Medical Society Elects Edelin As President

The New England Medical Society last week elected Dr. Kenneth C. Edelin, whose manslaughter conviction for a 1973 abortion was overturned last year by the Massachusetts Supreme Court, as its new president.

The society, an affiliate of the National Medical Society, represents most black physicians in the New England area.

Edelin's trial received widespread publicity when pro- and anti-abortion groups became interested in the case.

Anti-abortion groups hoped it would set a precedent making doctors criminally liable for performing late-term abortions that are now legal.

Edelin could not be reached for comment last night.