Latest KFF Health News Stories
Editorial. writers focus on these pandemic topics and others.
McKinsey Apologizes For Role In Opioid Promotions
The prominent consulting company vowed a review of its actions in helping Purdue Pharma promote the use of opioids. In other pharma industry news, a watchdog group wants the relationship between the FDA and Biogen investigated.
Cruises Encounter Rough Waters Again
A “cruise to nowhere” was forced to return to Singapore a day early after a man tested positive for COVID. Also: The Michigan-Ohio State football game has been canceled for the first time ever; a death after childbirth; outdoor therapy; and sex takes a hit during the pandemic, too.
Officials Crack Down On Partiers In Ohio, California
Also, updates on contact tracing in Nevada, marijuana laws in red states and more.
Security Flaws Found in GE Medical Devices
The security flaw was found in 104 types of radiological devices including CT scanners, X-ray machines and ultrasound devices, across GE product lines. In other industry news, a federal judge allows the Jefferson Health and Albert Einstein Healthcare Network merger to proceed.
Some Health Care Workers, Officials Feel Heat Of Public’s Glare
In Idaho on Tuesday, a Board of Health meeting in Boise was adjourned when members learned that protesters had gathered at their homes; a nurse in Oregon who had flouted COVID guidelines on TikTok will leave her job at Salem Health; and more.
Biden Outlines A COVID Response
President-elect Joe Biden laid out his plan to fight the pandemic: masks, vaccinations and opening schools.
Confusion Surrounds Possible COVID Stimulus Bill
Negotiations are fluid and what’s in the coronavirus stimulus package is still far from settled, from the amount people would get to waiving liability for employees’ health.
Surprise Medical Bills Legislation Hits A Snag
Yet another proposal for limiting surprise medical bills means little movement is expected from Congress. In other news, legislation to eliminate federal prescribing requirements is introduced.
‘Truly Dangerous’: Wave Of New Thanksgiving Cases Approaches
As signs emerge of the anticipated surge in Thanksgiving-driven infections, public health experts plead with Americans to take precautions ahead of the December holidays. In a heartbreaking story, a former Alabama state senator reportedly told his wife just before his death: “Sweetheart, we messed up. We just dropped our guard. … We’ve got to tell people this is real.”
Dual Events, Dueling Messages: Trump, Biden Paint Discordant Pictures Of Pandemic Future
The current and future presidents held concurrent public events Tuesday, but that’s where any similarities cease. At his vaccine summit, President Donald Trump claimed that the worst of the coronavirus crisis is over. President-elect Joe Biden, when introducing his selected health team, warned that the worst is yet to come.
White House Vaccine Summit Proclaims Success Of Operation Warp Speed
Meanwhile, when asked to clarify the executive order President Donald Trump signed at the event–prioritizing Americans first in vaccine distribution–vaccine czar Moncef Slaoui voiced his own puzzlement: “Frankly, I don’t know, and frankly, I’m staying out of this. I can’t comment,”
New Results Confirm AstraZeneca’s Half-Dose ‘Mistake’ Is 90% Effective
The partial results published in The Lancet on Tuesday confirmed that the two full doses given at least one month apart appeared to be 62% effective, while a half dose followed by a full dose was about 90% effective.
UAE Reports Chinese Vaccine Has 86% Efficacy, No Serious Safety Issues
China hopes to use its COVID vaccine in a number of countries to restore its image. Iran complains that U.S. sanctions hamper its ability to get vaccines.
US On Cusp Of First COVID Vaccine Approval
A crucial FDA open committee meeting is scheduled for Thursday. And if all goes as expected, a coronavirus vaccine could be authorized for emergency use in the U.S. by Friday. News outlets detail the timeline and potential problems.
Preparations For Vaccine Distribution Begun
The logistical preparations for the rollout of the Pfizer vaccine proceed as federal officials say distribution will begin within days of FDA approval. Shortages are expected.
UK Issues Warning After 2 People Have Allergic Reactions To COVID Shot
Both people are medical workers who have a history of significant allergic reactions. They are “recovering well,” a health official said.
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
What Seniors Can Expect When COVID Vaccines Begin to Roll Out
At least two vaccines could get federal emergency use authorizations this month. Nursing home and assisted living residents will be among the first to receive inoculations. Here’s a guide on how that rollout may proceed.
As More Red States Legalize Marijuana, Some Officials Try to Nip It in the Bud
Recreational marijuana may face resistance from GOP-dominated state governments despite being voted into law in Montana, South Dakota and Arizona.