November 18, 2013

HIDA Applauds Senate Passage of Pedigree Legislation

Alexandria, Va. – Today the U.S. Senate passed House bill H.R. 3204, the Drug Quality and Security Act, which establishes 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 in September by a voice vote.

“On behalf of medical-surgical products distributors, HIDA applauds today’s Senate vote to ensure a secure supply chain for patients and providers,” said HIDA President & CEO Matthew J. Rowan. “We appreciate the leadership of Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee Chairman Harkin (D-IA), Ranking Member Alexander (R-TN), and Senators Burr (R-NC) and Bennet (D-CO) for working on this important supply chain integrity issue. HIDA members have advocated tirelessly and educated members of Congress on the urgent need to provide a national ‘pedigree’ solution to the current patchwork of state laws and standards.

The ability to trace medical products uniformly while maintaining a seamless healthcare supply chain is essential. We encourage immediate Presidential action on the bill to ensure this is signed into law 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 or www.streamlininghealthcare.org.