WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ways and Means Health Subcommittee Chairman Vern Buchanan (FL-16) delivered the following opening statement at a Health Subcommittee field hearing held at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Bradenton, Florida on Modernized Health Care in Practice: Empowering Americans to Live Healthier Lives.

As prepared for delivery.

“Good morning and welcome to Florida’s beautiful sixteenth Congressional district for our Health Subcommittee field hearing. 

“I am personally thrilled to hold this important hearing focusing on prevention and healthy living.

“As I speak about often, America spends more dollars on health care than other nations, yet we as a country are getting sicker. 

“We spend over five trillion dollars on health care, yet six in 10 Americans have at least one chronic disease.

“Chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and obesity are among the leading causes of death in this country. 

“When we look at obesity alone, about 20 percent of children are obese, compared to just 3 percent in 1970. 

“30 percent of young adults are obese, disqualifying them from military service. 

“And at least 40 percent of adults are obese. 

“Obesity is projected to result in as much as $9 trillion in excess medical expenses. 

“We must think about health care in this country differently—patients and taxpayers are depending on it.

“We must train the next generation of doctors to prevent chronic diseases, focusing on nutrition and healthier lifestyles. 

“We must also support a health care system that values prevention, not reaction. 

“Instead of paying fee-for-service, we must pay for value and outcomes. 

“I believe new technology also plays a key role in supporting prevention. 

“Ultimately, I want people to ‘be the CEOs of their own health.’

“I look forward to highlighting how my Congressional district is supporting prevention and healthy living, and I look forward to discussing ways to improve the health of Americans.”