2008 Medicare Premiums Could Increase by 17%

In an article in the Palm Beach Post the TREA Senior Citizens League asserts that the Medicare Part B premiums in 2008 could increase by 17%, or $15.90, to $109.40 monthly.

2008's projected high premiums are based on the rapidly growing deficit between what program was expected to cost and the actual costs.

TREA noted that Part B premiums have increased 60 percent over the past five years while the Social Security cost of living allowance has increased 14 percent. If the 2008 projected increases occur, premiums will have increased 77 percent in six years, compared to a 15 percent increase in cost of living allowances.