Bill Nelson: “Mr. President, over the past few days of debate on this Patients' Bill of Rights, we have heard the many horror stories…”

“Mr. President, over the past few days of debate on this Patients' Bill of Rights, we have heard the many horror stories of what happens to people when HMOs put profits ahead of patients. We have heard of one man in a wheelchair whose HMO ordered his oxygen tanks removed from his house; we heard of a youngster whose brain tumor was missed because the HMO refused to allow the necessary test; and we heard of others pleading with their HMO to get coverage for critical procedures either for themselves or their families. These, unfortunately, are not isolated examples. They are happening every day all across this country which is why the people of America are demanding reform and why we are seeing the public surveys now showing support for this legislation to the tune of 81 percent in favor of this legislation. The people also realize the system is not working for the doctors either. Just last week, I learned of a doctor who is assessing his existing patients a $1,500 annual membership fee for the privilege of continuing their treatment. I find this outrageous and unethical, and it sets a bad precedent for the future of our health care industry.”