Debt Deal May Hit Medicare

The Wall Street Journal reports:

“Medicare beneficiaries escaped direct cuts in Washington’s debt deal, but the agreement could eventually hit seniors and disabled Americans who rely on the program for medical coverage.

Health-industry lobbyists and policy experts say Sunday’s deal between the White House and congressional leaders effectively opens the door to another round of talks in which lawmakers are likely to weigh increasing the Medicare eligibility age and setting up a means test that might require wealthier people to pay more for the program.

A provision in the deal that allows for payment cuts to health-care providers who treat Medicare recipients could lead hospitals …”

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