Can You Use Market Forces For Medicare Reform Without Being Cruel?

One the biggest criticisms of Paul Ryan's approach to Medicare is the inadequacy of the vouchers. It is possible to use the "magic of the market" without inadequate vouchers. For instance you could keep Medicare largely the same, but offer higher deductible alternatives. These could be in same form as Medicare with much higher deductibles and co-pays, or a similar regulated plan from the private insurance market. You then give any senior who takes a cheaper alternative a cash payment for the difference.

If a senior qualifies for Medicare but decides to go the higher deductible route, they ration their own care in much the same way they would in Paul Ryan's plan. Then we can use the "magic of the market" without putting health care out of reach of low income seniors.