WALLY HERGER: “Maintaining incentives for charitable giving is especially important in tough economic times.”

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.

I am very disappointed with the lack of leadership and interest in this issue at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

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.