A bill to amend title II and XVIII of the Social Security Act to correct certain problems which presently limit the effectiveness of the medicare program and the availability of benefits thereunder, and to provide a review and study of the medicare program to determine additional ways of making such program work better from the standpoint of patients.

[AI summary unavailable — showing source text] Provides, under title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act, that payment may be made for durable medical equipment and for breast prosthesis and orthepedic shoes. Extends coverage of the medicare program to qualified individuals in the United States and Canada. Directs the Health Insurance Benefits Advisory Council to conduct a detailed review and study of the medicare benefits program, with special emphasis on: (1) determining the extent to which such programs serve the interests of patients thereunder; (2) identifying particular problems and problem areas thereunder; and (3) determining the legislative and administrative actions which need to be taken in order to make such programs work more effectively. Requires the Council to submit to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare for immediate transmission to the Congress a full and complete report on the study conducted pursuant to this Act.…