Update on our work in Montana

While forty six other states prepare to head into session, Montana is taking the chance to enjoy an uninterrupted ski season. 

Truthfully, that’s not actually what we do during the long interim period. Instead, it’s a combination of implementing past legislation, dealing with federal changes, and working on issues that can be addressed through regulation. This is where we are currently focused at a state level, working on implementing CERPs (cardiac emergency response plans) athletics through the Office of Public Instruction, and talking to the Department of Public Health and Human Services about covering self-monitored blood pressure cuffs through Medicaid. 

The long interim also provides us with a chance to listen to each others’ stories. We just added two new members to our State Advocacy Committee with a passion for sharing and gathering stories. Katie Wagner, PhD, recently shared her story of being a congenital heart disease survivor who had to advocate repeatedly for doctors to take her seriously. We also welcome Hanna Deutsch, DO, a hospitalist who listens to her patients, and is passionate about advocating for them based on the stories they share with her.