The League of Women Voters believes that the Patients' Bill of Rights Act of 1998 now being considered by Congress (Senate Bill 1890 and House Bill 3605) will correct many of the problems which have come with the tremendous growth of HMOs for most Americans.

These bills guarantee basic health care protections, including the right of seriously ill persons to get direct access to specialists, the right to emergency room care and the right to have medical information kept confidential.

This legislation will enable patients to receive clear information about different health care plans and establish an appeals process that will resolve grievances in a timely and balanced manner.

The League of Women Voters strongly supports the Patients' bill of Rights Act and urges concerned citizens to contact their senators and representatives to urge them to vote 'yes' on the Patients' Bill of Rights Act of 1998.

Ruth A. Velleman

Action Chair

League of Women Voters

of Port Washington/Manhasset