Saxby Chambliss, U.S. Senator for Georgia

Americans need greater access to health insurance, and we must ensure that families are able to choose the best plan suited for them.  I do not believe a Washington-run, big government health care system is the answer.  I am an original cosponsor of S. 1099, "The Patients' Choice Act of 2009," legislation to provide individuals and families with tax incentives to allow them to afford to purchase their own health insurance.  This tax break would put people on the same playing field as corporations, and employees would no longer have to pay more for the same coverage provided through work and could take their coverage with them if they decided to change jobs.  Private insurance companies would have to cater to individuals' needs, and individuals will have to power to choose the plan best suited for them. 

Additionally, "The Patients' Choice Act of 2009" would cover pre-existing conditions, would provide incentives for living healthy lifestyles, and would not make cuts to the Medicare program.  This legislation would also allow individuals to purchase health insurance outside the state in which they reside. 

"The Patients' Choice Act of 2009" addresses tort reform and medical malpractice lawsuits by creating three separate venues to pursue compensation for injured patients at the state level.  Under this system, we can limit lawsuit abuse without sacrificing legal justice. 

As the Senate debates health care reform, I will continue to work to see that Americans are provided with quality, affordable health care.  This is a critical issue that faces every single American family and we must get it right.