Political Quotes

“today I am proud to support H.R. 6331, the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008. This legislation addresses issues within Medicare that have been too long ignored, including preventing the pending 10 percent payment reduction for, enhancing preventive and mental health benefits, improving and extending programs for low-income Medicare beneficiaries, and extending expiring provisions for rural providers. By addressing the critical issue of physician payment under Medicare through 2009, Congress will have the time to study and develop the systemic, sustainable reforms necessary to preserve patient access to physician services under Medicare. And the 18-month delay in implementation of the flawed competitive bidding program for Durable Medical Equipment, DMEPOS, allows Congress time to evaluate and improve this policy. I am heartened this legislation passed with such overwhelming bipartisan support, demonstrating that we can come together with thoughtful solutions that better the lives of Americans.”