The reason it's like this is BECAUSE of Medicare, i.e., government insurance.
And it will get worse. Much, much worse.
I'm a little floored that the attitude has changed from "THERE ARE NO DEATH PANELS YOU STUPID RETARDS" to "ahem...there have always been death panels, so they're okay!"
the truth is there are no 'death panels' as portrayed by health care reform detractors. there is no tribunal one has to go before to receive care.
however, there is currently rationing. those with means have access to the health care they want, those without do not.
and all those that believe they're safe because of their insurance get to look forward to the day when they become too expensive and their insurer finds a way to kick them off the roles or deny coverage.