Patient Protections Should Improve Lives Not Create
Red Tape
(Washington, D.C.)-- Congress should focus on health care
reforms that make a real difference in patients lives, rather than
enacting laws that open up courts to health-related lawsuits and
increase health care costs, according to health industry
leaders.
Rep. Charles Norwoods (R-Ga.) latest patient protection bill is
merely a rehash of his overly prescriptive Patient Access to
Responsible Care Act from last year, said Pamela G. Bailey,
president of the Healthcare Leadership Council, in response to Rep.
Norwoods introduction of health legislation today. Provisions
such as those included in the congressman's bill would make coverage
more expensive, less available and would eliminate all flexibility
in the marketplace by stifling innovation and limiting choice.
Any legislation that imposes health care mandates is a threat to
the quality care Americans deserve, added Bailey. Dont be
fooled. Real patient protections are ensuring greater access
to care, more affordable care and the highest quality care.
HLC sees three major areas where Congress can accomplish these
goals Medicare reform, access for the uninsured
and medical records confidentiality legislation.
This Congress has a great opportunity to make a meaningful impact
on the lives of every American and enact true patient protections,
said Bailey. It should not get sidetracked with a divisive
battle over lawsuits and red tape.
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