Reps. Cammack and Hern Introduce Legislation to Protect Patients in Federal Health Programs

“The use of so-called cost-effective measures like QALYs threatens access to lifesaving care for the most vulnerable Americans,” said Congresswoman Cammack. “I am honored to lead this legislation alongside my colleague Rep. Kevin Hern to ensure that no patient is denied treatment simply because a mathematical formula decided their life is worth less. Every American—regardless of disability, chronic illness, or rare condition—deserves equal access to care.”

"QALY measurements strip humanity away from a patient, leaving only dollar signs and data points. That has no place in our health care system. Every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect and given the best care available," said Congressman Hern. "I am proud to join Congresswoman Cammack on this bill to ban QALY measurements in all federal health care programs." 

"I am excited my colleagues Representatives Cammack and Hern have reintroduced the Protecting Health Care for All Patients Act," said Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Guthrie. "We owe it to Americans – no matter the age, disability status, or measure of health – to provide high-quality care under federal health care programs. I'm thankful to both of my colleagues for reintroducing this sensible legislation that stops the immoral practice of placing arbitrary value on human life within our health care system."

BACKGROUND: 

Last Congress, this legislation passed the House with strong Republican support under the leadership of House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), House Ways and Means Committee Chair Jason Smith (R-MO), Rep. Michael Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), and Rep. Brad Wenstrup, D.P.M. (R-OH). 

In the 119th Congress, the legislation will again receive a dual referral to both the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the House Ways and Means Committee.

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