Nonetheless, groups representing patients said the proposed changes could eventually lower the quality of care.

Patient participation is very important - patients who participate represent patients like them that were not selected to participate.

This is a maybe category; normally it represents patients who could benefit from an IVC filter, but may be just fine without one as well.

The second scene took place in the actual ruins of a smallpox hospital, with performers representing weary convicts and woebegone patients.

Without insurance backing a doctor or a hospital, Ms. Christopher said, lawyers, working on a percentage basis, often will not consider representing patients and their families.

Mr. Simpson has since been interviewed by federal investigators and is now representing numerous patients suing Redding.

This proposal, for a "medical innovation tax credit," has won support from public health groups that represent patients with cancer and other diseases.

Officials of Mental Health Legal Services, the state agency that represents psychiatric patients, could not be reached for comment.

The opposition has been joined by much of the state's medical establishment, including organizations representing doctors, hospitals, nurses, and patients.

As for the arguments as to whether or not the lobbying we have had represents patients - I believe this is a sterile debate.