Gus Bilirakis: “I rise in support of H.R. 1795, the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Engineering Establishment Act. This…”

“I rise in support of H.R. 1795, the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Engineering Establishment Act. This legislation, introduced by Representatives Richard Burr and Anna Eshoo, would establish a National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Engineering at the National Institutes of Health. Earlier this month, members of my Subcommittee heard testimony from three distinguished professors from Radiology departments throughout the country. They indicated that breakthroughs in imaging, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT), have revolutionized the practice of medicine in the past quarter century. However, these technologies are inadequate in diagnosing some diseases. The NIH itself has recognized the importance of this discipline by designating imaging as one of the top four research priorities at the National Cancer Institute. However, testimony indicates that NIH's focus on imaging research should be broadened beyond cancer. Representatives Burr and Eshoo have introduced this legislation to create an institute at NIH to focus on imaging research. This will create a climate that promotes discovery and innovation in imaging, as NIH has done in other fields of scientific discovery. By approving the legislation before us, we can move into an era of non-invasive medicine. I urge Members to support passage of H.R. 1795, the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Engineering Establishment Act.”