Stephen J. Ubl, president and CEO of the Advanced Medical Technology Association (AdvaMed), issued the following statement today in response to reports that President-elect Barack Obama has selected former Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle to serve as the next Secretary of Health and Human Services:

"AdvaMed commends President-elect Obama's choice of Senator Daschle to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. He has a breadth and depth of experience and a commitment to health care issues that will prove invaluable in leading this crucial department. As a former Congressman and Senate Majority and Minority Leader, Senator Daschle understands what it takes to get things done on Capitol Hill and will play a vital role in the Obama Administration's plans to improve our health care system.

"AdvaMed looks forward to working with Senator Daschle as the debate on health care reform proceeds. We are committed to ensuring that reform provides affordable, quality insurance for all and recognizes the importance of medical innovation. The medical technology industry creates the new diagnostic tests, treatments and cures that bring help and hope to millions of patients and their families every day."

AdvaMed member companies produce the medical devices, diagnostic products and health information systems that are transforming health care through earlier disease detection, less invasive procedures and more effective treatments. Our members produce nearly 90 percent of the health care technology purchased annually in the United States and more than 50 percent purchased annually around the world. AdvaMed members range from the largest to the smallest medical technology innovators and companies.

AdvaMed