Pete Stark: “reducing medical errors is an important goal, and this legislation takes a small step in that direction. But don't be…”

“reducing medical errors is an important goal, and this legislation takes a small step in that direction. But don't be fooled by the rhetoric. While the legislation offers a glimmer of hope that action will be taken, it does nothing to actually prevent any future medical errors or improve patient safety. Unfortunately, the timing of the consideration of this bill is driven by crass political motives to provide cover for the anti-patient legislation that will be considered tomorrow. I personally think one of our goals should be to first do no harm, and I believe this bill accomplishes that. But it doesn't do much good either. Federal agencies, states, and the private sector are making strides in this area. But there are certain things that only Congress can do. The legislation before us is not the best example of what that role should be. This legislation reflects a tenuously and delicately crafted compromise that assures that information which is discoverable today will remain discoverable if this bill becomes law. While the bill creates a new federal privilege for the data created for this new voluntary reporting system, it does not erode a patient's right to access information that is currently available and would be available but for this new system. I am satisfied that--as currently written--it seems to accomplish that goal. But I am concerned about how it will be used and intend to keep an eye on it.”