Statement by Samuel H. Howard, Member

March 6, 1998

It is an honor to serve on this Commission whose work will affect the lives of all Americans, including my children.

My hope is that we can recommend a series of steps which will not only protect beneficiaries but further improve their opportunities to select from a variety of quality health plans in a manner similar to choices now available to Federal employees.

It is also imperative that we study those systems which do not breed waste, fraud and abuse and that we apply those lessons to a modernized Medicare program.