Murray: Work Will Continue Next Year to End Surprise Medical Billing, Strengthen Health Care For Patients & Families

Washington D.C.—Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, released the following statement calling for continued work next year to end surprise medical billing. Murray also highlighted the need to address the effects of Republican efforts to undermine families’ coverage.

“From the beginning of our negotiations on ending surprise medical billing, I’ve been clear that any solution we reach must end these exorbitant, unexpected charges without shifting costs onto patients in other ways and without interfering with strong efforts at the state level. I believe the bicameral agreement we’ve been working on meets these goals, and I’m very optimistic that we can get a final deal across the finish line next year that does as well.

“In addition, it’s critical we not lose sight of the broader challenges patients and families face when it comes to their coverage and their wellbeing. Families are still waiting for Republicans to return to the table and work with Democrats to repair the damage from larger Republican efforts to undermine families’ coverage, especially those with pre-existing conditions, and take steps that could actually rein in skyrocketing drug prices like allowing Medicare to negotiate lower prices for patients. I look forward to continuing our efforts on these and many other steps to ensure everyone gets the affordable, quality care they need in the new year.”

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