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Democrats rally behind Medicare expansion as doctors warn of January pay cut

Good morning. Washington is talking about who Medicare should cover. Democrats are lining up behind plans they call "Medicare for More" and "Medikids," and one proposal would let people buy in as early as age 50. House leader Hakeem Jeffries laid out the party's push, though these remain ideas, not law.

At the same time, current coverage faces strain. Doctors are warning of a 2.31% Medicare pay cut set for January, which physician groups say could make it harder for seniors to see a doctor. Medicare is also keeping its freeze on new hospice and home health agencies, while existing providers may still grow. And in parts of Indiana and Montana, changing or departing health plans are forcing older patients to find new coverage.

Families are feeling the edges of the rules, too. Two reports describe how Medicaid's protections for married couples can fall away, and how a grandfather's cash gifts may now delay nursing home help.