aimed at addressing insurer downcoding practices, where health plans reduce or alter billed services, often without adequate clinical justification, resulting in lower reimbursement for physicians. These practices can create significant administrative burden and undermine the accuracy of physician payment.
House Bill 2619 would prohibit health plans from using downcoding in a way that prevents physicians from being reimbursed for the full value of services provided, while also establishing a clear review and appeals process for disputed claims. The legislation further seeks to improve transparency and fairness in insurer-provider relationships, including requirements for advance notice of contract changes and safeguards around the use of artificial intelligence in claims review.
The AOA has formally engaged on this issue by submitting a letter to Tennessee lawmakers in support of policies that address inappropriate downcoding and protect physician reimbursement. We will continue advocating on behalf of osteopathic physicians to ensure fair payment, reduce administrative burden and preserve physician autonomy as this legislation moves forward.
Oklahoma
The AOA recently participated in the Navigating Life After Residency conference hosted by Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, engaging with residents as they prepare to transition into practice. As part of the program, AOA led a session on the power of physician advocacy, emphasizing the importance of having a “seat at the table” to help shape healthcare policy, protect the physician-patient relationship and advance patient-centered care.
This engagement reflects AOA’s continued commitment to equipping the next generation of osteopathic physicians with the tools and knowledge needed to advocate effectively for their profession and their patients from day one.
Michigan
The AOA recently partnered with the Michigan Osteopathic Association (MOA) in response to movement on House Bill 5313 in the Michigan Legislature. The bill includes a provision that would reduce continuing medical education (CME) requirements for osteopathic physicians.
AOA and MOA are working together to educate lawmakers on the importance of maintaining strong physician-led standards. Michigan already has a robust physician workforce pipeline, and stakeholders have emphasized that modern CME requirements are flexible, accessible and critical to ensuring high-quality patient care in an evolving healthcare landscape.
The AOA will continue to collaborate with state partners and monitor the bill’s progress as it advances through the legislative process.