Society of Dermatology Physician Associates Urges Action to Support Step-Therapy Reform Bill S.1267-A in New York
ALEXANDRIA, VA, December 17, 2024—The Society of Dermatology Physician Associates (SDPA) is calling on all dermatology PAs and PAs to join us in an urgent effort to improve patient care in New York. The state legislature has passed the step-therapy reform bill S.1267-A, which now awaits Governor Kathy Hochul’s signature before the December 24th deadline.
S.1267-A addresses the harmful effects of “fail-first” step-therapy policies that require patients to try alternative treatments before insurers approve access to the originally prescribed medications. These policies often lead to treatment abandonment, causing significant harm to patients' physical and mental well-being.
Under S.1267-A, insurers would be required to implement protocols that accept attestations submitted by the patient’s healthcare professional regarding any previously failed treatments. This reform is a critical step in protecting patients' access to timely and appropriate care.
“Step-therapy policies delay effective treatment, putting unnecessary barriers between patients and the care they need,” said Krista Bower, SDPA CEO and Executive Director. “By signing S.1267-A into law, Governor Hochul has the opportunity to prioritize patients’ health and empower medical professionals to make the best treatment decisions.”
SDPA urges all supporters and advocates to take action by sending a letter to Governor Hochul, encouraging her to sign S.1267-A into law.
To learn more and take action, visit: [Legislative Action - SDPA]
Together, we can ensure patients receive the care they deserve without unnecessary delays.
About SDPA
The Society of Dermatology Physician Associates (SDPA) is a 501(c)(6) non-profit professional organization composed of members who provide dermatologic care or have an interest in the medical specialty of dermatology. A mission-focused membership organization, SDPA advances the DermPA™ profession through knowledge, advocacy, leadership, and engagement. Founded in 1994, the SDPA currently has over 4,750 members making it the largest constituent specialty organization of the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA).
For more information on SDPA or National PA Week, visit dermpa.org or follow the SDPA on Facebook, Twitter (@dermPA), Instagram (@derm_pa), and LinkedIn.
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Media Contact:
Jordan Snelson
Vice President of Public Relations & Marketing
Society of Dermatology Physician Associates
E-mail: jsnelson@dermpa.org
Cell: 303-332-4546
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