Press Releases

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Larry Bucshon, M.D. (R-Ind.) along with the Committee on House Administration Ranking Member, Congressman Rodney Davis (R-Ill.), introduced the Office of Attending Physician (OAP) Independence Act (H.R. 4862) to de-politicize the Office of Attending Physician by removing it from the partisan overreach of Speaker Pelosi.

H.R. 4862 removes political pressures that could be put on the OAP by political leaders through establishing a bicameral, bipartisan oversight framework, much like that of the Architect of the Capitol that has been in place since 1990, to appoint and hold accountable the Office of Attending Physician. Additionally, this bill would establish a 10-year term limit on the position with the opportunity to be reappointed.

“Given the impact the OAP’s guidance can have on the ability of Congress and the Supreme Court to carry out their Constitutional duties, it is paramount we ensure that the medical guidance from the OAP is driven solely by science. As a doctor, it appalls me to think doctors are put in a position to have to answer to political pressures brought on by politicians, rather than set forth guidance based on facts, medical expertise, and training,” said Dr. Bucshon. “The OAP Independence Act would modernize the Office of the Attending Physician and end the partisan, quasi-oversight rule of Speaker Pelosi when it comes to Congress’ public health decisions.”

“Under Speaker Pelosi’s leadership, we’ve continued to see Congressional officers, including the Office of Attending Physician, being used as political pawns. This needs to change, and it should start with how the officials are selected. Members, staff, and the American people should know the motivations behind the health guidance they’re being given and be able to trust the process. This bill would help remove the politics, increase transparency, and clarify that the Committee on House Administration has an oversight role over the Attending Physician. I appreciate Congressman Bucshon’s expertise as a physician and his leadership in crafting this legislation,” said Congressman Davis.

The Office of Attending Physician was established to be the doctor on campus and attend to basic medical needs, not set protocols to respond to a global pandemic. The Office of Attending Physician (OAP) Independence Act would modernize the office to fit the current needs of America. 

Click here for the full bill text.