The US President Barack Obama is making a last-minute effort to secure approval of his landmark healthcare reforms by the House of Representatives. Mr Obama made a rare visit to Congress to try to persuade wavering members of his own Democratic Party. The bill will extend coverage to 36 million more Americans and provide affordable healthcare to 96 per cent of the population. Republicans oppose it.Mr Obama needs 218 votes, in the 435 member House. He has secured 205 votes by Friday evening and is negotiating for the other 13.