LEGISLATIVE
A central part of TMA’s advocacy mission is state-level government relations, and the advocacy team works with state lawmakers and other organizations to achieve members’ legislative priorities as defined by the Legislative Committee, Board of Trustees and House of Delegates. Our lobbyists review hundreds of bills each year to identify measures that promote or threaten good healthcare policies and then organize member physicians and organizations to help carry out TMA’s support or opposition.
Review some of the major legislative wins TMA has achieved on your behalf or in your defense.
Insurance Payment reform
An insurer should not be permitted to reduce payment for a properly submitted service based solely on an automated determination. Determinations should be based on the patient's medical record and an appropriate clinical review. TMA will introduce a bill to stop the practice of downcoding without a review of the medical record.
TennCare Payment Reform
TennCare ensures access to care for Tennessee’s most vulnerable, but current reimbursement rates fall well below the cost of providing care and make it financially difficult for physicians to participate. This is especially problematic in rural communities. TMA is seeking a long-term solution to improve reimbursement rates to keep practice doors open and protect patient access.
Protecting physician led care
All Tennesseans regardless of zip code deserve care led by a physician. It is essential that the most highly trained member of the healthcare team- the physician- is leading the team. TMA will fight for team-based care that allows Tennessee to use the skills of its entire health care workforce while preserving physician involvement in diagnosis and treatment.
Please send all press inquiries to communications@tnmed.org.
2026 Legislative Report Card
Review the results of TMA's advocacy efforts in 2026.
Click here.
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View summaries of TMA's work during past legislative sessions: