Media Roundup: Mackinac Policy Conference

During the Mackinac Policy Conference MHA CEO Brian Peters sat down with leaders across the state to discuss advancing more collaborative, affordable and outcomes-driven care across Michigan.

Peters joined Paula Cunningham, Michael Patrick Shiels and Rep. Kathy Schmaltz (R-Jackson) on Michigan’s Big Show on iHeartRadio to discuss the important role family caregivers play as extensions of healthcare teams.

During the interview, Peters and Rep. Schmaltz discussed legislation she introduced to alleviate the financial burden family caregivers face through a tax credit. Peters emphasized that when caregivers are prepared and supported, patients are more likely to recover safely at home, which ultimately improves healthcare costs for everyone.

In addition, Peters joined the A Healthier Michigan podcast to discuss the shift away from the traditional fee-for-service reimbursement model, which pays for the volume of care provided, and moving toward value-based care that rewards better patient outcomes.

Throughout the interview, Peters stressed that meaningful progress requires stronger collaboration and shared accountability to improve patient care while making healthcare more affordable and accessible.

Members with questions regarding media requests should contact Elise Gonzales at the MHA.

Peters Discusses 340B Legislation on Michigan’s Big Show

MHA CEO Brian Peters

MHA CEO Brian Peters joined Michigan’s Big Show Dec. 16 to discuss the 340B drug pricing program and legislation that would have safeguarded the program.

Peters joined guest host Mel Seifert and discussed Senate Bill 1179, which would have protected cost savings from manufacturer encroachment and preserved access to affordable healthcare services in both urban and rural Michigan communities. The interview occurred days after the bill passed the Senate with broad bipartisan support following a 30-3 vote.

“The average cost of a prescription drug is now over $300,000 for a newly introduced prescription medication,” said Peters. “That is just remarkable and does affect all Michiganders in some way or form. We’re excited our state 340B legislation passed the state Senate on a very, very strong bipartisan vote.”

The bill did not see further action due to inactivity by the House during the week of Dec. 16.

Members with any questions regarding media requests should contact John Karasinski at the MHA.