Pay-fix bill likely before 2010, but it probably won't be permanent

Why This Topic Matters

Medicare payment updates can affect physician reimbursement planning, practice budgeting, and expectations for future federal policy action. Readers who track Medicare policy and legislative developments will want to understand the likely timing and scope of any temporary or longer-term fix.

Article Sections

1. Expected Medicare payment fix

   Discusses the near-term outlook for congressional action related to Medicare physician payments and the likelihood of temporary relief.

2. Failed Senate bill and SGR context

   Summarizes the recently rejected legislation and places it in the context of the broader federal payment formula issue.

3. Permanent fix still possible before 2012 election

   Covers commentary on whether a more lasting policy solution could reemerge in the future and the general political conditions surrounding that possibility.