Retired Physicians who Volunteer

The Alabama State Senate voted unanimously to pass House Bill 346 which removes the 100 hour minimum service requirement for retired physicians who volunteer at free clinics. The legislation, which has been signed into law, is expected to increase participation in the Retired Senior Volunteer Program, allowing more retired doctors to provide care to underserved populations.

Health Insurance from Alfa

House Bill 477 by Rep. David Faulkner, R-Mountain Brook, has been signed into law. The bill allows the Alabama Farmers Federation to offer health coverage plans to its members.

The bill was opposed by over 30 organizations including March of Dimes, Women’s Foundation of Alabama, American Heart Association, and the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network. These opponents say lack of enforcement by the Department of Insurance will leave patients with nowhere to turn if their claims are wrongfully denied.

Sponsors of the bill say it will give Alfa members who earn too much to receive subsidies through the healthcare marketplace a chance at more affordable health premiums.