WALLY HERGER: “Republicans and Democrats alike have kicked the can down the road long enough.”

The issue of consolidation warrants this subcommittee's attention as all health care cost drivers need to be closely examined, especially in this challenging economic and budget environment.

Unfortunately, the Democrats' health law slashed payments to the Medicare Advantage program by more than $300 billion over the next 10 years to fund ObamaCare.

While I believe that market approaches hold great promise for improving the situation, my intent is to use the information we learn from this hearing as a starting point for further assessment of the consolidation issue.

Considering the extent of the fiscal challenges facing the Medicare program as well as our country, it is essential that Congress consider all available options.