After years of persistence, partnership, and advocacy, I am so proud and excited that prior authorization reform has finally passed the Kentucky General Assembly. This achievement marks a significant milestone not only for the KMA, but for physicians and patients across the Commonwealth.
For more than five years, KMA has worked to relieve the challenges posed by prior authorization, which include delays in care, administrative burden, and the growing strain on physician practices. House Bill 176 represents meaningful progress toward addressing these issues through increasing transparency, streamlining the processes, and creating a pathway for prior authorization exemptions for physicians who consistently meet evidence-based standards. These reforms will help ensure that medical decision-making remains with physicians and their patients, while reducing unnecessary barriers to timely care.
This success is a direct reflection of the commitment and engagement of KMA members across the state. Physicians took time away from their practices to share their stories, meet with legislators, and advocate for change. Whether through Physicians’ Day at the Capitol, grassroots outreach, or ongoing communication with policymakers, your voices were key to this success. This was truly a member-driven effort, and it underscores the power of organized medicine when we work together with a common purpose.
This work is part of a broader commitment by KMA to improve the health of Kentuckians, not only through advocacy, but also through education and public engagement. Our “Small STEPS, Big Impact” campaign reflects that mission as well, focusing on practical, achievable steps patients can take to improve their health. The STEPS campaign continues to demonstrate measurable impact, with our February digital ad campaign on heart health generating more than 2.5 million impressions statewide, and our recent public service announcement during the 2026 NCAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments reaching more than 82,000 individual Kentuckians. These results highlight the power of physician-led messaging and the importance of meeting our patients where they are.
While HB 176 helps remove barriers within the healthcare system, STEPS empowers patients and physicians alike to make meaningful progress outside of it. Together, these efforts represent a comprehensive approach to improving health outcomes across our state: pairing policy change with public education. Both are essential, and both depend on the continued leadership and involvement of our members.
This moment is worth celebrating. It reflects the strength of our membership, the importance of physician leadership, and the impact we can have when we align advocacy and education. Thank you for your continued commitment to KMA and to the patients we serve. Together, through both policy and practice, we are making a lasting difference in the health of Kentuckians.