Obama's health Bill poised for final approval

The biggest shake-up in the US health care system in almost 50 years passed its toughest Senate test today with a vote that all but assures its final passage this week.

The landmark legislation, backed by Barack Obama, overcame Republican delaying tactics on a 60-40 vote.

The Bill will extend coverage to more than 30million Americans, while outlawing insurance company practices such as denial of benefits on the basis of pre-existing medical conditions.

The President hailed the progress as he flew home on Air Force One from the Copenhagen climate change summit.

Watching the vote in the visitors' gallery was Vicki Kennedy, the widow of Senator Edward Kennedy, who championed healthcare reform for more than 40 years.