Latest KFF Health News Content

Latest KFF Health News Stories

Insurance Coverage Improves In 20 States, Census Shows

KFF Health News Original

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HHS Touts Growth In Medicare Advantage Plans, Drop In Premiums

KFF Health News Original

Just days away from a House hearing where Republicans are likely to charge that the 2010 health law’s cuts to Medicare Advantage plans will cause insurers to leave the program and seniors to pay more for coverage, the Obama administration said Wednesday that as a result of the law seniors now have more of these […]

Today’s Headlines – Sept. 19, 2012

KFF Health News Original

Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations, including a series of reports detailing who makes up Romney’s so-called “47 percent” who get tax breaks and what federal assistance they receive — whether it is Medicare, Medicaid or another entitlement program. The Associated Press/Washington Post: Analysis: Romney Describes Government’s Role As Dramatically More Limited […]

Romney’s ’47 Percent’ Fuels Talk Of Who Gets Tax Breaks, Aid

Morning Briefing

Some news outlets report how the remarks underscore different views of the role of government by President Barack Obama and GOP challenger Mitt Romney. Meanwhile, Romney attempts to deflect criticism by going on the offensive, saying his comments help define the choice before voters.

Polls Offer Windows Into Campaign Challenges, Dynamics

Morning Briefing

A new round of polls indicates that, with seven weeks left of campaigning, President Barack Obama appears to be edging out GOP candidate Mitt Romney. However, the findings also highlight the political forces that could work for and against each candidate.

Report: Medical Home Model Should Have Physician At The Helm

Morning Briefing

A report issued Tuesday by the American Academy of Family Physicians urges the concept of medical homes as a solution to the looming primary care shortage, but argues that such practices should still be led by doctors.

Wis. Officials Say Medicaid Funding Will Need To Rise $650M Over Two Years

Morning Briefing

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services in a request to Gov. Scott Walker said Tuesday that the increase was needed because of rising health care costs, higher program enrollment and lower federal funding.

Minn. Governor Moves Forward On Insurance Exchange, Shifts Oversight

Morning Briefing

Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton is shifting responsibility for a key part of the federal health overhaul in his state — a health insurance exchange — to a different state agency. He’s also moving forward on implementing the exchange, he said Tuesday.

First Edition: September 19, 2012

Morning Briefing

Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations, including a series of reports detailing who makes up Romney’s so-called “47 percent” who get tax breaks and what federal assistance they receive — whether it is Medicare, Medicaid or another entitlement program.

Joint Commission Praises 620 Hospitals For Quality

KFF Health News Original

Updated at 1:10 p.m. on Sept. 20. The Joint Commission, the nation’s major hospital accreditation board, is releasing its annual list of hospitals that have excelled at adhering to basic procedures for treating common illnesses such as heart attacks and strokes. The commission is recognizing 620 hospitals  — 18 percent of those it accredits — as “top […]

Family Physicians Reject Suggestions To Have Nurses Lead Practices

KFF Health News Original

With a shortage of primary care providers looming, the idea of using nurses and physician assistants to fill the gap often appears to be gaining traction. But according to a report released Tuesday by the American Academy of Family Physicians, having more nurse practitioner-led medical practices is not a viable solution. “Perceived shortages don’t justify […]