US health care costs will nearly double by 2020

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US health care costs will nearly double by 2020

AP file photo
AP file photo

WHAT: America’s health care bill will jump from $2.7 trillion this year to $4.6 trillion in 2020. It will take $1 of every $5 in the economy instead of the current $1 out of $6 and go from $8,650 per capita up to $13,710.

WHY: Medicare’s nonpartisan Actuary Office said health care spending grows faster than the economy mostly because an aging society consumes more services. Most health dollars go for care of the sickest people.

GOVERNMENT COSTS: By 2020, government health care spending at all levels will be nearly half the total tab, up from 45 percent. Obamacare will be a minor factor because many newly insured will be younger, healthier and cost less.

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URL: http://www.sfexaminer.com/opinion/daily-outrage/2011/07/us-health-care-costs-will-nearly-double-2020?quicktabs_1=0