Latest KFF Health News Content

Latest KFF Health News Stories

Providers Struggling To Find Good Balance With Opioid Prescriptions Get New Guidelines From National Academies

Morning Briefing

Since the country started cracking down on the opioid crisis, doctors and other medical professionals have tried to walk the fine line of making sure patients who need medication get it and not exacerbating an epidemic. National Academies scientists have offered a new framework that they warn shouldn’t be considered ironclad. In other news on the crisis: a drug distributor allegedly concealed security flaws that fueled the epidemic, the Sackler family fights to keep its name associated with Tufts, and more.

Report: Despite Scrutiny, Indian Health Services’ Attempts To Protect Patients From Abuse Still Come Up Short

Morning Briefing

A report from the Office of Inspector General for HHS found that the reforms were too narrow and weren’t implemented at all the facilities. The review came after it was revealed that the agency protected a doctor who was abusing young boys in his care for decades. Other Trump administration news comes from the CMS, Justice Department and FCC.

Pharma Still Reeling As House Passes Trade Deal Without Market Exclusivity Provision

Morning Briefing

The North American trade pact is moving swiftly through Congress. The legislation is noticeably missing a provision that would have granted market exclusivity for biologics for 10 years. The removal of the protection was a big win for Democrats and a huge loss for the pharmaceutical industry. In other news: an Ebola vaccine, nerve drugs, biotech stocks, a subscription model for medication, and more.

In Aftermath Of Court Decision, Threat Of Political Headache For GOP Recedes As Fate Of Health Law Remains In Limbo

Morning Briefing

Many questions remain following the appeals court’s decision to kick the case back down to a federal district judge, but the Affordable Care Act does remain intact for now. Meanwhile, Republicans get some political breathing room as they head into the 2020 elections because it’s unlikely the lawsuit will be in front of the Supreme Court anytime soon.