Davis presents at House interim studies

Posted on: 11/1/19


Patti Davis, OHA president, presented the hospital viewpoint in two interim studies held at the state Capitol earlier this week.

On Monday, Oct. 28, the House Insurance Committee held an interim study on surprise medical billing requested by Rep. Chris Sneed, Ft. Gibson, and Rep. Tammy Townley, Ardmore. Agreement among providers and insurance companies that the patient should be taken out of the middle of billing was almost unanimous by the presenters. Davis presented core principles for ending surprise billing. She also stated that a fixed rate for services should not be set in statute. The Oklahoma Insurance Department and the Association of Health Plans also gave compelling testimony on work done in both Oklahoma and other states to decrease surprise billing.

Also on Monday, the House Insurance Committee heard an interim study on rural health care requested by Rep. Sneed and Rep. Townley. Speakers addressed the needs to improve access to health care in rural Oklahoma. Davis testified on the financial strain of rural hospitals and offered solutions such as Medicaid expansion. She also presented workforce issues as being paramount in the rural health care access solution.  

“We would like to see enhanced funding for workforce to include physicians, nurses and others to make sure we have enough to do the jobs we are required to do today. We also know that these are good paying jobs and are a good driver for economic development,” said Davis. She also called for more collaboration with the Physician Manpower Training Commission in loan repayment to attract more medical professionals in rural areas. (Sandra Harrison)

Save the dates for OHA 2022 events

Posted on: 2/18/22


It’s a new year and a new lineup of important events for you and your staff. Don’t miss out on these opportunities to engage in advocacy, education and networking all year long. Mark your calendar now!

OHA Advocacy Day - Tuesday, April 5, Oklahoma History Center. Join us for our annual legislative day. We will begin with a member briefing at 3 p.m., followed by a legislative reception at 5 p.m. Watch for registration materials soon.

OHA-PAC Golf Tournament - Tuesday, June 21, Jimmie Austin Golf Club at OU, Norman. Time and details TBA.

OHA Health Care Leaders Forum - Tuesday, July 19 - Thursday, July 21, Shangri-La Resort, Grand Lake. Watch for registration soon!

OHA Connect 22 - Wednesday, Nov. 9 - Friday, Nov. 11, Oklahoma City Convention Center and Omni Hotel, downtown Oklahoma City. Plan now to attend OHA’s annual conference and exhibit hall. More details to come.

Details on these events and other upcoming education opportunities will be available on the OHA website.