December 3, 2009

Washington, D.C. – Nevada Senator Harry Reid released the following statement today after Senate passage of the Mikulski Amendment to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act:

“Today’s passage of the Mikulski amendment is a victory for millions of American women.  This amendment improves coverage and affordability of women’s preventive health services by promoting comprehensive women’s preventive care and screenings at no additional cost.  As I’ve said before, Senator Mikulski has long been a champion of improving women’s health services, and her work to develop this amendment continues that legacy.

“According to the American Cancer Society, almost half of Nevada women over age 40 did not get a mammogram or clinical breast exam in their most recent doctor’s visit.  Senator Mikulski’s amendment makes it easier for our mothers, daughters, wives and sisters to receive this critical preventive care that saves lives and saves money.

“The addition of this amendment ensures that our bill preserves the doctor-patient relationship and protects patients’ ability to consult with their doctors on what services are best for them.  Equally important, this amendment is fully paid for.  We took important steps to strengthen our bill today.”