U.S. Congressman Michael C. Burgess : 26th District Of Texas

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HEALTH CARE

America's health care system stands at a crossroads -- and with my expertise as a physician, I will work to influence the direction taken by our national health policy over the next several years. As a doctor with over 21 years of experience, and now a U.S. Congressman, reforming our health care system is one of my top priorities. During the 108th Congress, the U.S. House of Representatives has approved key pieces of legislation that will improve individuals’ access to health care.

Legislation that will make it easier for businesses to purchase health care for their employees and legislation that will improve Medicare and make a prescription drug benefit available to all seniors are just two of the important measures passed by the U.S. House in the previous Congress. The 109th Congress will refocus with an agressive agenda to meet the health needs of millions Americans. T

he cost of care continues to increase and businesses are more and more reluctant to provide coverage for their employees. The self-insured market can be cost prohibitive for most Americans. In light of these developments, the U.S. Congress must enact laws that provide a safety net for the poorest of the poor, take less taxpayer dollars so they can be used to pay for the cost of a family's health coverage, and provide new incentives for families and individuals to save for their health expenses through consumer-driven investment accounts.

I was pleased when the Congress was able to pass legislation in 2003 making Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) more available. HSAs are investement-type accounts that can be established with tax free dollars and are dedicated to the account holder's medical needs.

During the 109th Congress, I hope we can build on this success by making the premium payments for HSA high-deductible health insurance plans completely tax-deductible. More government mandates or a one-sized fits all, national health care program are not solutions to this crisis, and would only serve to create a myriad of new problems on top of the old ones. Market oriented reforms will give health care consumers less expensive options when it comes to their health needs.

Other useful websites:
National Institutes of Health
House Energy and Commerce Committe
National Human Genome Research Institute
Health Decisions - this will help you locate HSAs in your state

Related Documents:

E-Newsletters & Bulletins - The November Burgess Bulletin 11.1.2006

E-Newsletters & Bulletins - The October Burgess Bulletin 10.3.2006

Press Releases & Statements - Is anybody else out there tired of talking about this? - Medicare Physician Payment 9.29.2006

Press Releases & Statements - Hearing on Medicare Physician Payment 9.28.2006

Press Releases & Statements - House Passes Burgess’s Legislation for Infant Mortality Awareness Month 9.28.2006

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