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Europe Advances Access to Safe and Legal Abortions
25 days ago•Source: politico.eu
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2.035 min•26 days ago
Hochul Considers Signing Medical Aid in Dying Bill
Governor Kathy Hochul is expected to sign the Medical Aid in Dying Act in New York, allowing terminally ill patients to request life-ending medication, after reaching a legislative compromise. The bill, supported by a majority of New Yorkers but opposed by religious groups, includes provisions such as a video request, waiting period, and mental health evaluation, though amendments may weaken some of Hochul's initial demands.
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CDC Acting Director Advocates for Splitting MMR Vaccine into Three Shots
The Hill•3 months ago
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Scientists Uncover New Method to Prevent Cancer
The Economist•4 months ago
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Missouri and Ohio See Drop in Childhood Vaccinations, Raising Outbreak Concerns
Originally Published 4 months ago — by Missouri Independent
Missouri's kindergarten vaccination rates have fallen below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity, dropping to 90%, which raises concerns about potential measles outbreaks and public health risks, especially amid rising exemptions and misinformation.
CDC to Resume Overdose Prevention Funding Amidst Political Delays
Originally Published 5 months ago — by The Hill
The CDC is restoring full funding for its Overdose Data to Action program, which had faced delays and partial funding under the previous administration, aiming to better track and reduce drug overdoses including fentanyl, with concerns raised about transparency and impact on communities.
Medicare and Hospitals Clash Over Outpatient Care and Payment Policies
Originally Published 5 months ago — by The Hill
The Trump administration's CMS proposed expanding a policy to require Medicare to pay the same rate for outpatient services regardless of delivery location, targeting hospital reimbursement practices and aiming to save billions, though hospitals oppose the move citing patient care complexities.
RFK Jr. Challenges CDC's COVID Vaccine Recommendations for Children and Pregnant Women
Originally Published 7 months ago — by CNBC
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has stopped recommending routine Covid-19 vaccines for healthy children and pregnant women, sparking controversy and concerns about increased health risks and reduced vaccine access, especially for vulnerable groups like pregnant women and infants. Experts warn that this decision could undermine public health efforts and complicate vaccine coverage and affordability.
Anthem Reverses Anesthesia Coverage Cap After Backlash
Originally Published 1 year ago — by CBS News
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield has reversed a controversial policy that would have limited anesthesia coverage during surgeries, following backlash from physicians, lawmakers, and the American Society of Anesthesiologists. The policy, which was set to affect plans in Connecticut, New York, and Missouri, would have denied claims for anesthesia exceeding estimated procedure times. Critics, including Connecticut Senator Chris Murphy, argued it would burden patients with unexpected medical debt. Anthem clarified that the policy was intended to align with clinical guidelines and not to deny necessary anesthesia services.
Trump's Second Term: Implications for Healthcare and Public Health
Originally Published 1 year ago — by STAT
The Trump administration's impact on the health care industry remains uncertain as different factions within the Republican Party vie for influence. The pro-business wing favors deregulation and lower taxes, while the populist wing is critical of large corporations, including pharmaceutical companies. Potential policy changes could affect insurers if Affordable Care Act subsidies expire and hospitals if Medicaid cuts lead to more uninsured patients.
"Physician Burnout and Pay Disparities Highlighted in 2023 Study"
Originally Published 1 year ago — by Fortune
A new survey reveals a burnout crisis among U.S. doctors due to low pay, high workloads, and a labor shortage, threatening the health care system. Around 81% of physicians feel overworked, with many considering early retirement. Administrative burdens and a significant gender pay gap exacerbate the issue. Solutions like increased education funding, loan forgiveness, virtual visits, and AI tools for administrative tasks are suggested to alleviate the crisis.
"FTC's Noncompete Ban Set to Transform Healthcare and Boost Wages"
Originally Published 1 year ago — by The Hill
The FTC's decision to ban noncompete agreements is expected to significantly impact the health care sector by empowering clinicians and potentially lowering health care costs, but it raises concerns among private practices about increased competition and staffing challenges. The rule, set to take effect on September 4, faces opposition from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and may not fully apply to nonprofit hospitals.
"Feds Unveil Portal for Reporting Anticompetitive Health Care Practices"
Originally Published 1 year ago — by Department of Justice
The Justice Department, Federal Trade Commission, and Department of Health and Human Services have launched an online portal, HealthyCompetition.gov, for the public to report potentially unfair and anticompetitive health care practices. This initiative aims to promote competition in health care markets, lower costs, and ensure fairer access to quality care for all Americans. Complaints will be reviewed and may lead to formal investigations, and privacy and confidentiality policies are in place to protect the information submitted through the portal. This is part of the Biden-Harris Administration's efforts to address anticompetitive practices in the health care sector and ensure economic opportunity and fairness for patients, providers, payers, and workers.
"Retirees' Top Financial Concern: Healthcare Costs Trump All Others"
Originally Published 1 year ago — by USA TODAY
Many older Americans, including baby boomers, are finding that their accumulated wealth may end up being depleted by health care costs, leaving little to pass on to younger generations. Rising out-of-pocket health care expenses, including premiums, copays, and uncovered services, are taking a toll on retirees' savings. With the significant wealth transfer predicted to occur in the coming years, researchers suggest that a large portion of this wealth may ultimately end up in the medical system. As health care costs continue to rise, many individuals are struggling to afford necessary care and are facing financial stress as they navigate retirement and aging.