WASHINGTON

Abstract

Passage of the Medicare-Social Security bill was one of the last legislative acts of Congress before the lawmakers adjourned for a month —until January 15. Shortly thereafter, President Johnson signed the measure into law. Almost all of the medical profession's objections to the Administration's original medicare provisions were eliminated in Congress, and many provisions sought by the American Medical Association and other medical groups were contained in the final bill. Issues to be watched for in 1968 on Capitol Hill: • Extension of the Hill-Burton program of aid for hospital construction. There will be much discussion about the need for expansion and renovation of city hospitals and Congress will approve a hefty extension. • Also up for renewal are the regional medical programs for heart, cancer, and stroke, etc. • The health professions educational assistance act, the allied health personnel training act, and the nurse training act will be reviewed