Political Quotes

“I thank my colleague, Mr. Pitts. It is a pleasure to be working with him and with Mr. Pallone and Mr. Upton. This legislation, as Mr. Pitts indicated, is going to give some relief to communities, particularly rural communities, from the imposition of changes in how charges are made in competitive bidding processes that have a significant potential to make inaccessible durable medical equipment. I was a cosponsor, but the lead sponsor is here, Dr. Price, a good colleague and a really good doctor. Dr. Price, Legislator Price, came up with a pretty good bill that is going to help Georgia but also help rural Vermont, so I appreciate that. {time} 1745 The bottom line, the DME Competitive Bidding Program was created in 2003. It was aimed at a goal all of us have. It was trying to lower spending on durable medical equipment. It was well-intended, but it has had some serious consequences, especially for rural providers, like in Vermont, and I am sure parts of Georgia and other rural parts of the country. By the way, when we do something, it can have a good intention, it can even accomplish some of its goals, but I think it always makes sense for us on both sides to step back after there is some history-- this went in in 2003--and take a look, kick the tires. What are some of the improvements that we can make so that we get back to the original intention and don't do harm that is unnecessary?…”