Democrat says Medicare dispute resolved as House leaders solidify support for health bill

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Democrat says Medicare dispute resolved

WASHINGTON — A group of lawmakers had threatened to oppose President Barack Obama’s health overhaul bill because of a dispute over Medicare payments to some doctors and hospitals.

But the group’s leader says the problem has been settled.

Rep. Peter DeFazio, D-Ore., said the administration has agreed to temporarily increase payments to health care providers in parts of the country where there have been complaints about low rates.

He says the change will be in the health care bill when the House votes on it Sunday, and that administration officials have promised to make the changes permanent by 2012.