It’s rumored that there will be no cost of living adjustment (COLA) for 2010. And the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) is saying that there might not be another COLA until 2013.

But Medicare Part B (doctor’s insurance) premiums will continue to increase. There is no slowdown in health care costs. Most current Social Security recipients are protected from having their benefits reduced due to Part B premium increases under a “hold harmless” provision in the law.

Medicare Part B premiums are set up to cover about 25% of the cost of Part B insurance. The premium increases with COLA’s for 2010 to 2012 were projected to be $103 going up to $109.
Because 75% of those currently on Medicare won’t have their premiums increased, the FEDS have come up with a really equitable(?) way to make up for the loss.

All newly entitled Medicare beneficiaries will carry the brunt of the load. Their Medicare premiums in 2010 is projected to be $119, for 2011 $123, and for 2012 it is projected to be $128.

By 2012, a newly entitled Medicare recipient will be paying $259.20 more for Part B insurance than someone that is currently entitled to Medicare!

Just because of their date of birth or date of entitlement to disability.

For the same coverage!

Unfortunately, this is typical of our government. Chose a small group, with little or no voice and stick it to them.