Millions of baby boomers on the cusp of becoming seniors are about to enter a health care system that not only isn't ready for them, but may even discourage them from getting quality care.
A report on the health care outlook for the 78 million baby boomers about to begin turning 65 found that:
- There aren't enough specialists in geriatric medicine
- Insufficient training is available
- The specialists that do exist are underpaid
- Medicare fails to provide for team care that many elderly patients need
The study said Medicare may even hinder seniors from getting the best care because of low reimbursement rates, a focus on treating short-term health problems rather than managing chronic conditions, and lack of coverage for preventive services.