GOP response to President Obama's speech

• Published September 09, 2009

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�We can do better, with a targeted approach that tackles the biggest problems. Here are four important areas where we can agree, right now:

�One, all individuals should have access to coverage, regardless of preexisting conditions.

�Two, individuals, small businesses and other groups should be able to join together to get health insurance at lower prices, the same way large businesses and labor unions do.

�Three, we can provide assistance to those who still cannot access a doctor.

�And, four, insurers should be able to offer incentives for wellness care and prevention � something particularly important to me. I operated on too many people who could have avoided surgery if they�d simply made healthier choices earlier in life.

�We do have ideas the President hasn�t agreed with. We�re grateful the President mentioned medical liability reform, and we hope he�s serious. We need to establish tough liability reform standards, encourage speedy resolution of claims, and deter junk lawsuits that drive up the cost of care. Real reform must do this.

�Let�s also talk about letting families and businesses buy insurance across state lines. I and many other Republicans believe that that will provide real choice and competition to lower the cost of health insurance. Unfortunately, the President disagrees.

�You can read more about all these reforms at healthcare.gop.gov. These are common-sense reforms we can achieve right away � without destroying jobs, exploding the deficit, rationing care, or taking away the freedom American families cherish.

�This Congress can pass meaningful reform soon to reduce some of the fear and anxiety families are feeling in these very difficult times. Working together in a bipartisan way, we can truly lower the cost of health care while improving quality for the American people.

�I�m Dr. Charles Boustany. Thanks for listening.�

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