RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA — The North Carolina Medical Society (NCMS) hosted its annual White Coat Day and Legislative Reception on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. It was a day of celebrations, as the NCMS also cheered the passage of the CARE FIRST Act.

NCMS Interim CEO Steve Keene says, “Yesterday was a great day to be a member of the North Carolina Medical Society. Our members advocated for patients across the state when they met with legislators to discuss ways to keep North Carolinians healthy and safe. NCMS has been urging members of the General Assembly to pass the CARE FIRST Act (HB 434)—a piece of legislation that reforms the prior authorization process—and we were pleased to see the House pass it during White Coat Day.” 

 NCMS has prioritized the CARE FIRST Act this legislative session.

This common-sense reform will require health insurers to: 

• Set minimum clinical standards for provision of care.
  Consult with the patient’s physician before refusing to cover medical care. 
• Set time frames and make timely decisions based on treatment urgency. 
• Promote continuity of care for patients. 
• Set limits on retrospective denials. 
• Hold health insurance companies responsible for the outcome of denied care.
   

“The physicians and medical professionals NCMS represent have told us prior authorization reform will make healthcare more efficient and effective,” said

 NCMS VP of Advocacy John Thompson. 

“We are thrilled to see yesterday’s success and will continue to advocate for NC’s patients and medical professionals at the General Assembly.” 

About the North Carolina Medical Society

The North Carolina Medical Society is the oldest professional member organization in North Carolina, representing physicians and physician assistants who practice in the state. Founded in 1849, the Society seeks to provide leadership in medicine by uniting, serving and representing physicians and their health care teams to enhance the health of North Carolinians.