Latest KFF Health News Stories
Longer Looks: Despite Health Law, Costs Still Overwhelming For Some
This week’s articles come from The New York Times, CNN, The Huffington Post, Forbes Magazine and The Oregonian.
Bill Clinton On Medicare: ‘There Were No Cuts To Benefits At All’
As part of his 50-minute defense of the Obama administration’s record, the former president praised Obama’s health policies, asking, “Are we better off because President Obama fought for health care reform? You bet we are.”
Biz Groups Push For Answers On Minnesota Exchange
The head of the largest business group in Minnesota has a message for both Democrats and Republicans as the state attempts to plan a health insurance exchange: We need answers, fast.
First Edition: September 6, 2012
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations, including health policy highlights from the Democratic National Convention as well as dispatches from the states.
Study: Decision Aids Show Promise In Reducing Medical Procedures
While policymakers debate complex changes to reduce health spending, promoting patients’ involvement in treatment decisions could have an immediate effect. A new Health Affairs report about decision aids — materials given to patients to help educate them about treatment options — shows they can help hold down costs by reducing demand for medical procedures. “The […]
Today’s Headlines – Sept. 5, 2012
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations, including reports on how health reform is playing a role in presidential politics, both during the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C., and in a new GOP campaign ad. Politico: Dems Wear ‘Obamacare’ Proudly Democrats gathered in Charlotte this week are fighting to reclaim the term […]
Convention News: Dems Embrace Health Law
In speeches from the podium and in the buzz from the convention floor, it was apparent on the first day of the Democratic National Convention that delegates and speakers aimed to reclaim the health law as an important accomplishment of the Obama administration.
Party Platforms Reveal Two Very Different Visions For The Nation
The Democratic platform, which was released Tuesday, includes many health care policy references, but is light on specifics about what health initiatives would come during a second Obama term.
Latest Round Of Health IT Regs Will Be Topic Of Capitol Hill Hearing
The House hearing is planned in order to give lawmakers a chance to review a proposed rulemaking regarding incentives for so-called “meaningful use” of health information technology.
Same Illness, But Very Different Treatment Costs
A new study published in the September issue of Health Affairs focuses on the cost of care delivered by nearly 250,000 doctors to non-elderly adults.
The Associated Press reports this Medicare Part D news development.
As the Democratic convention began, a Republican-leaning non-profit organization unveiled a new advertisement criticizing the health law. Meanwhile, national health issues are picking up steam in House and Senate races.
Will Medicare’s Quality Incentives Be Big Enough To Make A Difference?
Incentives are among the quality issues coming to the fore as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services prepares to hand out bonuses and penalties based on how hospitals perform.
Ways And Means Panel To Review IRS Mission In Health Law
Several outlets report on issues related to the federal health overhaul.
Viewpoints: Anti-Abortion Democrats Praise Health Law; A Defense Of The Medicare Cost-Cutting Board
A selection of editorials and opinions on health care from around the country.
Abortion Rights Supporters And Foes Pack Texas Hearing On Funding Planned Parenthood Clinics
The women’s health services provider, meanwhile, asks a federal appeals court to reconsider a ruling that would allow Texas to exclude clinics affiliated with abortion providers from getting funds from the Medicaid Women’s Health Program.
Democrats Focus On Women’s Health Issues, Abortion Rights
Pointing to both the health law and GOP policy positions, Democrats were steady in making their case to women voters.
Maine Sues CMS Seeking Medcaid Cuts Resolution
Maine — unhappy with how long a decision is taking — is suing the federal government over its request to lower Medicaid eligibility.
Mich. Officials To Appeal Ruling Stopping Pay Deductions To Cover School Retirees’ Health Care Costs
Michigan officials will appeal a ruling that declared unconstitutional a deduction of school employee pay to help pay post-retirement pension health care costs.
State Roundup: Mass. Cost-Containment Law Could Harm Provider Credit Ratings
A selection of health policy stories from California, Massachusetts, Maine, Missouri, Florida, Georgia and Wisconsin.