Legislative Priorities

The legislative priorities of the Indiana Academy of Family Physicians are recommended each year by the IAFP Commission on Legislation and approved by the Board of Directors.

Family Physician Shortage
Just at a time when America needs more family physicians we see fewer and fewer students choosing this specialty and family physicians leaving the workforce earlier. During the 2011 legislative session the IAFP is working to maintain the family medicine residency funding especially and advocates for higher Medicaid payments for family physicians. 

Scope of Practice
During the 2010 and 2011 General Assembly sessions non nurse midwives, physical therapists, and pharmacists have sought expansions. Family Physician scope has been threatened as well, in 2010 legislation was introduced which would have mandated hospital privileges for any physician who performs surgical procedures.

Smokefree Workplaces and Tobacco Taxation
The IAFP supports comprehensive and effective public policy measures that prevent and reduce smoking and other tobacco use in the state, including funding the Indiana Tobacco Prevention & Cessation Agency (ITPC) at the level recommended by the CDC; increasing the state tobacco taxes; and, eliminating secondhand smoke from all workplaces, including restaurants, bars and gaming facilities.