In the area of research, the bill does not address controversial issues that affect women's health such as sexually transmitted diseases. Other than the few programs named, the bill does not address a broad band of diseases that affect both genders and are therefore significant women's health issues. This is why reauthorization of all NIH programs is needed. I hope that this bill begins that process and that we deal with NIH in a comprehensive fashion. Moreover, the bill does nothing to improve women's access to quality health care.
Women are the majority of enrollees in managed care plans.
Women have unique health care needs that go beyond reproductive health. The National Partnership for Women and Families, along with more than 30 other organizations, has outlined a long list of women's health issues that are addressed by the Patients' Bill of Rights. The legislation before us is silent on these critical issues. So Mr. Speaker, I support this bill despite its limitations and the curious procedural setting, but I want my colleagues to know that important women's health care issues remain to be addressed. None of us should be satisfied until this work is done.