“We are deeply disturbed at renewed efforts to introduce unlimited lawsuits into America’s health care system, and we fear such actions can only lead to further gridlock on patients’ rights. Surveys consistently indicate that Americans don’t want unlimited lawsuits; they want assurances that patients will get the care they need when they need it. This requires a balanced approach built on sound public policy - not a divisive approach fueled by political considerations and special-interest priorities.

            “Legislation that jeopardizes the health benefits of millions of American workers for the benefit of trial lawyers can hardly be called patient protection. Approximately 129 million Americans - nearly 80 percent of all workers in the United States - get their health coverage through the workplace. Another 43 million have no health coverage at all. Our first responsibility as legislators is to expand health care access for those who do not have it. Unlimited lawsuits will make this mission infinitely harder to accomplish.”