October 1, 2013 Print press release (PDF)

HIDA Applauds House Passage of "Pedigree" Legislation

HIDA President & CEO highlights Congressional leadership efforts

Alexandria, Va. – The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Drug Quality and Security Act (H.R. 3204) Saturday, establishing a strong, uniform federal prescription drug-tracing standard. The bill was negotiated between the House and Senate chambers during the August Congressional recess and passed the House by a voice vote.

“On behalf of medical-surgical products distributors, HIDA applauds the House’s vote to ensure supply chain integrity for patients and providers,” said HIDA President & CEO Matthew J. Rowan. “We appreciate the leadership of Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI) and Congressman Bob Latta (R-OH) for working on this important patient safety issue. HIDA members have advocated tirelessly and educated members of Congress on the urgent need to simplify existing state ‘pedigree’ requirements.

The ability to trace medical products uniformly while maintaining a seamless healthcare supply chain is essential. We encourage immediate Senate action on the bill to ensure this reaches the President’s desk as quickly as possible.”

MEDIA CONTACT:
Jeff Girardi, 703-838-6110
girardi@hida.org

About HIDA
The Health Industry Distributors Association (HIDA) is the premier trade association representing medical products distribution. HIDA members primarily serve the nation’s hospital, long term care, and physician/alternate care markets. For more information, visit www.HIDA.org. For more information on HIDA’s Streamlining Healthcare initiative, visit www.streamlininghealthcare.org.