Congresswoman Susan Davis is joined by her colleagues at the U.S. Capitol promoting October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Congresswoman Susan Davis is joined by her colleagues at the U.S. Capitol promoting October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

On the Issues

Health Care

Growing up, Susan remembered her father, a pediatrician, leaving the house at all hours to care for his young patients.  Her father's devotion to his patients shaped her interest in health care and public service.  In fact, one of the reasons Susan wanted to come to Washington, D.C. was to make health care more affordable and accessible for San Diego families. 

Research Funding

Since coming to Congress, Susan has been working with a bipartisan coalition of colleagues to achieve ambitious increases in the NIH budget.  The critical research at NIH holds the keys to unlocking the mysteries of many terrible diseases.  Adequate funding allows NIH to continue its valuable work on behalf of patients and communities.

Mental Health

Susan has been a vocal advocate of mental health care throughout her career.  As the wife of a psychiatrist and a former psychiatric social worker, she has gotten a firsthand look at the mental health needs in the community, and she knows mental health care does not receive the attention or funding it deserves.  As a proud member of the Congressional Mental Health Caucus, Susan has worked to bring greater attention to the mental health needs of servicemembers. 

Women's Health

Currently, numerous health care plans require a referral for an appointment with an ob-gyn.  This can be a time consuming and inconvenient process.  In response, Susan has introduced H.R. 283, the Women's Obstetrician and Gynecologist Medical Access Now (WOMAN) Act, which would allow direct access to an obstetrician and gynecologist (OB/GYN).

The WOMAN Act recognizes women have different medical needs than men and the significant role OB/GYNs play in women's health.  Women who see an OB/GYN on a regular basis are more likely to receive important screening services, such as pelvic exams, as well as counseling on critical reproductive health issues.