Morning Briefing
Summaries of health policy coverage from major news organizations
McConnell Shows No Sign Of Stroke, Seizure: Capitol Doctor
Politico: Capitol Doc: McConnell Tests Show No Evidence Of Seizure Disorder, Stroke, Parkinson’s
The Capitol’s top doctor told Mitch McConnell on Tuesday that “there is no evidence” he suffered a stroke or has a seizure disorder following his public freeze in Kentucky last week. Capitol physician Brian Monahan outlined extensive outside medical evaluations of McConnell after the episode, in which the Senate minority leader stopped talking for roughly 30 seconds in a media availability. In a letter to McConnell, Monahan recommended “no changes in treatment protocols” for his recovery from a March fall that left the Kentucky Republican with a concussion. (Everett, 9/5)
NPR: McConnell Reportedly Not Suffering From Stroke Or Seizures, Says Capitol Doctor
In his letter, Monahan says his examination of McConnell on August 30 included "several medical evaluations: brain MRI imaging, EEG study, and consultations with several neurologists for a comprehensive neurology assessment." (Snell, 9/5)
More news from the federal government —
Axios: 1 In 3 HHS Appointees Leave For Industry Jobs, Study Finds
One-third of political appointees to the Department of Health and Human Services go work for the industry they oversaw immediately after departing their government job, according to a comprehensive new study examining health care's revolving door. (Millman, 9/6)
In military health news —
Military Times: Former VA Leaders Ask Public To Call Vets To Help Prevent Suicide
All seven living former Veterans Affairs Secretaries are joining with a coalition of advocacy groups to call for all Americans to participate in National Warrior Call Day this November in an effort to help prevent veteran suicides. The event — set for Nov. 12, the day after national Veterans Day ceremonies — is designed to highlight the estimated 17 veterans a day lost to suicide and prompt members of the public to take a role in reaching out to veterans. (Shane III, 9/5)
If you are in need of help —
Dial 9-8-8 for 24/7 support from the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. It's free and confidential.
Military.com: VA Failed To Process 56,000 Requests To Update Veterans' Dependents Dating As Far Back As 2011
The Department of Veterans Affairs said Tuesday it failed to properly process 56,000 requests from veterans to add or remove dependents -- some dating back to 2011. The agency discovered the mistakes while looking into a technical problem that caused headaches for roughly 900 veterans trying to file online appeals on their PACT Act claims decisions. (Kime, 9/5)
