Sullivan Introduces Healthcare Truth and Transparency Act

Sullivan Introduces Healthcare Truth and Transparency Act

Today, Congressman John Sullivan introduced the Healthcare Truth and Transparency Act, important health care legislation which will move patients off of the sidelines and give them a chance to become active participants in the management of their health.

"Given the complexity of the health care system in America, we need to make it easier for consumers to understand the differences in the kind of care offered," Sullivan said. "We need a fundamental change in the way we approach the delivery of health care in the United States, which is why I have introduced the Healthcare Truth and Transparency Act."

A National Consumers League survey on eye care showed that nearly all of those surveyed - 95 percent - said only physicians should perform surgery. State changes in laws related to practitioners' scope of practice have blurred the line between medical doctors, doctors of osteopathic medicine, doctors of dental surgery or doctors of dental medicine, and non-M.D. practitioners. Adding to the confusion are providers, who are not medical doctors, using incorrect terminology such as "doctor" and "physician." This important legislation helps patients distinguish between those who are medical doctors and those who are non-M.D. practitioners. "While non-M.D. practitioners have an important role in the health care system, in fairness to the patients, the line must be clear as to the qualifications of the providers treating them."

The Healthcare Truth and Transparency Act ensures that non-M.D practitioners do not misrepresent themselves to their patients through advertising. Individuals who still continue to do so would be subject to investigation and fines by the Federal Trade Commission.

"As we focus on improving the delivery of health care in America, we must start by insisting on a level of transparency and truth in advertising that will empower patients to make an informed decision when it comes to their health care," Sullivan said.

http://sullivan.house.gov/press06/6.27.06.shtml