Alabama has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements and direct access for women's health services. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 1,040,000 women in Alabama are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.
• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

States have enacted a number of patient protections. At least 30 states have enacted provisions to give patients access to needed specialists -- including giving women greater access to qualified health specialists for women's services. At least 28 states have enacted legislation to help ensure that patients have access to emergency room services when and where the need arises. However, states do not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 100,000 women in Alaska are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Arizona has enacted a number of patient protections, including anti-gag clauses, disclosure of physician incentive arrangements, and access to external appeals. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 830,000 women in Arizona are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Arkansas has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, direct access for women's health services, and continuity of care protections. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 500,000 women in Arkansas are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

California has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, direct access for women's health services, access to emergency room services, and prohibiting "gag clauses." However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 6,230,000 women in California are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Colorado has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, direct access for women's health services, continuity of care provisions, and access to emergency room services. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 890,000 women in Colorado are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Connecticut has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, direct access for women's health services, and access to emergency room services. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 910,000 women in Connecticut are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Delaware has enacted a number of patient protections, including direct access for women's health services and prohibiting "gag clauses." However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

•  190,000 women in Delaware are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

States have enacted a number of patient protections. At least 30 states have enacted provisions to give patients access to needed specialists -- including giving women greater access to qualified health specialists for women's services. At least 28 states have enacted legislation to help ensure that patients have access to emergency room services when and where the need arises. However, states do not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 80,000 women in the District of Columbia are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Florida has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, direct access for women's health services, continuity of care provisions, and access to emergency room services. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

•  2,710,000 women in Florida are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Georgia has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, direct access for women's health services, prohibiting "gag clauses, and disclosure of physician incentive arrangements. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 1,700,000 women in Georgia are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Hawaii has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 250,000 women in Hawaii are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Idaho has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, direct access for women's health services, access to emergency room services, prohibiting "gag clauses" and confidentiality of health information. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 240,000 women in Idaho are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Illinois has enacted a number of patient protections, including direct access for women's health services. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 3,120,000 women in Illinois are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Indiana has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, direct access for women's health services, and prohibiting "gag clauses." However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 1,600,000 women in Indiana are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

States have enacted a number of patient protections. At least 30 states have enacted provisions to give patients access to needed specialists -- including giving women greater access to qualified health specialists for women's services. At least 28 states have enacted legislation to help ensure that patients have access to emergency room services when and where the need arises. However, states do not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 700,000 women in Iowa are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Kansas has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, continuity of care protections, access to emergency room services, and prohibiting "gag clauses." However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 600,000 women in Kansas are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

States have enacted a number of patient protections. At least 30 states have enacted provisions to give patients access to needed specialists -- including giving women greater access to qualified health specialists for women's services. At least 28 states have enacted legislation to help ensure that patients have access to emergency room services when and where the need arises. However, states do not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

•  860,000 women in Kentucky are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Louisiana has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, direct access for women's health care services, access to emergency room services, disclosure of physician incentive arrangements, and prohibiting "gag clauses." However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

•  830,000 women in Louisiana are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Maine has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, access to specialists, continuity of care protections, access to emergency room services, prohibiting "gag clauses," confidentiality of health information, and disclosure of physician incentive arrangements. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.
 

• 310,000 women in Maine are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Maryland has enacted a number of patient protections, including continuity of care protections, access to emergency room services, prohibiting "gag clauses,"confidentiality of health information, and disclosure of physician incentive arrangements. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.
 

• 1,130,000 women in Maryland are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Massachusetts has enacted a number of patient protections, including prohibiting "gag clauses" and confidentiality of health information. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 1,600,000 women in Massachusetts are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Michigan has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, access to emergency room services and prohibiting "gag clauses." However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 2,560,000 women in Michigan are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Minnesota has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, direct access for women's health specialists, continuity of care protections, and prohibiting "gag clauses." However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

•  1,120,000 women in Minnesota are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Missouri has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, access to specialists, access to emergency room services, disclosure of physician incentive arrangements and prohibiting "gag clauses." However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 1,160,000 women in Missouri are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

States have enacted a number of patient protections. At least 30 states have enacted provisions to give patients access to needed specialists -- including giving women greater access to qualified health specialists for women's services. At least 28 states have enacted legislation to help ensure that patients have access to emergency room services when and where the need arises. However, states do not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

•  570,000 women in Mississippi are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Montana has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, access to specialists, continuity of care protections, access to emergency room services, and prohibiting "gag clauses." However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

•  170,000 women in Montana are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Nebraska has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, access to emergency room services, and prohibiting "gag clauses." However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 340,000 women in Nebraska are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Nevada has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, prohibiting "gag clauses", and access to emergency room services. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

•  400,000 women in Nevada are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

New Hampshire has enacted a number of patient protections, including prohibiting "gag clauses", access to emergency room services, and confidentiality of health information. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

•      290,000 women in New Hampshire are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

New Jersey has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, prohibiting "gag clauses", access to emergency room services, anti-discrimination provisions, and disclosure of physician incentive arrangements. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

•  1,920,000 women in New Jersey are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

New Mexico has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, direct access for women's health services, prohibiting "gag clauses", and confidentiality of health information. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

•  260,000 women in New Mexico are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

New York has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, direct access for women's health services, prohibiting "gag clauses", access to emergency room services, and disclosure of physician incentive arrangements. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 3,800,000 women in New York are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

North Carolina has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, prohibiting "gag clauses", access to emergency room services, anti-discrimination provisions, and external appeals entities. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

•  1,730,000 women in North Carolina are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

North Dakota has enacted a number of patient protections, including prohibiting "gag clauses." However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 130,000 women in North Dakota are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Ohio has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, prohibiting "gag clauses", access to emergency room services, disclosure of physician incentive arrangements, and external appeals entities. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 2,940,000 women in Ohio are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Oklahoma has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, prohibiting "gag clauses", and access to emergency room services. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

•  630,000 women in Oklahoma are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Oregon has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, prohibiting "gag clauses", access to emergency room services, and direct access for women's health services. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 750,000 women in Oregon are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Pennsylvania has enacted a number of patient protections, including prohibiting "gag clauses." However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 3,120,000 women in Pennsylvania are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Rhode Island has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, prohibiting "gag clauses"and disclosure of physician incentive arrangements, and external appeals entities. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 230,000 women in Rhode Island are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

States have enacted a number of patient protections. At least 30 states have enacted provisions to give patients access to needed specialists -- including giving women greater access to qualified health specialists for women's services. At least 28 states have enacted legislation to help ensure that patients have access to emergency room services when and where the need arises. However, states do not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 840,000 women in South Carolina are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

States have enacted a number of patient protections. At least 30 states have enacted provisions to give patients access to needed specialists -- including giving women greater access to qualified health specialists for women's services. At least 28 states have enacted legislation to help ensure that patients have access to emergency room services when and where the need arises. However, states do not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

•  150,000 women in South Dakota are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Tennessee has enacted a number of patient protections, including prohibiting "gag clauses", and access to emergency room services. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 1,180,000 women in Tennessee are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Texas has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, prohibiting "gag clauses", access to emergency room services, and external appeals entities. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 3,900,000 women in Texas are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Utah has enacted a number of patient protections, including prohibiting "gag clauses" and direct access for women's health services. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

•  470,000 women in Utah are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Vermont has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, prohibiting "gag clauses," disclosure of physician incentive arrangements, and external appeals entities. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 140,000 women in Vermont are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Virginia has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, prohibiting "gag clauses," and disclosure of physician incentive arrangements. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 1,540,000 women in Virginia are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Washington has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, prohibiting "gag clauses," access to emergency room services, and disclosure of physician incentive arrangements. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

•  1,240,000 women in Washington are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

West Virginia has enacted a number of patient protections, including information disclosure requirements, prohibiting "gag clauses," and access to emergency room services. However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 350,000 women in West Virginia are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Wisconsin has enacted a number of patient protections, including prohibiting "gag clauses." However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 1,440,000 women in Wisconsin are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.

Wyoming has enacted a number of patient protections, including prohibiting "gag clauses." However, the state does not provide for the full range of patients' rights recommended by the Quality Commission. Also, as outlined above, these state-enacted protections do not fully apply to patients in ERISA plans.

Passing a patients' bill of rights is particularly important for women.

• 100,000 women in Wyoming are in ERISA health plans and Federal legislation is necessary to assure they get the range of protections recommended by the Quality Commission.

• Over 60 percent of physician visits are made by women, and women make three quarters of the health care decisions in American households. Therefore, patient protections that help consumers make informed decisions are particularly important for women.
• Women in managed care plans are increasingly dissatisfied with the quality of care. Nearly 70 percent of privately insured women ages 18 to 65 are in managed care plans. Almost two-fifths of women in managed care plans worry that they will not be able to get speciality care when they need it. Twenty-seven percent of women in managed care plans worry that they will be denied a medical procedure they need.
• Without the patients' bill of rights, women may not receive important preventive services. The patient protection that gives women direct access to an obstetrician/gynecologist is not only necessary to make sure that pregnant women get the care they need, but is also important to assure women get important preventive services. Studies show that gynecologists are almost two times as likely to perform timely, needed women's preventive services.