| House Averts 2007 Physician Cuts |
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On December 8th, the U.S. House passed legislation to prevent a scheduled 5 percent cut in 2007 Medicare physician payments, and instead freeze payment rates for one year. Approved in a 367-45 vote, the bill sets aside funds to help avert projected payment cuts in 2008. The measure would extend the geographic price cost index to maintain payment levels for physicians in rural areas. It would also establish a new quality reporting program that would begin in July. The Senate is expected to consider the measure over the weekend before |