    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1997, Book II)]
    [November 20, 1997]
    [Pages 1621-1622]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Memorandum on the Health Care ``Consumer Bill of Rights and
    Responsibilities''
    November 20, 1997

    Memorandum for the Secretary of Defense, the Secretary of Labor, the
    Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of Veterans
    Affairs, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget

    Subject: The Health Care Consumer Bill of Rights and Responsibilities

        Last spring, when I appointed the members of the Advisory Commission
    on Consumer Protection and Quality in the Health Care Industry, I
    specifically charged them to develop a consumer bill of rights. This
    period of rapid change and experimentation in the way Americans receive
    and pay for their medical care holds the promise for improved quality,
    greater choice, and lower expense. At the same time, we must identify
    and protect certain fundamental rights of patients and their families so
    that, whatever health care delivery system they choose, they can obtain
    the information and care they need when necessary.
        Health care consumers also need to understand their responsibilities
    in a changing health care environment to ensure that they get the best
    possible care. Confirming such rights and responsibilities is critical
    to ensuring that the quality of medical care does not suffer as we seek
    to expand access and improve efficiency of delivery.
        The Consumer Bill of Rights and Responsibilities in Health Care,
    issued today by the Commission, fully lives up to my high expectations.
    The members of the Commission have brought to bear their own
    considerable abilities and have obtained information from a wide range
    of sources. This Bill of Rights and Responsibilities is a comprehensive
    and thoughtful document

    [[Page 1622]]

    that will be an excellent guide as we move through this transition in
    health care delivery. We must take steps to see that the rights
    contained in this document become a reality for all Americans.
        Therefore, I hereby direct you to take the following actions
    consistent with the mission of your agency.
        First, I direct you to determine the extent of your current
    compliance with the recommendations of the Commission.
        Second, I direct you to use your administrative authorities,
    including existing regulations, advisories, and other guidance regarding
    health plans under their respective jurisdictions to initiate
    appropriate administrative actions consistent with the recommendations
    of the Commission.
        Third, I direct you to identify the statutory impediments to
    compliance with the recommendations of the Commission.
        Finally, I direct you to report back to me, through the Vice
    President, by February 19, 1998, with your findings and the
    administrative actions you have already undertaken and will undertake to
    effect the Commission's recommendations.

                                                          William J. Clinton