Current and future financial aid to students of medicine, osteopathy, and dentistry (MODs) is discussed in the context of federal health manpower objectives. Options for providing financial access to such students are analyzed. The report was prepared for the Senate Budget Committee in response to a request by Senator Lawton Chiles as part of Congressional consideration of the renewal of the Comprehensive Health Manpower Training Act of 1971. Federal involvement in health professions education may have three kinds of objectives; (1) increasing the aggregate supply of health professionals; (2) increasing access of students from all income levels to health professions careers; and (3) improving the geographic and specialty distribution of health professions. Future financial needs are discussed, along with the impact of major legislative proposals. Options for meeting MOD students' financial needs are included. (LBH)