Janice Schakowsky: “I am a strong supporter of stabilizing Medicare physicians' payments permanently. Short-term fixes create instability…”

“I am a strong supporter of stabilizing Medicare physicians' payments permanently. Short-term fixes create instability and uncertainty for physicians and patients. But if we don't act now, on June 1 our doctors are going to see their Medicare payments cut by over 20 percent, and I am simply not willing to allow that to happen, which is why I'm voting ``yes.'' This bill will ensure that doctors who see Medicare patients over the next 19 months will receive fair payments. It will ensure that senior citizens and persons with disabilities have access to their doctors. And it gives us time to permanently fix the flawed formula. It's not a perfect solution, but it is essential for the health and well-being of seniors and disabled persons on Medicare. I urge a ``yes'' vote.”