A new Congressional Doctors Caucus has been established in the U.S. House of Representatives, led by six Democratic physicians committed to promoting evidence-based healthcare policies. The caucus aims to expand access, lower costs, and strengthen care delivery, using the medical expertise of its members to advocate for pragmatic solutions.
Rep. Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06), an internal medicine physician, is spearheading the initiative, emphasizing the need for real-world healthcare experience in shaping policy. “As physicians, we see firsthand the challenges patients and providers face daily,” Bera stated. “This caucus will work toward practical solutions that ensure every American has access to quality, affordable healthcare.”
The Democratic Doctors Caucus marks a shift in the political landscape, which has been historically influenced by the Republican-led GOP Doctors Caucus since its establishment in 2009. While the GOP caucus has played a significant role in shaping healthcare policy, the newly formed Democratic group aims to provide a counter-narrative amid ongoing debates on healthcare access and affordability.
Rep. Maxine Dexter, M.D. (OR), a pulmonary and critical care specialist, highlighted the importance of defending science-driven, patient-centered healthcare policies. Meanwhile, Rep. Kelly Morrison, M.D. (MN), the House’s first OB-GYN, voiced her commitment to protecting reproductive healthcare rights and ensuring lifesaving care remains accessible.
Rep. Raul Ruiz, M.D. (CA), an emergency medicine physician, expressed enthusiasm about the caucus’s mission, stating, “We are here to fight for quality, affordable healthcare for American families.”
With its formation, the Democratic Doctors Caucus aims to be a strong voice for healthcare reform, ensuring that medical expertise and evidence-based policies guide decision-making in Congress.
