Health IT Coalition Unites Interests of Patients, Providers, Employees and Employers, Says Verizon Executive

WASHINGTON - A new coalition of patients, health practitioners and employers was announced Tuesday (June 5) to encourage Congress to pass legislation this year promoting the rapid deployment of a "connected health care IT system."  At a Capitol Hill news conference hosted by two former members of Congress, the Health IT Now! coalition, of which Verizon is a member, said it plans to educate lawmakers and the public on life- and cost-saving benefits of replacing current paper patient records with electronic records.

The following statement in support of the coalition and its efforts should be attributed to Peter Davidson, Verizon senior vice president of Federal Government relations.

"With nearly 1 million employees, retirees and dependents, Verizon cares deeply about the quality and affordability of health care.  We strongly support the efforts of the Health IT NOW! coalition to ensure Congress passes legislation to empower patients with electronic medical records.  Congress can help save lives, time and money by enacting legislation this year."

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