Six Words More Than Enough For Senate Battle

"Democrats and Republicans locked horns Friday over inclusion of medical comparative effectiveness study language in a draft health care overhaul measure, suggesting that majority plans to spend only eight days debating and amending the bill may be ambitious," CQ Politics reports. The head-to-head comparisons of medical treatments show how easily a seemingly small provision can become embroiled in major controversy, and demonstrate the potential for indefinite debate. Republicans raise the flag of rationing, saying comparative effectiveness research shouldn't be used to deny care, while Democrats say they basically agree, but insist on looser language. The current legislative language at the center of the battle? The research "shall not be construed as mandates" (6/19).