Congressman Brett Guthrie | Official U.S. House headshot
Congressman Brett Guthrie | Official U.S. House headshot
On December 11, Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee Subcommittee on Health, delivered a speech on the floor of the House of Representatives in support of the Lower Costs, More Transparency Act. Guthrie emphasized the need for transformative change in the healthcare system to address the challenges faced by Americans due to rising healthcare costs.
Guthrie highlighted the importance of transparency in the healthcare system and its potential to lower costs. He mentioned the inclusion of transparency requirements in various aspects of healthcare, such as hospitals, insurance plans, pharmacy benefit managers, and clinical labs. Guthrie also cited examples of how transparency has already proven effective in reducing costs, including a multinational equipment manufacturer who managed their own prescription drug benefits after realizing the charges imposed by pharmacy benefit managers.
One significant aspect of the Lower Costs, More Transparency Act is its departure from a top-down approach and its focus on addressing the rising costs of healthcare based on the mandate given by the American people. Guthrie referred to a 2022 KFF poll that revealed over 95% of surveyed voters supported health care price transparency as a means to reduce costs.
Additionally, the legislation aims to directly lower out-of-pocket costs for seniors, particularly for certain drugs like cancer drugs and medicines administered in doctors' offices owned by hospitals. The bill aims to ensure that seniors receiving Medicare do not pay more for a drug solely based on the location of where they received it.
Guthrie expressed his appreciation for Chair Rodgers' leadership in crafting the bill and acknowledged the significant policy changes achieved while also saving the American people an estimated $700 million. He urged his House colleagues to support the bill and cast their vote in favor of it.
In conclusion, Congressman Brett Guthrie passionately advocated for the Lower Costs, More Transparency Act, emphasizing the need for transparency to drive down healthcare costs and improve the overall healthcare system.
Click this link to access more information: https://guthrie.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=388142
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