U.S. Senator Mark Warner Visits Focused Ultrasound Center and Foundation

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Sen Mark Warner visits the FUSF Center at UVa

Virginia Senator Mark Warner vowed that he would go back to the Capital recharged to advocate for focused ultrasound after touring the UVA Focused Ultrasound Center and the Focused Ultrasound Foundation on March 19.

Senator Warner watched a demonstration of the technology and discussed current and future applications of focused ultrasound with the UVA Center leaders. Center Director Dr. James Larner thanked Warner for his early support of the Center, championing state funding when he was Governor of Virginia. Warner emphasized the importance of public investment in medical technologies like focused ultrasound to improve quality of life, decrease cost, and also to help boost the economy and fuel job creation.

“Focused ultrasound could be the next big thing in healthcare,” Warner said. “The research this team and others are doing here is world class. This is an incredible success story coming out of UVA.”

Several local media reported on the event.

Warner UVA FUS Center 3.19.2014 Newsplex

Senator Warner visits University Medical School – Cavalier Daily

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Following UVA, Warner visited the Focused Ultrasound Foundation to meet with the staff, board and council members and donors. Dr. Neal Kassell presented on the status of adoption of the technology, including the disparity in approved uses and research/treatment centers in the United States versus Europe. Warner discussed the challenges of maintaining government funding of research during a budget crisis and the need for reform to streamline the FDA review process.

Warner found the visit eye opening as it further cemented his support. “Seeing is believing,” he said. “After the demonstration and tour, I now understand the technology and its tremendous potential much better.”