65338 Federal Register / Vol. 60, No. 243 / Tuesday, December 19, 1995 / Notices

divestiture and incurring civil penalties

for failure to make a timely divestiture.

Attempts to define in advance the

field of eligible acquirers under a

divestiture order are unnecessary, at

best, potentially inefficient and possibly

even anticompetitive. It is an inefficient

use of resources to attempt to assess in

advance the competitive effects of a

transaction that Devro might or might

not propose (especially if the exclusion

covers more than one firm), even if the

transaction-specific information

necessary to our merger analysis were

available. As a practical matter, any

such exclusions will be based on

something less than an adequate factual

examination of the various possible

proposed divestitures and will

necessarily involve the risk of excluding

firms that might have been acceptable

and even procompetitive acquirers. That

risk is unnecessary and should be

unacceptable in view of the requirement

to obtain the Commission’s approval

before any divestiture can take place

and the availability of other sanctions

for failing to make a timely divestiture.

[FR Doc. 95–30834 Filed 12–18–95; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 6750–01–P

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND

HUMAN SERVICES

Administration on Aging

Statement of Organization, Functions,

and Delegations of Authority

This notice amends Part B of the

Statement of Organization, Functions,

and Delegations of Authority of the

Department of Health and Human

Services (HHS), Administration on

Aging (AoA), as follows: continues the

Office of the Assistant Secretary for

Aging; establishes two Offices, the

Office of Program Operations and

Development, and the Office of

Governmental Affairs and Elder Rights;

the operating grant programs (Titles III

and VI) and the developmental grant

program (Title IV) are placed under the

Office of Program Operations and

Development; all inter- and intragovernmental cooperative programs,

domestic and international, as well as

the elder rights services of Titles II and

VII are placed under the Office of

Governmental Affairs and Elder Rights;

the executive secretariat and policy

coordination functions are moved to the

Office of the Assistant Secretary;

supervision of the Regional Offices is

moved to the Director, Office of Program

Operations and Development; planning

functions are moved to the Office of

Management; and the former Office of

the Deputy Assistant Secretary for

Program Operations and

Intergovernmental Affairs, Office of the

Deputy Assistant Secretary for Program

Development and Elder Rights

Programs, Office of Field Operations,

and Office of Policy Coordination and

Analysis and the division structure

under the Office of State and

Community Programs and the suboffices under the Office of Program

Development are abolished.

The language to implement these

changes is as follows: Part B, Chapter B,

‘‘The Administration on Aging,’’ as

published in the Federal Register on

September 13, 1991 (56 FR 46620);

amended on December 24, 1992 (57 FR

61433); and further amended on March

2, 1993 (58 FR 12040) is amended as

follows.

Delete B.00 and replace with the

following:

B.OO Mission

The Administration on Aging, an

Operating Division of the Department of

Health and Human Services, is the

principal agency designated to carry out

the provisions of the Older Americans

Act (‘‘OAA’’ or ‘‘The Act’’) of 1965, as

amended, 42 U.S.C. 3001 et seq. Serves

as the effective and visible advocate for

older persons within the Department of

Health and Human Services and with

other Federal departments and agencies.

Directly assists the Secretary in all

matters pertaining to problems of the

aging. Advocates for the needs of older

persons in program planning and policy

development within the Department

and in other Federal agencies. Gives

priority to older persons in greatest

economic or social need. Develops

standards and issues best practice

guidelines; disseminates information;

provides technical assistance; and

initiates policy related to services

funded by the Department and provided

to older persons. Advises the Secretary,

Department components and other

Federal departments and agencies on

the characteristics, circumstances and

needs of older people and develops

policies, plans and programs designed

to promote their welfare; under Title III

of the Act (45 CFR Part 1321)

administers a program of formula grants

to States to establish State and

community programs for older persons;

administers a program of grants to

American Indians, Alaskan Natives and

Native Hawaiians to establish programs

for older Native Americans under Title

VI of the Act (45 CFR parts 1326 and

1328). Provides policy and procedural

direction, advice and assistance to

States and Native American grantees to

promote the development of State and

Native American administered,

community-based systems of

comprehensive social services for older

persons. Administers long term care

ombudsman and protective services

programs, legal services development

programs, and outreach, counseling and

assistance programs for older people

under Title VII of the Act. Approves or

disapproves State plans and Native

American funding applications.

Administers programs of training,

research and demonstration under Title

IV of the Act. Administers national

centers for service development and

assistance, and information

dissemination benefitting older persons.

Promotes through the State and Area

Agencies on Aging and Indian Tribal

Organizations a national communitybased long term care program for older

persons. Develops and issues program

designs, guidelines, standards and

assistance to State and Area Agencies,

Indian Tribal Organizations and

nutrition providers to support Titles III

and VI nutrition services and

disseminate nutrition education

material.

Delete B.10 and replace with the

following:

B.10 Organization

The Administration on Aging is

headed by the Assistant Secretary for

Aging and consists of:

Office of the Assistant Secretary

Congressional and White House

Liaison

Executive Secretariat and Policy

Coordination

Office of Governmental Affairs and

Elder Rights

Office of Elder Rights Protection

Office of Management

Division of Budget and Finance

Division of Personnel and Planning

Division of Grants and Contracts

Management

Division of Information Resources

Management

Office of Program Operations and

Development

Regional Offices on Aging

Office of State and Community

Programs

Office for American Indian, Alaskan

Native and Native Hawaiian

Programs

Office of Program Development

Delete B.20, A–I, and replace with the

following:

B.20. Functions

A. Office of the Assistant Secretary (BA)

The Office of the Assistant Secretary

serves as the focal point for OAA

programs through the development,
Federal Register / Vol. 60, No. 243 / Tuesday, December 19, 1995 / Notices 65339

coordination and administration of

those programs nationwide. Serves as

the effective and visible advocate within

the Federal government to ensure the

rights and entitlement of the elderly.

Conducts active public education of

officials, citizens, and the aged to ensure

broad understanding of the needs and

capabilities of the aged.

Sets national policies, establishes

national priorities, ensures policy

consistency, and directs plans and

programs conducted by AoA. Advises

the Secretary, HHS agencies, and other

Federal departments and agencies on

the characteristics, circumstances, and

needs of older people and on policies,

plans and programs designed to

promote their welfare. The Deputy

Assistant Secretary is the Assistant

Secretary’s primary associate in carrying

out the mission of the agency,

particularly in the advocacy and policy

negotiation role within the Federal

government.

Serves as an advocate for older people

with voluntary and private

organizations. Collaborates with other

Federal agencies to assist older persons

by the development and

implementation of interagency

agreements. Coordinates joint interests

and initiation of projects with other

Federal agencies and State and local

government entities. Provides liaison

with the Federal Council on the Aging

and other Federal advisory committees

focused on the aging. Works with

national aging organizations,

professional societies, and academic

organizations to identify mutual

interests and plan voluntary and funded

approaches to meet the needs of older

persons. Ensures affirmative action

throughout the Aging Network in

employment and services delivery.

Congressional and White House Liaison

(BA1)

Coordinates all liaison activities with

Congress and with the print and

electronic media. Manages AoA’s media

relations and legislative liaison

activities.

Develops legislative proposals,

testimony, background statements, and

other policy documents for use by the

Assistant Secretary in activities related

to legislation. In coordination with the

DHHS Office of the Assistant Secretary

for Legislation, analyzes proposed and

enacted legislation related directly or

indirectly to older people, including

legislation directly affecting OAA

programs. Through an automated

legislative information system tracks

bills related to the aging. Develops and

issues status reports regarding key

legislative developments to

Headquarters and Regional Office staff,

the network of State and Area Agencies

on Aging, and Indian Tribal

Organizations.

Coordinates with the Office of the

Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs,

including planning and implementing

strategy for relations with the news and

other information media; initiates media

outreach activities and responds to all

media inquiries concerning AoA

programs and related issues.

Executive Secretariat and Policy

Coordination (BA2)

Responsible for policy coordination

concerning programs and services under

the OAA, including long-term care

initiatives and services. Serves as the

communications center for AoA,

ensuring that issues requiring the

attention of the Assistant Secretary,

Deputy Assistant Secretary or AoA

Executive Council are identified on a

timely and coordinated basis. Monitors

the response of other AoA units in

developing necessary documents for the

Assistant Secretary’s review and

provides assistance to staff on the

content and style of special

assignments. Operates the agency-wide

paper and electronic correspondence

and assignment tracking and control

system and provides technical

assistance on standards for control of

correspondence and memoranda.

Manages the clearance system and

reviews documents for consistency with

the Assistant Secretary’s and the

Secretary’s assignments, previous

decisions on related matters, and

editorial standards. Refers

unprecedented policy questions to the

appropriate subject matter office.

Develops and maintains agency-wide

mailing lists.

In conjunction with the Immediate

Office of the Assistant Secretary,

implements public education activities

for Headquarters and Regional Offices to

achieve AoA program objectives in

coordination with other AoA units;

develops and distributes publications

and audiovisual materials about older

people and prepares and issues

brochures, fact sheets, exhibits and

films on the needs and concerns of older

persons and measures to improve the

circumstances, available services, and

environment for the older population.

Develops special information

campaigns to inform older people and

the general public about issues,

problems and benefits important to

older people. Fosters, plans and

coordinates ceremonies and celebrations

related to the elderly. Prepares the AoA

Annual Report to the President and

Congress.

Maintains official copies of all policy

and information issuances and data

collection instruments; ensures their

proper clearance before issuance and

annually reviews them for currency and

compliance with law and regulations.

Reviews all materials prepared for

Federal Register publication and

ensures their compliance with

guidelines. Serves as AoA’s liaison with

the Executive Secretariats in the Office

of the Secretary and other HHS units

regarding AoA program, policy and

special administrative matters. Receives

and sorts internal mail for AoA

headquarters components.

Provides liaison with OMB for the

management of the agency paperwork

burden reduction program. Coordinates

clearance of OAA Titles II, III, IV, VI

and VII program regulations within AoA

and with appropriate HHS offices, and

review of those regulations by OMB.

Prepares and processes clearances for

collection of information, and assures

compliance with related standards,

procedures and policies.

Serves as liaison with the Office of the

General Counsel, Office of the Inspector

General and the General Accounting

Office on all program matters other than

those related to grants or procurement

management. Reviews requests for

information under the Freedom of

Information Act and arranges for

appropriate responses, in coordination

with the HHS Freedom of Information

Act Officer.

Responds to written, phone and

personal inquiries from all sources

dealing with services and needs of the

aging.

B. Office of Governmental Affairs and

Elder Rights (BA–1)

Develops and maintains effective

relationships with government entities

and their representatives at the Federal,

State and local levels to develop a

unified policy toward, and promote, the

aims of the Older Americans Act,

especially as they relate to a

community-based system of long-term

care for the aging and disabled; oversees

development of more responsive service

systems through intergovernmental and

private sector initiatives and

partnerships to address age-related

issues and concerns. Coordinates AoA

fraud, waste and abuse investigation

and elimination, and related activities.

Chairs the Assistant Secretary’s

Business and Aging Leadership

Roundtable of representatives from

private industry and national business

and aging organizations. Oversees the

international liaison and coordination

functions of AoA. Stimulates and

coordinates AoA international activities
65340 Federal Register / Vol. 60, No. 243 / Tuesday, December 19, 1995 / Notices

and coordinates AoA international

activities with Departmental and other

Federal agencies and State and national

organizations concerned with

international aging matters. At all levels,

from national to the local service

delivery level, develops methods and

relationships to articulate the problems

and concerns of the elderly to

organizations beyond the traditional

network of agencies and works with

these organizations to be more sensitive

and responsive to age-related needs and

issues.

Directs intergovernmental affairs

activities and develops and maintains

effective relationships with other

governmental departments and

agencies. Plans, negotiates, facilitates,

and updates, as appropriate,

memoranda of understanding with other

departments and agencies to promote

agreements and cooperative

relationships and ventures that address

policies and services affecting the aging

population.

Implements Section 203(1) of the

OAA by coordinating, advising,

consulting with and cooperating with

the head of each department, agency

and instrumentality of the Federal

Government proposing or administering

programs or services substantially

related to the objectives of the OAA.

Oversees the consultation process by

which agency heads must consult with

AoA before establishing programs or

services related to the OAA. Plans and

implements the process for the

collaboration of all Federal agencies

with AoA in the execution by those

agencies of programs and services

related to the OAA. These activities are

focused primarily on older individuals

(particularly low-income minority older

people) and the functions and

responsibilities of the State and Area

Agencies on Aging.

The Director carries out the functions

of the Office of Long-Term Care

Ombudsman Programs established in

Section 201(d)(1) of the OAA. Serves as

the effective and visible advocate within

the Department and with other

departments and agencies of the Federal

Government regarding all Federal

policies affecting older residents of long

term care facilities; reviews Federal

legislation, regulation, and policy

respecting long-term care ombudsman

programs and makes recommendations

to the Secretary and Assistant Secretary;

coordinates the activities of AoA with

other Federal, State and local entities

relating to long-term care ombudsman

programs; prepares an annual report to

Congress on the effectiveness of services

provided by State long-term care

ombudsman programs; investigates the

operations of any Federal law

administered by HHS that may

adversely affect the health, safety,

welfare, or rights of older individuals;

and establishes standards for the

training of State long-term care

ombudsman staff.

B.2 Office of Elder Rights Protection

(BA–11)

Develops and carries out the

ombudsman, elder abuse prevention,

legal assistance development, and

benefits outreach, counseling and

assistance provisions of Titles II and

VII-A of the OAA throughout the Aging

Network, including administration of

the National Ombudsman Resource

Center and the National Center on Elder

Abuse, and advising the Assistant

Secretary on the operation of those

Centers. Reviews State Plans to

determine eligibility for funding under

Sec. 705 of the OAA and recommends

approval or disapproval to the Assistant

Secretary. Implements Title VII-A in the

field through provision to Regional

Office staff guidance and information

concerning AoA programs, and the

development and interpretation of Title

VII program regulations and policy;

ensures the implementation of guidance

and instructions concerning long-term

care ombudsman, prevention of elder

abuse, elder rights and legal assistance

development and outreach, counseling

and assistance programs.

Implements Title VII-A in the field by

the provision to Regional Office staff of

guidance and information concerning

the ombudsman, elder abuse

prevention, legal assistance

development, and benefits outreach,

counseling and assistance provisions of

Titles II and VII-A of the OAA, and

interpretation of regulations and policy

implementing those programs. Fosters,

oversees, assists, and assesses the

development of State-administered long

term care ombudsman, elder abuse

prevention, legal assistance

development, and benefit counseling

programs for the elderly as authorized

under Title VII-A of the OAA.

Establishes, administers and evaluates

the National Ombudsman Resource

Center and the National Center on Elder

Abuse.

Provides specialized input on Title

VII-A programs to long range planning,

operational plans and the budget

process. Responsible for the

implementation of regulations and

policy on Title VII-A of the OAA.

Develops program plans and

instructions for AoA Regional Offices

and State and Area Agencies to improve

the Title VII-A protection and

representational programs funded under

the OAA.

C. Office of Management (BE)

Reports to the Deputy Assistant

Secretary for Aging. Advises the

Assistant Secretary in the areas of

internal administration and

management of AoA. In response to

Federal statutes, regulations and

Departmental policies and instructions,

provides leadership, policies and

procedures for effective and efficient

management throughout AoA, including

such areas as budget, finance, grants

administration, personnel management,

procurement, material and facilities

management, management systems,

information resources management,

telecommunications and similar

administrative management facilitation

services. Responsible for all

management and administrative

reviews, analyses and controls within

AoA required by statute or regulation,

such as the Federal Managers Financial

Integrity Act (FMFIA). The Director

serves as the AoA Chief Financial

Officer (CFO) and, on behalf of the

Assistant Secretary for Aging, performs

the duties assigned to AoA under the

Chief Financial Officers Act of 1990,

including the development of the CFO

5-year plan and status report. Manages

all planning activities in AoA, including

those responsibilities assigned by the

Government Performance and Results

Act of 1993 (GPRA). Conducts

management analysis and automated

systems development activities for AoA

and serves as the principal AoA staff

examining the AoA organization.

Provides technical assistance and

guidance to Headquarters and Regional

Office units in the development,

implementation and maintenance of

administrative and grants management

systems and audit resolution.

Division of Budget and Finance (BE1)

Provides and coordinates

management support services involving

budget formulation and execution, and

financial management. In coordination

with AoA program offices, formulates

and presents budget estimates; executes

apportionment documents; plans,

directs, and coordinates financial and

budgetary programs of AoA. Provides

guidance to AoA program offices in

preparing budgets, justifications, and

other budgetary materials. Prepares

budget documents on behalf of the

Assistant Secretary for presentation to

Departmental management, the Office of

Management and Budget (OMB), and

Congress. Assists in planning for and

presenting the budget before OMB and

the Congress. Solicits, obtains and
Federal Register / Vol. 60, No. 243 / Tuesday, December 19, 1995 / Notices 65341

consolidates information and data from

other AoA offices for testimony at

hearings before these bodies in

coordination with the Office of the

Assistant Secretary. Analyzes the budget

as approved by the Congress and

apportioned by OMB, obtains input

from program offices and recommends

for the Assistant Secretary’s approval a

financial plan for its execution. Makes

allowances to AoA offices within the

guidelines of the approved financial

plan. Develops and maintains an overall

system of budgetary controls to ensure

observance of established ceilings on

both program—including all formula,

discretionary grant accounts, and

Salaries and Expense funds; maintains

administrative control of funds against

allotments and allowances, and certifies

funds availability for all AoA accounts.

Prepares requests for apportionment of

appropriated funds. Maintains control

of allotted funds against current

obligations, and maintains separate

financial operating plans for each of the

Regional Offices. Prepares spending

plans and status-of-funds reports for the

Assistant Secretary.

Acts as AoA’s coordination point with

the Office of the Secretary and AoA

organizational units on policy and

regulatory issues involving travel

management, develops and interprets

AoA policies on travel, and provides

support services to AoA components for

travel management.

Provides analysis and coordinates

accounting reports for AoA. Manages

funds for salary and expense accounts.

Tracks financial status of all AoA

program and salary and expense funds.

In meeting the Assistant Secretary’s

priorities and instructions, with

appropriate input from AoA

organizational units, develops financial

operating procedures and manuals,

including directing the implementation

within AoA (headquarters and regions)

of Departmental and other Federal fiscal

policies and procedures. Participates in

program development and

implementation plans where there are

budgetary implications; serves as the

AoA liaison with the Office of the

Secretary and OMB on all budgetary

matters.

Division of Personnel and Planning

(BE2)

Develops and interprets AoA goals,

priorities, and strategies. Prepares the

AoA strategic plan, long and short-range

plans, operational plans; implements

the Government Performance and

Results Act of 1993, and customer

service activities AoA-wide; provides

interpretation and guidance for

implementation of these plans and

activities to all AoA units; and reviews

all new and changed policy documents

for consistency with AoA long-range

goals and strategies. Adjusts goals and

strategies accordingly. Provides

guidance and technical assistance to

AoA units in developing operational

plans, particularly in developing

measurable objectives and indicators

reflecting program and organizational

performance. Coordinates with the

Office of the Assistant Secretary and all

AoA units, and Departmental staff

offices on planning issues and

development. By means of this system,

coordinates the development of

implementation strategies and

subsidiary plans as well as processes for

monitoring progress toward stated

objectives.

Develops, recommends and

implements a management review

system for the purpose of assessing

organizational progress in implementing

GPRA, strategic and customer service

priorities, and of encouraging

appropriate action by managers at all

levels; provides analysis of individual

organization and AoA-wide progress;

identifies problems and issues for action

by the Assistant Secretary and Senior

Staff; suggests alternatives for resolving

issues where progress is unsatisfactory

and provides the Assistant Secretary

with recommendations to facilitate

decision-making.

Initiates and develops AoA

administrative and human resource

management policies, procedures and

instructions. Plans, organizes and

conducts management studies of the

AoA program, staff and organization.

Plans, organizes and conducts indepth studies of organization structures,

functional statements, job structure,

staffing patterns, management and

administrative information systems,

relevant legislative and regulatory

authorities and/or workloads to analyze

staff, equipment, and systems resources

and needs and/or to determine and

measure work elements. Recommends

to the Assistant Secretary organization

changes; alternate staffing patterns; job

structure and/or functional statement

modifications; and staff, workload and

equipment distribution.

Manages the AoA management

improvement program. Assesses AoA’s

management methods and recommends

improvements to the Assistant

Secretary. Monitors AoA’s progress

toward approved goals. Incorporates

performance measures used to

implement GPRA.

Consistent with relevant OMB

Circulars, develops, defines and

implements management analysis and

reporting systems to provide for better

informed management decisions and

more equitable distribution of resources,

and through the Division of Information

Resources Management implements

these within the AoA automated

information system; manages official

AoA administrative oversight systems,

such as the personnel data base and the

administrative issuance process.

Performs assessments of paperwork

processing, reporting, and other systems

needs in AoA.

Monitors AoA’s compliance with the

Federal Manager’s Financial Integrity

Act (FMFIA), as defined by OMB

Circular A–123 (Management

Accountability and Control). Develops

protocols, develops and evaluates selfassessment models, and recommends

corrective actions. Monitors AoA’s

compliance with FMFIA instructions

and findings. Acts as the AoA liaison

with Assistant Secretary for

Management and Budget (ASMB) and

Office of the Inspector General (OIG) on

FMFIA matters. Prepares the AoA

annual FMFIA report to the Secretary,

the President and Congress.

Develops, implements and assesses

strategies on use of human resources

and the assignment of full-time

equivalent employment (FTE) ceilings.

Develops and administers the AoA

Position Management Plan and

functional statements. Acts as liaison

with ASMB and ASPER in coordinating

preparation of organizational proposals

requiring approval by the Secretary.

Maintains official organizational,

functional statement and delegation

files for AoA. Develops formal program,

administrative and personnel

delegations of authority for AoA based

on continuing management assessment

and on review and analysis of

legislation and regulations.

Provides technical assistance and

guidance to AoA managers and staff

regarding personnel management

matters. Reviews proposed requests for

personnel action and recommends

approval/disapproval of such requests.

Develops and monitors the annual

AoA employee training strategy and

budget, assuring that the common

training needs of AoA employees are

identified and implemented.

Coordinates Presidential Management

Intern, Federal Women’s and other

developmental programs with high

AoA/HHS priorities. Oversees AoA

training contracts.

Develops, manages, and assesses the

effectiveness of AoA employee

performance management, incentive

and award systems. Provides training

and technical assistance on current and

demonstration systems.
65342 Federal Register / Vol. 60, No. 243 / Tuesday, December 19, 1995 / Notices

Acts as AoA’s focal point with the

Office of the Secretary, other Federal

agencies, and AoA organizational units

on policy and regulatory issues

involving real and personal property,

space management, occupational safety

and health, material management, postal

management, and forms and records

management. Provides oversight and

direction to meet the administrative

needs of AoA components. Serves as

liaison with the Office of the Secretary,

the General Services Administration

(GSA), and outside vendors to provide

facilities services including acquisition

of facilities and equipment, personal

property management, inventory

control, and labor services. Administers

AoA’s personal and capitalized property

management program, including the

establishment and maintenance of

property accountability systems, the

storing and distribution of supplies, and

the movement of furniture and

equipment associated with the

relocation of offices. Develops and

implements AoA’s plans, guidelines and

activities for space and facilities

management, including identification of

and negotiations for space, and planning

and design of office layouts.

Responsible for the acquisition,

disposition, allocation, and budgeting of

space for AoA.

Serves as the AoA records manager,

providing guidance and assistance to

both Headquarters and Regional Office

staff regarding filing practices, retention

and disposition of records.

Division of Grants and Contracts

Management (BE3)

Serves as AoA’s focal point for

management, leadership and

administration of discretionary and

formula grants, and cooperative

agreements. Provides national policy

oversight and development for grant

management and administration

matters. Ensures that all grant awards

conform with applicable statutes,

regulations, and policies. Maintains

liaison and coordination with

appropriate AoA and HHS organizations

to ensure consistency between AoA

discretionary and formula grant award

activities, and the Department’s various

payment systems for grants.

For discretionary grants, ensures that

the administrative and financial

management aspects of grants

administration are carried out and

monitors grantee performance in these

areas. Provides support for and

processes all discretionary grant award

documents and negotiates grant budgets,

and makes all awards for AoA

Headquarters and Regional Offices.

Reviews discretionary grants after input

from AoA program offices, and

coordinates AoA grantee financial

management matters as necessary with

appropriate HHS and AoA units.

Issues and maintains control over

formula grant awards under the OAA,

and makes adjustments to previously

issued formula grant awards.

In coordination with all AoA

Headquarters and Regional Offices

having grant administrative

responsibilities: reviews and assesses

AoA formula grant award procedures;

directs and/or coordinates management

initiatives to improve formula grant

programs in financial areas; develops

proposals for improving the efficiency

in awarding grants and coordinating

financial operations among AoA

programs; establishes priorities and

develops procedures for grantee

financial monitoring; and, reviews

activities at the field level for all AoA

discretionary and formula grant

programs.

Following consultation with all

Headquarters and Regional Offices

having grant administrative

responsibilities, and with the approval

of the Assistant Secretary: develops

AoA instructions and procedures for the

administration of all discretionary and

formula grants, including those

approved in AoA Regional Offices.

Provides training and technical

assistance to AoA staff regarding grants

and provides overall guidance,

monitoring, and assistance to Regional

Offices in all areas of administrative and

financial management of grants.

Has primary responsibility for

developing policy issuances for grants

management in AoA, and reviews all

proposed AoA instructions and policy

issuances pertaining to grant matters

which are derived from Departmental,

OMB or other government-wide

issuances to ensure consistent policy

and interpretation within AoA

concerning grants management.

Functions as AoA liaison with the

General Accounting Office (GAO), the

HHS Office of the Inspector General and

the Department’s Office of Grants and

Acquisition Management on grant

matters. Assists at discretionary and

formula grant hearings before the

Departmental Appeals Board in

response to disallowances and other

financial claims by AoA or State

Agencies on Aging and other grantees.

For formula grant activities, develops

financial management standards for

State and Area Agencies and provides

guidance on and interpretation of 45

CFR Parts 74 and 92 to AoA staff. Based

on formula grants management policies

and procedures approved by the

Department, reprogram formula grant

funds as required under the OAA.

Responds to audit issues raised by

Department and General Accounting

Office audit reviews and ensures the

proper analysis and resolution of audit

findings by Regional Offices for final

action by the Assistant Secretary.

Coordinates receipt and processing of

all grant and contract related materials.

Division of Information Resources

Management (BE4)

Manages AoA’s Information

Resources Management (IRM) Program

and develops policies, plans, budgets,

standards and procedures related to it.

The IRM Director serves as the principal

IRM Official, responsible for delegations

of procurement authority and the

annual five-year long-range plan. Plans,

manages, maintains and operates AoA’s

automated information system,

including the LAN, personal computers,

software, and support systems and

services. Provides guidance and

technical assistance on all components

of the system and coordinates the

preparation of manuals and policy

issuances required to meet the

instructional and informational needs of

users of the system. Provides or

contracts for training of users in all AoA

systems, hardware and software. In

coordination with the Executive

Secretariat carries out the activities

required under the Paperwork

Reduction Act of 1980, as amended, as

the Federal Information Resources

Management Regulations, other Federal

regulations and Executive Orders and

DHHS/OS policies and procedures

apply the Paperwork Reduction Act to

automated information resources

management. Represents AoA on the OS

IRM Policy and Planning Board.

Responsible for IRM reviews; Federal

Information Processing resources

retirement and disposal; and conducting

and reporting of information resource

inventories.

Acts within the overall strategy,

annual workplan and budget approved

by the AoA Information Resources

Management Board, composed of

management representatives from each

major component of AoA.

Assesses the need for, and defines the

specifications for procurement of all

Headquarters and Regional Office IRM

hardware and software. Reviews and

recommends to the Director, OAM, the

decision for Headquarters and Regional

Office requests for Automatic Data

Processing (ADP) equipment and

services. Assesses, recommends and

defines the need to share ADP services

through inter-government, interdepartment and interagency agreements.
Federal Register / Vol. 60, No. 243 / Tuesday, December 19, 1995 / Notices 65343

Surveys specifications and other

literature, initiates requests for services,

and defines AoA’s need for support

services from private ADP vendors.

Recommends strategies, provides for,

and maintains systems integration in the

AoA corporate data enterprise. Designs

and institutes procedures for the

protection, security and integrity of the

AoA data, hardware and software.

Develops automation-based solutions to

improve efficiency and effectiveness of

methods used by AoA staff to carry out

work assignments and responsibilities.

The Division is responsible for

establishing and maintaining a secure

Internet presence. The Internet presence

will be used to provide a variety of

services to agency customers including

a World Wide Web Home Page

containing the latest information on

AoA activities, sending and receiving

grantee financial and performance

reports, and supporting an International

Aging Information Network that will

pull together various private non-profit

and federal/state/local/government

resources addressing aging related

issues. This network will be integrated

with the National Aging Information

Center (NAIC) which will provide online, direct public access to the NAIC’s

substantial data analysis capability for

professional aging services providers.

Provides telecommunications

planning, budgeting and management

for AoA Headquarters’ facilities,

including procurement, installation,

alterations, and maintenance. Provides

liaison with HHS and GSA on

telecommunications matters, and

provides assistance to AoA components

to identify telecommunications needs

and to use communications equipment

and systems.

D. Office of Program Operations and

Development (BF)

Reports to the Assistant Secretary for

Aging. Plans, directs and evaluates

agency program operations, including

the development and implementation of

a comprehensive, coordinated system of

services for older Americans.

Coordinates all AoA cross-cutting

program activities and initiatives.

Assures internal coordination of

programs. Assesses the need for,

develops strategies and priorities about,

and conducts activities for the

development of adequate knowledge for

improving the circumstances of older

people.

Provides leadership on behalf of

Titles III, IV and VI of the OAA, and

those parts of Title II of the OAA for

which the Office is responsible. Plans,

directs and evaluates the programs

under the OAA designed to provide

planning, coordination and services to

older Americans through grant programs

authorized under Titles III and VI of the

OAA. Assures the successful collection

of data and its analysis to demonstrate

program effectiveness. Assures that

program and service information and

trends are disseminated to advocates for

older persons. Provides technical

assistance to and education for State

and Area Agencies on Aging and Tribal

grantees in the development of plans,

goals, and system development

activities. Assures that statutory

requirements, regulations, policies, and

instructions are implemented for Titles

III and VI, and for the functions under

Title II for which the Office is

responsible.

Performs the following functions

under Title II: issues and enforces

regulations regarding conflicts of

interest in arranging the provision of

services under the Act, including

prohibiting such conflicts on the part of

Area Agencies on Aging; provides

direction to service providers to

improve data collection and analysis;

designs uniform data collection

procedures; assists State and Area

Agency volunteer coordinators, as

necessary, and encourages the effective

use and training of volunteers; consults

with State and Area Agencies and Tribal

grantees in the development of goals,

regulations, instructions and policies;

oversees the Nutrition Officer who

provides technical assistance and

guidance to Regional Offices, States,

Area Agencies on Aging and service

providers; establishes and convenes a

nutrition guidance council to assess

program effectiveness and to promote

nutrition and dietary standards; and

assures planning for and completion of

studies and evaluations.

Provides program expertise to the

Assistant Secretary for policy

development, advocacy and program

initiatives within its assigned program

areas.

Provides technical assistance to the

Headquarters and Regional Offices,

State and Area Agencies on Aging, and

other organizations on their statistical

data needs, uses of data, and methods of

collecting the data.

Funds and administers the National

Aging Information Center, which

compiles, publishes and disseminates

information on programs funded under

the Act, as well as demographic data on

the elderly population and data from

other Federal agencies on the health,

social and economic status of older

persons, and provides technical

assistance and training to State and area

agencies and to service providers on

State and local data collection and

analysis.

Assesses results of these activities to

develop utilization strategies. Promotes

information dissemination in

professional fields. Develops and

manages AoA technical information

clearinghouse to ensure dissemination

of information such as best practice

models, to exchange program

experience with the network of State

and Area Agencies on Aging, and to

coordinate technical information

dissemination requirements with other

national organizations in the field of

aging.

Supervises and provides technical

guidance to the Regional Offices as they

implement the national programs of the

OAA. Ensures that clear and consistent

guidance is given to all Regional Offices

on program and policy directives. Issues

substantive operating procedures to

guide Regional Office staff of AoA in the

conduct of their responsibilities;

establishes standards for performance

plans in the Regional Offices; regularly

assesses the performance of AoA

Regional Office staff against the

established standards.

E. Regional Offices on Aging (BFD1 to

BFDX)

Regional Offices on Aging are headed

by a Regional Administrator (RA) who

reports to the Director, Office of

Program Operations and Development.

Serve as the focal point for the

development, coordination and

administration of OAA programs within

the designated HHS region. Represent

the Assistant Secretary for Aging within

the region, and provide information for,

and contribute to the development of,

national policy dealing with the elderly.

Based on national policy and priorities,

establish field program goals and

objectives.

Serve as the effective and visible

advocates for the elderly to Federal

agencies in their geographic jurisdiction

to ensure the rights and entitlement of

the elderly; advise, consult and

cooperate with each Federal agency

proposing or administering programs or

services related to the aging; coordinate

and assist in the planning and

development by public (including

Federal, State, Tribal and local agencies)

and private organizations of

comprehensive and coordinated

services and opportunities for older

individuals in each community of the

nation; conduct active public education

of officials and citizens and the aged to

ensure broad understanding of the

needs and capabilities of the aged.

Monitor, assist and evaluate State

Agencies on Aging administering
65344 Federal Register / Vol. 60, No. 243 / Tuesday, December 19, 1995 / Notices

programs supported under Titles II, III

and VII of the OAA, and Indian Tribal

Organizations administering projects

under Title VI. Review OAA State Plans

on Aging and approve acceptable plans

or recommend disapproval to the

Assistant Secretary for Aging, as

appropriate. Recommend approval or

disapproval of regional Title IV

applications to the Assistant Secretary.

Review applications and recommend

approval or disapproval of Title VI

applications to the Assistant Secretary.

Advise the Assistant Secretary of

problems and progress of programs

through the Director, Office of Program

Operations and Development;

recommend to the Assistant Secretary

changes that would improve OAA

operations; evaluate the effectiveness of

OAA and related programs in the

Region and recommend to the Assistant

Secretary or take positive action to gain

improvement; and guide agencies and

grantees in applications of policy to

specific operational issues requiring

resolution. Facilitate interagency

cooperation at the Federal, Regional

Office, State and Tribal levels to

enhance resources and assistance

available to the elderly. Disseminate and

provide technical assistance regarding

nutrition guidelines and developments

to State and Area Agencies, Indian

Tribal Organizations and nutrition

service providers.

Monitor and assist State and Area

Agencies and Indian Tribal

Organizations in the implementation

and execution of the long-term care

ombudsman, elder abuse prevention,

elder rights and legal assistance

development, and outreach, counseling

and assistance programs, and the

implementation of elder rights under

Title VII of the OAA.

Office of State and Community

Programs (BF1)

Serves as the focal point within AoA

for the operation, administration,

management and assessment of the

programs authorized under Title III of

the OAA. Also carries out the following

responsibilities of Title II: encourages

and assists in the provision of

information to older people with the

need for Supplemental Security Income,

Medicaid and Food Stamps; implements

and oversees the supportive services

and nutrition programs; implements and

oversees the uniform data collection

procedures for States; implements and

oversees the responsibilities for

consultation with other Federal agencies

and with State and Area Agencies on

Aging.

Implements Title III of the OAA

through the development of regulations,

policies and guidance governing the

development and enhancement of

comprehensive and coordinated home

and community-based care service

delivery systems by State and Area

Agencies on Aging. Provides guidance

regarding State Plan processing and

approval, the process and criteria for

approval of States’ Intrastate Funding

Formulas for the allocation and

targeting of resources within States, and

implementation of the Interstate

Funding Formula for distribution of

Title III funds among States. In the field,

implements Title III through the

provision to Regional Office staff of

guidance and information concerning

AoA programs, and interpretation of

Title III program regulations and policy.

In addition, fosters, oversees, and

assesses the implementation of Title III

by States and Area Agencies through

guidance and direction to Regional

Office staff regarding program reviews,

compliance monitoring, program and

system development and enhancements.

Designs and provides training and

technical assistance for program

compliance, effectiveness, and

enhancement.

Develops and designs the criteria for

collecting, analyzing and distributing

program performance data on State and

Area Agencies’ implementation of OAA

programs, and prepares that data for

reporting to Congress, the public and

the National Aging Information Center.

Provides specialized input on Title II

and III programs to long-range planning,

operational plans and the budget

process. Develops program plans and

instructions for AoA Regional Offices

and State and Area Agencies to improve

Title III programs and to ensure that the

objectives of the OAA in fostering

independence and life with dignity are

met.

Develops policies, guidance and

technical assistance to State and Area

Agencies on Aging with respect to

programs under Title III of the OAA,

including the development and

implementation of comprehensive and

coordinated systems for supportive

services, congregate and home-delivered

nutrition services, the development and

operation of multipurpose senior

centers and the delivery of legal

assistance; provides guidance and

technical assistance to AoA Regional

Office Staff in the effective

implementation of programs under Title

III of OAA; designs, implements and

provides guidance and technical

assistance to State and Area Agencies on

Aging and service providers on data

collection and analysis (Section

202(b)(28)) and on uniform data

collection procedures for State Units on

Aging (Section 202(b)(29)); consults

with State and Area Agencies on Aging,

service providers and other appropriate

stakeholders in the development of

goals, regulations, program instructions

and policies regarding comprehensive

and coordinated supportive and

nutrition systems of services for older

individuals.

Develops regulations for use by State

and Area Agencies on Aging and local

service providers responsible for

programs under Title III of the OAA.

Carries out the functions of the

designated nutrition officer, who

coordinates nutritional services under

the Act and develops the regulations

and guidelines, and provides technical

assistance regarding nutrition to the

AoA Regional Offices, State and Area

Agencies, nutrition service providers,

and other organizations; in coordination

with the Office of Governmental Affairs

and Elder Rights, serves as the liaison to

the United States Department of

Agriculture and other Federal agencies

and organizations related to nutrition

policy and program issues.

Administers the State plan hearing

process required by Section 307(c)(1) of

the OAA and provides the analysis and

recommendations for the Assistant

Secretary’s decision resulting from the

hearing.

Provides timely and accurate

responses to requests for policy

interpretation and technical assistance

from Congress, State and Area Agencies

on Aging, and the general public.

Develops and operates a National

Aging Program Information System

focused on the information needs of

AoA and the Network on Aging to both

manage and advocate for the delivery of

effective and efficient services to the

elderly. Coordinates and conducts

operational studies, program analyses,

and evaluations on special issues of

concern to the Secretary, the Assistant

Secretary, Regional Offices, and State

and Area Agencies on Aging. Prepares

reports on program operations under

Title III for the Assistant Secretary,

other AoA offices, the Secretary, the

President, Congress and the public.

Through the analysis of State Plans,

evaluation findings and other relevant

material, identifies potential Title III

program and management issues and

develops recommendations to the

Assistant Secretary on possible

solutions.

Carries out the Title II responsibilities

related to facilitating the continuing

development, expansion and

improvement of home and communitybased service systems to be more

responsive at the community level to

meet the social and human service
Federal Register / Vol. 60, No. 243 / Tuesday, December 19, 1995 / Notices 65345

needs of the elderly. Develops and

implements special initiatives at the

national level for building strong

interagency, intergovernmental and

private sector partnerships to address

age-related issues and concerns and

promotes these initiatives throughout

the network of agencies involved with

older Americans.

Directs and assesses the development

under Title III of the OAA of Stateadministered, home and communitybased long-term care systems, and social

and supportive services for the elderly.

Initiates and encourages expansion of

the capacities of home and communitybased social service and health care

systems to deliver comprehensive

services to the elderly. Strengthens and

extends the development of the

continuum of care principle in local

community-based social services

systems for the elderly. Provides

technical and subject matter expertise

for the development of these systems,

targeted at enhancing the capabilities of

State and Area Agencies and local

service delivery programs to improve

their service to older people.

Assists State and Area Agencies and

local service delivery agencies to

analyze program trends and project

needs of the aging population, and to

develop strategies and specific

implementation plans to enable all

levels of the Aging Network to

anticipate and adapt to community

program needs in the future. Develops

policies, guidance and technical

assistance to the Aging Network of

States, Area Agencies, service providers,

national organizations, state

organizations, local organizations and

academia. Focuses primarily on the

development of systems of care at the

community or local level. Coordinates

with the Division of Program

Management and Analysis to achieve a

fully integrated approach for the

enhancement of systems of care

throughout the nation.

Assists in the collection and analysis

of demographic and socio-economic

information related to the aging.

Maintains a knowledge of data

generated by a wide range of

organizations; provides liaison with the

Federal Task Force on Aging Statistics;

in support of planning and program

requirements, performs routine and

special statistical analyses of data for

AoA offices, other Federal and nonFederal organizations, and the general

public.

Office for American Indian, Alaskan

Native, and Native Hawaiian Programs

(BF2)

On behalf of individuals who are

older Native Americans, serves as the

effective and visible advocate within the

Department, with other Departments

and agencies of the Federal

Government, and with State, local and

tribal governments regarding all Federal

policies affecting Native American

elders. Additionally, advocates and

promotes linkages among national

Indian organizations, national aging

organizations, and national provider

organizations with the goal of enhancing

the interests of and services to Native

American elders.

Recommends to the Assistant

Secretary policies and priorities with

respect to the development and

operation of programs and activities

relating to individuals who are older

Native Americans. The Office

coordinates activities among other

Federal departments and agencies to

ensure a continuum of improved

services through memoranda of

agreements or through other appropriate

means of coordination. Carries out the

following responsibilities of Title II:

evaluates the outreach under Title III

and Title VI and recommends necessary

action to improve service delivery,

outreach, and coordination between

Title III and Title VI services;

encourages and assists the provision of

information to older Native Americans

with need for Supplemental Security

Income, Medicaid, food assistance,

housing assistance, and transportation

assistance; develops research plans,

conducts and arranges for research in

the field of Native American aging;

collects, analyzes, and disseminates

information related to problems

experienced by older Native Americans,

including information on health status

of older individuals who are Native

Americans, elder abuse, in-home care,

and other problems unique to Native

Americans; develops, implements, and

oversees the uniform data collection

procedures for Tribal and Native

Hawaiian Organizations; and

implements and oversees the

consultation requirements of Title II as

they apply to Native American issues.

Chairs the Interagency Task Force on

Older Indians which is comprised of

representatives from the Federal

departments and agencies with an

interest in the welfare of individuals

who are older Indians and makes

recommendations to the Assistant

Secretary at six month intervals, to

facilitate coordination among Federally

funded programs and improve services

to older Indians.

Provides the Native American input

to the Office of Program Development

for inclusion in AoA’s research plan. In

addition, collaborates with the Office of

State and Community Programs on Title

VI—Title III coordination.

Provides input and feedback to the

Office of Program Development for the

development and operation of Resource

Centers on Native American Elders

which gather information, perform

research, provide for dissemination of

results of the research, and provide

technical assistance and training to

those who provide services to Native

American elders.

Provides specialized input on Title VI

programs and the Native American

components of Title II and Title VII–B

programs to other Offices for long range

planning, operational plans, research

and training, and the budget process.

Determines the Title VI grant amounts

from annual appropriations. Develops

testimony and background documents

concerning Native Americans for use by

the Assistant Secretary.

Serves as the AoA focal point for the

administration and assessment of the

programs authorized under Title VI and

the Native American Organization

provisions of Title VII–B of the OAA,

including administering grants,

cooperative agreements and contracts.

Implements the American Indian,

Alaskan Native and Native Hawaiian

programs in the field through provision

of program and policy direction,

training and oversight to the Regional

Offices in the execution of the Native

American components of their Title II,

Title VI and Title VII–B responsibilities.

Oversees the Regional Offices’

monitoring of Title VI grantees.

Arranges for and manages on-going

training and technical assistance for

Title VI grantees. Coordinates additional

training and technical assistance with

other projects managed by the Office

Program Development.

Office of Program Development (BF3)

Develops AoA plans and priorities for

evaluation of programs, with subject

matter input from appropriate units.

Manages contracting for mandated

evaluation projects and performs

intramural evaluation studies. Prepares

reports of the results of program and

impact evaluations conducted by and

for AoA, with technical input from

other AoA units.

Maintains information on programs in

other Federal agencies and national

voluntary agencies which have potential

for relating to research, demonstration

and training strategies.
65346 Federal Register / Vol. 60, No. 243 / Tuesday, December 19, 1995 / Notices

Plans, directs and evaluates activities

authorized under Title IV of the OAA.

Conducts activities for the development

of adequate knowledge for improving

the circumstances of older people.

Develops a knowledge base for policy

decisions and program development

and coordination through support of a

wide range of research, demonstration,

and training activities.

Prepares the planning documents for,

and coordinates the development of, the

annual discretionary funds program

announcement. Provides technical input

for Congressional and budget

presentations related to the research and

demonstration program. Evaluates

research, demonstration and training

grant and contract proposals; and

recommends approval/disapproval,

monitors progress, gives technical

guidance to and evaluates the

performance of grantees and contractors.

Analyzes and interprets project results

and recommends technical applications.

Promotes coordination of research and

demonstrations with other national,

field and local programs related to

aging.

Within overall AoA strategy and long

range plans, conducts continuing

studies and periodic reviews of

personnel needs and resources in the

field of aging. Plans and assesses AoA’s

activities to ensure trained staff for

programs serving older Americans.

Develops and monitors a national plan

for increasing these resources, and

prepares reports thereon for AoA, the

Federal Council on the Aging, the

Secretary, the President and Congress.

Administers a program through grants

and contracts for developing curricula

and providing training related to

preparation for professional, teaching,

research, and paraprofessional careers

in the field of aging. Makes grants for

planning, developing, and operating

multi-disciplinary centers of

gerontology designed to serve the

purposes set forth under Title IV of the

OAA, including the monitoring of such

grants on a continuing basis.

Develops standards, optional models,

and ‘‘best practice’’ suggestions on

services to the elderly for use by the

Regional Offices, and State and Area

Agencies on Aging. Develops technical

assistance material and in-service

training curricula concerning these

standards, models, and best practice

suggestions.

Provides technical input on research,

demonstration and training programs to

the AoA planning and policy

development activities, legislative

activities and the annual budget

development cycle. Participates in

Departmental and inter-departmental

activities which concern health and

social services; reviews and comments

on Departmental regulations and

policies regarding health programs and

institutional and non-institutional long

term care services.

Manages a program for the collection,

analysis, and dissemination of

information related to the needs and

problems of older persons. Develops

and coordinates initiatives with other

Federal agencies, national aging

organizations and universities to fill

gaps in information in the field of aging.

Reviews all products from AoA, the

OAA network, and other sources of

information on aging to identify new

findings which will be useful to older

people and professionals operating in

the field of aging. Determines the

relative utility of each product, its

potential users, and the most effective

way to disseminate information to users.

Dated: December 12, 1995.

Fernando M. Torres-Gil,

Assistant Secretary for Aging.

[FR Doc. 95–30732 Filed 12–18–95; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 4130–01–P

Agency for Health Care Policy and

Research

Meeting of the National Advisory

Council for Health Care Policy,

Research, and Evaluation

AGENCY: Agency for Health Care Policy

and Research, HHS.

ACTION: Notice of public meeting.

SUMMARY: In accordance with section

10(a) of the Federal Advisory Committee

Act, this notice announces a meeting of

the National Advisory Council for

Health Care Policy, Research, and

Evaluation.

DATES: The meeting will be open to the

public on Friday, January 26, from 8:30

a.m. to 5 p.m.

ADDRESSES: The meeting will be held at

the Madison Hotel, 1177 5th Street,

NW., Washington, DC 2005.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Deborah L. Queenan, Executive

Secretary of the Advisory Council at the

Agency for Health Care Policy and

Research, 2101 East Jefferson Street,

Suite 603, Rockville, Maryland 20852,

(301) 594–1459.

In addition, if sign language

interpretation or other reasonable

accommodation for a disability is

needed, please contact Linda Reeves,

the Assistant Administrator for Equal

Opportunity, AHCPR, or (301) 594–6665

no later than January 19, 1996.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. Purpose

Section 921 of the Public Health

Service Act (42 U.S.C. 299c) establishes

the National Advisory Council for

Health Care Policy, Research, and

Evaluation. The Council provides

advice to the Secretary and the

Administrator, Agency for Health Care

Policy and Research (AHCPR), on

matters related to AHCPR activities to

enhance the quality, appropriations, and

effectiveness of health care services and

access to such services through

scientific research and the promotion of

improvements in clinical practice and

in the organization, financing, and

delivery of health care services.

The Council is composed of public

members appointed by the Secretary.

These members are: Robert A. Berenson,

M.D.; F. Marian Bishop, Ph.D.; Linda

Burnes Bolton, Dr. P.H.; John W.

Danaher, M.D.; Helen Darling, M.A.;

Nancy J. Kaufman, M.S.; William S.

Kiser, M.D.; Robert M. Krughoff; Risa J.

Lavizzo-Mourey, M.D.; W. David Leak,

M.D.; Harold S. Luft, Ph.D.; Barbara J.

McNeil, M.D.; Walter J. McNerney,

M.H.A.; Edward B. Perrin, Ph.D.; Louis

F. Rossiter, Ph.D.; Albert L. Sui, M.D.;

and Ellen B. White. M.B.A.

There also are Federal ex-officio

members. These members are:

Administrator, Substance Abuse and

Mental Health Services Administration;

Director, National Institutes of Health;

Director, Centers for Disease Control

and Prevention; Administrator, Health

Care Financing Administration;

Commissioner, Food and Drug

Administration; Assistant Secretary of

Defense (Health Affairs); and Chief

Medical Director, Department of

Veterans Affairs.

II. Agenda

On Friday, January 26, 1996, the

meeting will begin at 8:30 a.m. with the

call to order by the Council Chairman.

The Administrator, AHCPR, will update

the status of current Agency issues and

program initiatives. Council will then

discuss the issues of health services

research work force and education,

public/private sector collaboration, and

the large grant review process. The

meeting will adjourn at 5:00 p.m.

Agenda items are subject to change as

priorities dictate.

Dated: December 7, 1995.

Clifton R. Gaus,

Administrator.

[FR Doc. 95–30742 Filed 12–18–95; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 4160–90–M