Replies

An excerpt from my link in post #53:

---------------------

Wednesday, August 21, 2002

HEALTH CARE COMMUNITY SUPPORTS BUSH-BROGAN

TALLAHASSEE, FL – The Bush-Brogan campaign is pleased to announce the endorsement of the Florida Medical Association (FMA). This endorsement is a sign of the Governor’s commitment to ensuring that all Floridians receive quality and affordable healthcare.

... “During the last four years, Governor Bush has worked closely with the medical community to ensure better access to quality healthcare for all Floridians,” stated Jim Dolan, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon from Jacksonville. “We look forward to four more years of leadership on healthcare issues from Governor Bush.”

“Governor Bush understands the problems facing doctors and the patients we serve and has pledged to work tirelessly to help solve these complex problems,” commented Madelyn Butler, M.D., an OB/GYN from Tampa.

Governor Bush and Lt. Governor Brogan are strongly committed to healthcare issues:

· Since 1999, nearly 90% more children will have access to the state’s publicly funded health insurance programs, for a total of over 1.5 million children enrolled by next summer;

· Bush signed a health care package in 2002 (Senate Bill 46-E), that required insurance companies to promptly reimburse patients and doctors for out-of-pocket and office expenses;

· In 2001, Gov Bush signed legislation that increased the flexibility of doctors to chose the products that best serve their patients medical needs; and

· Bush signed legislation that allowed hospital patients to be cared for by their family doctor rather than a hospital assigned physician.

“The doctors of the State of Florida believe Governor Jeb Bush is the right person to lead our state for the next four years," stated Steve West, M.D., a cardiologist from Fort Myers.” We know he will continue to be an advocate for our patients and work to increase access to quality healthcare.”

“The citizens of the State of Florida are fortunate to have a Governor who is dedicated to making their lives better,” stated Karl Altenburger, M.D., an allergist from Ocala. “Jeb Bush has earned the support of the medical community of Florida.”

The Florida Medical Association, representing over 16,000 doctors, serves as an advocate for physicians and their patients to promote the public health, to ensure high standards in medical education and ethics, and to enhance the quality and availability of health care.