Choteau Acantha in Choteau, Montana

Cost of health care soars amid calls for private action

The article argues rising health costs strain American families with Social Security data showing 1976 health spending at 139.3 billion, up 17 billion from 1975, and hospital prices tripling since 1965. It warns federal takeover would worsen costs, urging private sector measures like in-house facilities, bulk drug purchases, and board involvement, while noting limited current private efforts. Also includes excerpts from a Chile trip letter and a Montana legislative note.