[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 76 (Monday, May 18, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1182]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   INTRODUCTION OF THE RIGHT TO A SECOND MEDICAL OPINION ACT OF 2009

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                          HON. SUSAN A. DAVIS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 18, 2009

  Mrs. DAVIS of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today to introduce 
the Right to a Second Medical Opinion Act of 2009 to ensure the 
accessibility and coverage of medical second opinions.
  Imagine that your doctor tells you that you must undergo surgery that 
may threaten the use of a limb or leave you with a serious chronic 
condition. It is only natural to want a second opinion from another 
doctor when facing such a serious health event.
  Besides giving patients much-needed peace of mind, second opinions 
can benefit health plans by reducing the number of invasive procedures 
and result in better patient care through increased dialogue about 
treatment options. Some health care groups see the value in such 
requests and provide patients with a second opinion.
  When I was a member of the California State Assembly, I heard from a 
number of patients who experienced a glitch in their health care 
coverage. They noticed the absence of a clear process for obtaining 
medical second opinions. These patients, many struggling with 
challenging health conditions, had difficulties obtaining second 
opinions through their health plans.
  After meeting with patients, physicians and health groups, I authored 
a law in California that guarantees coverage of second opinions. The 
law in California was a good first step. Unfortunately, only a small 
number of states have similar laws on the books. It is time to extend 
second opinion coverage to health plans nationwide.
  Americans deserve quality and comprehensive health care coverage. I 
urge you, Madam Speaker, and all of my colleagues to pass this critical 
legislation into law.

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