Statement on House of Representatives Action on Patients' Bill of Rights Legislation

Today's action brings us an important step closer to ensuring that patients get the care they need and that HMOs are held accountable.

I appreciate the bold leadership and hard work of Speaker Hastert, Congressman Norwood, Congressman Fletcher, and others for their efforts to make patient protections a reality for all Americans after years of gridlock.

As this bill heads to the conference committee, I remain committed to extending the hand of cooperation to all who share a commitment to achieving real results for better health care for every American.