The SDSMA supports physicians and patients through advocacy on critical issues.

    Immunizations


The SDSMA affirms the vital role of immunizations in protecting South Dakotans and preventing disease outbreaks. The association supports funding, education, and state requirements and opposes exemptions and any efforts to weaken current immunization policies. The SDSMA is concerned about decreasing immunization rates, which could negatively impact South Dakota in many ways and makes our communities vulnerable to preventable diseases like measles and whooping cough. This trend is exacerbated by misinformation and recent actions and proposals by politicians that seek to undermine decades of public health success. The SDSMA is committed to increasing proactive efforts and outreach in recognition that immunizations are important for the health and safety of all of our population.

    Restoring Trust in Healthcare

The U.S. healthcare system is in a crisis of trust, with Americans reporting decreased trust in physicians and the health care system, fueled by widespread misinformation online. The SDSMA is committed to regaining trust by empowering patients with knowledge and supporting increased clarity and transparency in healthcare. Do patients know the difference between a physician (MD/DO), a chiropractor, a psychologist, a physician assistant, and a podiatrist? Can patients discern if a health or wellness influencer on social media has legitimate credentials? The SDSMA believes it is important to employ a multifaceted approach that prioritizes strengthening individual patient-physician relationships and ensuring transparent communication. Crucially, physicians must take an active role as reliable, accessible sources of information. Physicians have committed to years of medical school and residency training in order to build connections with, treat and heal patients and every day aim to provide the highest quality of care.


    Pain Management & Substance Use Disorder


The problem of prescription drug abuse and its related health consequences is a significant public health problem.
The SDSMA is at the forefront on this issue by providing physicians with helpful, evidence-based guidelines for prescribing opiate analgesics to both effectively treat pain and minimize patient risk.  Learn More

   Dobbs Decision


The SDSMA supports physician and patient autonomy in the provision of evidence-based medical services. The SDSMA's position remains that an abortion is a personal health and medical decision to be made by a qualified physician and patient. SDSMA physician leadership and attorneys continue to monitor the legal situation.


  Physician Wellness

South Dakota physicians seeking support for their health and well-being now have a confidential and professional resource. The South Dakota Physician Well-Being Program is a responsive, high-quality program for physicians and residents that offers confidential, individualized support services and resources.  Learn More

    Telemedicine


The SDSMA advocates in support of physicians and practices in enhancing and expediting the implementation of telemedicine, so care can continue to be provided to those who need it most. 
Contact the SDSMA for details regarding the use of telemedicine in response to meeting the medical needs of patients to include information on Medicare, state, and third-party payer regulations.

South Dakota State Medical Association
2600 W 49th St Ste 100
Sioux Falls, SD 57105
Phone: 605.336.1965 | Fax: 605.274.3274

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