Jul 13, 2000
Guidant Supports Efforts to Foster Innovation in Health Care

Indianapolis, IN - Guidant Corporation (NYSE and PCX: GDT), a global leader in the medical technology industry, is today joining a number of the nation''s leading health care companies and institutions at a one-day Capitol Hill exhibition showcasing medical breakthroughs that have the potential to save and improve the lives of hundreds of thousands of Americans.

More than 20 health care innovators will take part in the exhibition "Health Care Innovations for the New Millennium", co-sponsored by the Healthcare Leadership Council and Healtheon/Web MD. The event is designed to provide policymakers with the opportunity to better understand the policy environment needed to support the innovations that advance health care for all Americans.

Among the speakers at today''s event are Senator John Breaux (D-LA) and Congressman Bill Thomas (R-CA), leaders in congressional efforts to reform the Medicare program.

"The innovations displayed here today are improving the lives of persons around the nation, and the initiatives sponsored by Senator Breaux and Representative Thomas will help to ensure that innovation can continue," stated Ronald W. Dollens, Guidant President and CEO. "Guidant is committed to educating policymakers and the public at large about the critical importance of choice and competition in fostering innovation."

During the event, Guidant will showcase several of its minimally invasive, novel technologies that hold great promise for patients with a range of cardiovascular diseases. Some of Guidant''s clinical innovations on display include technologies in the areas of heart failure, abdominal aortic aneurysms and intravascular radiotherapy.

The event is being held today in the Cannon Caucus Room of the Cannon House Office Building from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The formal portion of the program in which Senator Breaux and Representative Thomas will speak will begin at 11:15 a.m.

A global leader in the medical technology industry, Guidant Corporation provides innovative, minimally invasive and cost-effective products and services for the treatment of cardiovascular and vascular disease. For more information on Guidant''s products and services, visit the company''s web site at www.guidant.com.