Latest KFF Health News Stories
Noting Measles Prevention Is Critical, Bhattacharya Promotes Vaccine Uptake
The acting CDC director said the agency is taking steps — “surging” resources and fostering outreach — to stem the spread of measles cases in the U.S. Jay Bhattacharya’s support for the vaccine comes as cases are confirmed in Colorado, South Carolina, and California.
High Court Signals That It May Support Gun Rights For Marijuana Users
The argument centers on a federal law that bars people who consume illegal drugs from having firearms. Also in the news: rectal cancer rates, balance in aging, and more.
CMS Suspends Elevance From Medicare Advantage Plans, Cites Noncompliance
Starting March 31, Elevance Health no longer may enroll people in its Medicare Advantage plans after it failed to submit required data about members’ health conditions over a seven-year period. The suspension will not affect the 1.9 million people already enrolled.
Minnesota Sues HHS, CMS In Fight Over $243M In Medicaid Funds
The Trump administration wants to temporarily withhold some Medicaid funding from Minnesota, citing fraud concerns. State officials warn the move could force cuts to health care for low-income families.
First Edition: Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
Supreme Court Weighs Law Governing Gun Ownership, Marijuana Use
The government contends the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals erred when it threw out the indictment against a gun owner who admitted cannabis use, arguing such use makes it illegal to own firearms. Meanwhile, as more states legalize marijuana, cases of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (recurring bouts of severe stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting) are on the rise.
Opinion writers tackle these public health topics.
Concierge Care Doctor, Pediatrician Added To CDC Vaccine Advisory Panel
Dr. Sean G. Downing offers “adult and pediatric vaccination” to his patients, while Dr. Angelina Farella has pushed back against the covid vaccination. Meanwhile, states are making moves to ensure their residents maintain access to vaccinations.
Ahead Of Medicaid Work Rules, States To Spend Millions Upgrading Systems
An Associated Press analysis of budget projections in more than 25 states found that the cost for necessary technology improvements and additional staff is likely to exceed $1 billion as states head toward the 2027 launch of Medicaid work requirements.
Planned Parenthood To Offer Cosmetic Procedures To Offset Funding Cuts
Federal Medicaid reimbursement cuts have left the organization with revenue gaps. Planned Parenthood hopes to close these and generate enough revenue to subsidize its health care offerings with treatments such as Botox, IV hydration, and even laser hair removal.
Emergency Rule Goes Into Effect In Florida, Slashing Access To HIV Meds
Eligibility for the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP), as well as insurance coverage of the medication Biktarvy, has been tightened. ABC News reported that the emergency rule is in effect for 90 days and cannot be renewed unless a rule is proposed to implement the changes through formal administrative rulemaking.
RFK Jr. Touts Liver, Cheap Cuts Of Meat To Meet Updated Dietary Guidelines
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. advised that the way to afford red meat, which is now at the top of the food pyramid, is to shift from prime cuts to “cheaper cuts of steak that are very, very affordable.” Plus, what RFK Jr. had to say about President Trump’s glyphosate order.
First Edition: Monday, March 2, 2026
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
Cigna Acquires Pharmacy That Supplies Prescription Drugs To 10% Of Hospitals
The acquisition of CarepathRX adds to Cigna’s ever-growing push for vertical integration and greater control over the flow of pharmaceuticals through the U.S. health care system. Plus: Novartis settles a lawsuit with Henrietta Lacks’ estate; Europe uses minipigs to test drugs; and more.
86 Dreamers Deported, 261 Detained In Immigration Crackdown, DHS Confirms
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals recipients — those who arrived in the United States before the age of 16 — are protected under U.S. law, Democratic senators argued as they called on the Department of Homeland Security to provide more information about the removals.
Longer Looks: Interesting Reads You Might Have Missed
Each week, KFF Health News finds longer stories for you to enjoy. Today’s selections are on aging, trisomy 18, Morgellons disease, the war in Ukraine, and more.
Opinion writers examine these public health issues.
Casey Means’ Surgeon General Confirmation Isn’t A Sure Thing
Two Republican senators on the health committee say they have not decided whether to support the wellness influencer’s bid to become the country’s top doctor. Three others, including Republican Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, are mum on how they will vote. Plus, others weigh in on the nominee.
FDA To Offer Its Workers Monetary Incentives For Faster Drug Reviews
The bonus program is designed to reward reviewers who find ways to be more efficient. The pilot program presentation stressed the importance of maintaining quality. Plus: The Trump administration has put a nationwide moratorium on new suppliers for certain medical equipment.
Instagram To Alert Parents If Teens Search Suicide Content Frequently
Instagram announced Thursday that it will begin alerting parents who are enrolled in the company’s parental supervision program if their teenagers are repeatedly searching for terms related to suicide or self-harm. Plus: Demand for the 988 crisis hotline is on the rise.