These are the conversations that help shape real solutions. I’m grateful to Texas Health, Parkland, Children’s Health, Healing Hands ministries, Metrocare, and all the leaders who joined us to share their experiences and insight.

We also heard ideas for reopening rural hospitals as emergency facilities to keep care closer to home — and for supporting the workforce we rely on to make that possible.

Participants also raised the need for stronger guardrails on prior authorization, better oversight of Medicare Advantage plans, and investments in navigator programs that help patients understand their coverage options.

We talked about the issues that make care less affordable and less accessible for families — from the expiration of enhanced premium tax credits and cuts to reimbursement rates, to the challenges hospitals face keeping nurses and staff on the job.

Thank you, Madam Speaker, for your decades of service, your vision, and your example.

Your legacy will continue to inspire us all.