Washington (AP) The Bush administration is freezing a scheduled 10-percent fee cut for doctors who treat Medicare patients. That gives Congress time to stop the cuts after the July 4th recess.

The move also spares lawmakers from having to explain to seniors
Why they didn't do the job before leaving town.

The centers for Medicare and Medicaid services will hold doctors' Medicare claims delivered on or after July 1st until at least July 15th. Congress returns to session next week.

Almost every year, congress finds a way to block the cuts. Both parties blamed each other for failing to do so this time.