DelBene, Upton Launch Medical Technology Caucus

Statement

Today, Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-01) and Congressman Fred Upton (MI-06) announced the launch of the Congressional Medical Technology (MedTech) Caucus, a bipartisan effort to educate Congress on and bring awareness to policies impacting innovative medical technology and patients who depend on it.

Medical devices and breakthrough technologies improve the lives of millions of Americans, helping give sight to the blind, hearing to the deaf, and mobility to those who have been paralyzed. The medical technology industry is a model of American innovation and high-tech manufacturing, where 21st Century technologies support middle-class jobs, save lives, and improve health outcomes.

"Washington state is home to over 600 medical technology start-ups and businesses making us a powerhouse for the discoveries of tomorrow. This sector not only helps Americans live longer but also live better lives and creates good-paying jobs across the country," said DelBene, a co-chair of the caucus. "This bipartisan effort we are announcing today will help educate members of Congress and the broader public about the benefits of these medical innovations and help unlock the potential of this industry."

"The creation of the Congressional MedTech Caucus is welcome news in our fight to invest in life-saving medical research, manufacture new technology, and find cures to the world's toughest diseases," said Upton. "In Southwest Michigan, employers like Stryker, which lead the medical device industry in ground-breaking research and innovation, power our economy and create hundreds of good-paying jobs. This new caucus is a major victory for patients, jobs, and medical innovation across the country, and I look forward to serving as a co-chair with my colleague Rep. Suzan DelBene."

Medical device manufacturing is a net-trade exporter and is responsible for more than 2 million good-paying American jobs. The average medical technology job pays up to 40 percent more than the nation's average salary

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