Currently there exists in the literature and in the media much debate and angst over the solvency and future of Medicare and Medicaid (and Social Security, from which Medicare premiums are paid).

The federal debt is immense and growing by the minute, and Medicare contributes to that debt. Clearly, a federal budget that has a large deficit (debt) is not a balanced budget.

Additionally, the number of Medicare beneficiaries is expected to increase dramatically over the next five to ten years.

With this in mind, discuss the current concerns over the inability of the Medicare/Medicaid health plans to remain solvent for years to come in the context of the current economic situation in the United States, and in light of the origins of the Medicare/Medicaid program.

What do you think is the most pressing cause for the concern and what do you think (if anything) would ultimately fix it?