Fed chief addresses healthcare and its costs

Ben S. Bernanke, chairman of the Federal Reserve, told a Congress symposium convened by the Senate Finance Committee that health spending would "rise relentlessly" unless lawmakers overhauled the healthcare system. Bernanke said Congress could establish an independent healthcare panel like the one used to recommend the closing of military bases. Congress could approve or reject the panel's recommendations, but not amend them, he added. Another alternative Bernanke presented was establishing a commission like the Federal Reserve Board to set health policy.