[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 156 (Tuesday, October 16, 2007)]
[House]
[Page H11554]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HEALTH CARE CHOICE FOR FAMILIES

  (Mr. BOUSTANY asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. BOUSTANY. Madam Speaker, I am pleased that a report by AARP 
acknowledged consumer-directed health plans often provide more freedom 
of choice, lower premiums while giving consumers more control over 
their health care. This year I introduced H.R. 2639 to expand and 
improve coverage under these patient-centered plans. Public and private 
sector leaders must do more to empower patients with convenient, 
reliable information on cost and quality so consumers can purchase 
better care at a lower cost.
  Recent reports contend that health care plans haven't done enough in 
this area. These criticisms underscore the need to quickly build on 
gains we have made in health care transparency. Secretary Leavitt has 
laid important ground work in this area.
  H.R. 2639, coupled with better information for patients, will improve 
access, lower costs and improve quality of health care. I urge my 
colleagues to cosponsor this bill.

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