We believe that the nation needs a publicly supported comparative effectiveness research program. Comparative effectiveness research yields evidence that doctors and patients can use to make better treatment decisions. It save lives, improves health outcomes, makes care safer, and encourages the wise use of healthcare dollars. These benefits make comparative effectiveness research a critical component of health reform. Comparative effectiveness research also enhances “personalized medicine” by helping to inform doctors and patients about which treatment options work best for subsets of patients and individuals with unique medical circumstances.