Health Care System Not Ready For Boomers?

WASHINGTON (AP) - A new report says millions of baby boomers are
about to enter a health care system for seniors that not only isn't
ready for them, but may even discourage them from getting quality
care.
The findings of an Institute of Medicine committee report on the
health care outlook for the 78 million baby boomers about to begin
turning 65 include the conclusion that Medicare fails to provide
for team care that many elderly patients need.
It also says that there aren't enough specialists in geriatric
medicine.
The study also says Medicare may even hinder seniors from
getting the best care because of its low reimbursement rates.
However, the American Medical Association says that seniors'
access to Medicare in coming years "is threatened by looming
Medicare physician payment cuts."

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)