Because of some quirks in our governmental accounting system, the Federal deficit will appear to be shrinking during the next several months.  This is a short term illusion.  Medicare continues to be an enormous future problem due to the baby boomers entering the Medicare system – participation will soar from 52 million to 66 million in 8 years- and due to the soaring cost per participant: from $11,500 to $15,151 per year. Total Medicare dollar outlay will increase 67% over 8 years.