Latest KFF Health News Stories
Post-Election Rush On Long-Lasting Contraception Strains Already Tight Budgets
Clinics scramble to provide for women who are scared of what a Trump presidency means for their access to contraception. In other news, Iowa Republicans are set to take control of the legislature in January, which may mean more abortion restrictions in the state. And the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that abortion rates have fallen to the lowest level in decades.
Reviewing The First Week Of The Anthem-Cigna Merger Trial
Meanwhile, news outlets also report on the continuing personality clash between device makers and insurers; how employers reward workers who shop around for health care; and what is happening to coal miners’ health benefits.
Looking Inside Those Billion-Dollar Biotech Deals
The big biotechnology investments that are reported in headlines sometimes are more about hype than actual dollars on the table. Meanwhile, examining where fault lies in a recent clinical trial that went awry.
Promising Alzheimer’s Drug Failure Is Latest In Long String Of Disappointments
Eli Lilly’s solanezumab didn’t meaningfully beat a placebo in its late-stage trial, and some scientists are beginning to think they need to shift their focus away from the amyloid protein that builds up in the brain of those with Alzheimer’s.
Sen. Grassley Postpones Hearing On EpiPen Rebates To Government Programs
The move came after officials from Mylan, the company that makes the EpiPen, as well as federal Justice and health officials said they would not testify at this time.
21st Century Cures Bill May Get Vote This Week
The legislation boosts funding for the National Institutes of Health, provides $1 billion to states to fight opioid abuse and seeks to streamline how federal regulators assess the safety of new treatments.
Capitol Hill Begins Drawing Battle Lines For Potential Medicare Fight
Republicans are eyeing a Medicare overhaul as that they prepare to control both Congress and the White House. But Democrats vow to “stand firmly and unified” against any attempts to change the popular program.
Medicaid Expansion’s Unlikely Defenders: Republican Governors
The GOP governors who opted to expand Medicaid are now having to fight to retain a part of the health law that is so unpopular with other Republicans.
Promises Are Dangerous Things, And Other Lessons Trump Can Learn From Obama’s ACA Mistakes
The road to overhauling the health care system in America has not been smooth for President Barack Obama. Meanwhile, Politico talks with Heritage Foundation health policy analyst Ed Haislmaier about health care’s next chapter under President-elect Donald Trump’s administration, and a survey reveals the industry’s anxieties about Trump’s positions.
First Edition: November 28, 2016
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
Alone And Aging: Creating A Safety Net for Isolated Seniors
As numbers of vulnerable seniors without relatives rise, groups call for new efforts to navigate declines in physical and mental health.
No Immediate Changes To Your Obamacare Coverage
Despite President-elect Donald Trump’s promise to repeal the Affordable Care Act, state officials and advocates say Californians’ health plan is safe for now.
Pence Expanded Health Coverage As Governor, Now Threatens To Take It Away
Indiana’s Obamacare Medicaid expansion — with a conservative twist — may offer lessons for Republicans’ “repeal and replace” promise.
A Frenzy Of Lobbying On 21st Century Cures
Three lobbyists for every member of Congress in a push to pass a bill that increases research funding and speeds up approvals.
Viewpoints: Talking At Thanksgiving; Moving To Value-Based Care; Doctors And Torture
A selection of opinions on health care from around the country.
Perspectives: Don’t Expect New Diabetes Drugs To Ease Pricing Crunch
Read recent commentaries about drug-cost issues.
Alzheimer’s Drug May Help Beleaguered Pharma Industry To Close Out Year On High Note
News outlets report on stories related to pharmaceutical drug pricing.
Outlets report on health news from Georgia, Minnesota, Colorado, Ohio, Maryland, California and Florida.
Miami Program Helps Hispanics Prevent Or Manage Diabetes
The CDC has found that Hispanics contract diabetes at a higher rate than non-Hispanic whites and are about 50 percent more likely to die from diabetes or liver disease. In related news, a mobile app aims to help diabetics monitor their treatment plans.
Toys To Avoid At Christmas: Annual Report Identifies 44 Dangerous Items
From toxic chemicals to choking hazards to overheating risks, the Florida Public Interest Group comes out with its 31st listing of toys that pose dangers to kids.