Date:	Aug. 7, 2007
Contact:	Karen Senger, OSU Center for Health Sciences (918) 561-1219

Senator Coburn Discusses Universal Health Care Issues

U.S. Senator Dr. Tom Coburn spoke to a crowd of about 100 people in Dunlap Auditorium Aug. 7 about the proposed “Universal Health Care Choice and Access Act.”

Dr. Coburn’s presentation was part of the Tulsa Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce’s Health Care Forum Series and was hosted by OSU Center for Health Sciences.

Dr. Coburn, M.D. (R-OK), a practicing physician and member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP), introduced last March the “Universal Health Care Choice and Access Act,” a comprehensive health care reform plan that puts individuals in charge to preserve access, affordability, and choice.

During his presentation, Dr. Coburn stressed the urgency for health care reform.  He stated health care today is structured to treat chronic diseases but needs to change to provide preventative medicine.  He explained spending more dollars on prevention will significantly reduce health care costs.

Dr. Coburn answered several questions regarding his health care reform act.  At the end of the forum, Jonathan Bushman, MS I class president, presented an “Honorary White Coat” certificate to Dr. Coburn for his support of OSU Center for Health Sciences and his efforts in the health care industry.