Committee on Ways and Means

For Immediate Release
Contact: Press Office 202-225-8933
June 17, 2002

Medicare Rx Drug Bill Slated for Committee Action

America’s seniors are counting on us to deliver, says Thomas

WASHINGTON - This week, the Committee will act on Medicare prescription drug legislation. The bill will provide a permanent entitlement, prescription drug benefit for seniors while also taking steps to strengthen Medicare.

“Seniors deserve 21st century health care that integrates the miracles of modern medicine. Our legislation adds a voluntary prescription drug benefit that is available to all seniors, while significantly reducing their out-of-pocket costs. The bill also improves reimbursement policy, reforms irrational physician payments, strengthens rural health care, while reducing needless regulatory hurdles so that seniors have access to the best care,” said Ways and Means Chairman Bill Thomas (R-CA).

“America’s seniors have waited too long to have access to affordable prescription drugs as part of Medicare, and we should pass this bill into law,” Thomas added. “We will work hard to deliver.”

What:  Markup of Medicare Prescription Drug Legislation
When:  Tuesday, June 18, 2002 at 1:00 p.m.
Where:  1100 Longworth House Office Building

During the 107th Congress, sixteen hearings have been held at both the Ways and Means Committee and its Health Subcommittee to explore how best to improve Medicare and deliver prescription drugs.


BACK to Committee on Ways and Means