Pursuant to the provisions of the Code of Virginia (Title 9, Chapter 38, §§ 9-311 through 9-316) establishing the Joint Commission on Health Care and setting forth its purpose, we have the honor of submitting herewith the Annual Report for the calendar year ending December 31,1997.

This 1997 annual report includes a summary of the Joint Commission's 1997 activities and legislative recommendations to the 1998 General Assembly, a report on "point-of-service" health plans, and an overview of health care issues facing Virginia and the nation. Copies of the legislation sponsored by the Joint Commission and passed by the 1998 General Assembly also are included.