The Important News Was On Page 22

The front page of today’s Plain Dealer featured stories about algae, UAW workers second guessing their recent strike, and lead safety rules for child care centers.  Other stories were teased at the very top and bottom of the page.  But the news that will impact millions of Americans and a significant number of Greater Clevelanders was buried on Page 22.  Did you find it?  We now know the important Medicare changes for 2020.

• Medicare Part B Premium - $144.60, an increase of $9.10 per month
• Medicare Part A Deductible - $1,408
• Medicare Part B Deductible - $198, an increase of $13

The Associated Press article by Ricardo Alonso-Zaldivar cited a statement from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) blaming these premium and deductible increases on “drugs administered in doctors’ offices.  Those medications are covered under the Part B outpatient benefit and include many cancer drugs”.

There was no mention of government funding, or that Medicare is unable to negotiate drug pricing, or any of the other issues contributing to the rising costs of health care.  Perhaps those are being held in reserve for the 2021 increases.

And when those increases are announced this time next year, don’t be surprised if they won’t be found in a Sunday paper on Page 22.

DAVE

www.CunixInsurance.com

Picture – Ready For The Birdcage – David L Cunix