Washington, DC -Congressman John D. Dingell (D-MI15) made the following remarks after learning the American Medical Association (AMA) Executive Vice President/CEO Michael D. Maves announced the AMA would support H.R. 3200, the “America’s Affordable Health Choices Act of 2009.”

“This is a true milestone in this process and the historical significance of the AMA’s support should not be underestimated. Quite honestly, it has been difficult to win the support of this organization going all the way back to the 1930s. That has been a great disappointment to many of us who have fought for quality, affordable health care for all, because we need the input of our fine doctors and healers.

“Clearly, the AMA’s support has come after careful consideration and I am pleased that they recognize the House plan includes important provisions that are key to effective, comprehensive health system reform. H.R. 3200 includes important Medicare reforms, including reforms to the sustainable growth rate system, and provides additional funding for primary care services, without imposing offsetting payment reductions on specialty care. We feel these changes will address some of the largest concerns we’ve heard from the medical community.

“I think it is fair to say that we couldn’t win the AMA’s approval if there was any threat to the relationship between doctors and their patients. We believe the best way to reform health care is to make it easier for doctors to treat their patients. This nation’s medical professionals provide the finest care in the world and it is about time we create a system that allows them to concentrate on what they do so well - treat the sick.”

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