All Americans should have access to quality health care. America's health care system, while it offers the most advanced treatment and technology in the world, is also overburdened by inefficiencies and inequitable distribution of resources.

We cannot ignore the more than 40 million citizens who lack health insurance. The added costs of delayed or denied health care requires immediate attention of all Americans to make bold reforms if we are to improve health care in the United States.

Since coming to the Maryland Legislature Congress in 1983, I have been consistently supported legislative efforts to expand coverage, improve the quality of care, and ensure appropriate reimbursement for medical providers.