Congressional committees: congress at work.

Among many people, the term "committee" holds a negative connotation. In Congress, however, committees hold the key to passage of any piece of legislation. Understanding committee structure and function is essential in wielding influence on committee outcomes. This article is designed to better acquaint the ORL nurse with key health-related Congressional committees currently involved in drafting health care reform proposals. In addition, the path legislation follows from introduction to passage is schematically reviewed.