Press Releases

Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) today was presented with the Visionary Award by the American Academy of Ophthalmology for his recent work in introducing the Compounding Clarity Act (H.R. 3089) and his continuing efforts related to compounded and repackaged drugs.  The American Academy of Ophthalmology represents more than 31,000 members, making it the world’s largest educational and scientific organization of eye physicians and surgeons.  Its annual Visionary Award honors organizations and/or Members of Congress for helping to advance quality eye care.  U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY), an ophthalmologist, was also presented with the Visionary Award.

Griffith said, “Access to safe, quality care is a priority of mine not only as a legislator, but as a patient and a parent as well.  It truly is an honor to accept this Visionary Award, though there is further work to do related to compounded drugs.  The new law on this issue is a start, but it leaves many areas of practice where clarification may still be needed.  I will continue working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for further clarification, to oversee FDA interpretation and implementation of the law, and to preserve access to critical treatments.”

Compounded medications have long been essential tools available to ophthalmologists for urgent treatment of eye diseases and conditions, benefitting millions of patients.

"Congressman Griffith has made significant contributions to ophthalmology's fight for legislation that can protect and improve eye care for millions of patients throughout the country who need and depend upon our services," said David W. Parke II, M.D., CEO of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. "We are honored to work with such a remarkable and tireless representative."

Griffith introduced the Compounding Clarity Act on September 12, 2013 along with Congressman Gene Green (D-TX) and Congresswoman Diana DeGette (D-CO).  This bipartisan legislation would clarify Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authority over compounding, particularly large-scale entities that act as drug manufacturers.  Some of the Compounding Clarity Act was incorporated into the Drug Quality and Security Act (H.R. 3204), a bipartisan, bicameral agreement helping to ensure the safety of compounded drugs that was signed into law on November 27, 2013.

See attached for a photo of Rep. Griffith accepting the Visionary Award in Washington, D.C.

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