WASHINGTON, Oct 30, 2008 (UPI via COMTEX) -- U.S. lawmakers in Congress are
expected to battle over Medicare next year as program spending increases, The
Wall Street Journal said.
The newspaper said it is unclear whether Medicare will be dealt with alone or as
part of a wider healthcare overhaul. The rising federal budget deficit will make
it difficult for either of the presidential candidates to implement proposed
plans to expand coverage for the uninsured.
The report said Congress is expected to look at a cut in doctors' fees for
Medicare that is scheduled to take effect at the end of 2009. Lawmakers may also
address a rule barring the government from bargaining directly with
pharmaceutical companies over drug prices.
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Copyright 2008 by United Press International