Al Franken actually said...

"Many hospitals are operating on smaller and smaller margins, and they need help to survive financially so they can serve their communities."

"I think that's the case. Hospitals are in a crunch and they have to be able to collect debt, and I think everyone agrees with that."

"But there is a conflict of interest that does arise clearly when hospitals perform in more illusory than real ways with regard to providing charitable care."

"We also promote, advocate and strive to protect the health, safety and right of the patients."