Republicans and Democrats are at an impasse over how to come up with $10.5 billion to prevent Medicare premiums from skyrocketing for millions of seniors next year.
Republicans want to cut overall federal Medicare spending to pay for the fix, according to a House source. But that proposal is a nonstarter with Democrats. Meanwhile, Republicans have refused to support a bill by Democrats that would keep premiums for Medicare Part B, which covers doctor’s visits and outpatient treatment, at current levels. The Democrats’ bill is not paid for.
For now, the chances for a compromise look dim. And time is running out.
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