Latest KFF Health News Stories
Insurers Collected Billions In Dubious Medicare Advantage Payments: Watchdog Report
A HHS watchdog reports that insurers like UnitedHealth, Humana were paid an estimated $7.5 billion last year from health risk assessments that diagnosed serious health conditions for which patients had no follow-up care. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services declined to crack down on the practice though.
Ohio’s 6-Week Abortion Ban Quashed
The judge from the Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas in Cincinnati admonished state Attorney General Dave Yost, a Republican, for circumventing the will of the people who voted to enshrine abortion protections in Ohio’s constitution.
Editorial writers delve into these public health topics.
Longer Looks: Interesting Reads You Might Have Missed
Each week, KFF Health News finds longer stories for you to enjoy. Today’s selections are on cancer, lead paint, “electrosensitive” people, and more.
While Bird Flu Cases Rise, CDC Says No Evidence Of Human-To-Human Spread
Confirmed cases of avian flu have risen to 31 in the U.S. with a new case reported in Missouri. The CDC says that its separate investigation of symptomatic health workers in the state has shown they were not infected with the virus and that there is no evidence yet of human-to-human transmission.
Higher Adverse Events Risk Linked To Broad-Spectrum Antibiotics Use: Study
A new study shows otherwise healthy adults who take broad-spectrum antibiotics to treat community-acquired pneumonia are more likely to suffer adverse drug events. Also in the news: evolution of covid, and the Alzheimer’s-Ozempic link.
First Edition: Friday, Oct. 25, 2024
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
Research Roundup: Maternal Covid; Lyme Borreliosis; Narcolepsy
Each week, KFF Health News compiles a selection of health policy studies and briefs.
Editorial writers discuss these public health topics.
Supreme Court Case On Transgender Care In Tenn. Could Have Ripple Effect
Two dozen states, including Tennessee, have banned hormone therapy for transgender minors. The Supreme Court will begin hearing a challenge Dec. 4, the outcome of which could have repercussions for other states. Meanwhile, Donald Trump and other Republican candidates are leaning into anti-trans messaging as the election nears.
National Licensing Board Scraps Skills Test For Prospective Psychologists
The organization now will explore whether it will move to a single-session certification exam that tests both knowledge and skills. News from around the nation comes from Pennsylvania, Maine, Louisiana, and elsewhere.
Insulin-Dependent Patients Scraping By As Demand For GLP-1 Drugs Soars
Diabetics who must have the medicine to survive fear drugmakers are neglecting their needs in favor of now-popular and profitable weight loss medications. Pharmaceutical companies maintain they are committed to supplying essential medications. Also in the news: duloxetine, retina implant, Eyebot, and more.
Change Healthcare Data Hack Deemed Largest Health Care Breach In History
According to the HHS’ Breach Portal, the cyberattack Change Healthcare experienced in February affected nearly 30% of the U.S. population. In the aftermath of the breach, Change Healthcare has lost customers, and it is unclear when all of its systems will be restored.
2 More Confirmed Bird Flu Cases In California: State Total Reaches 15
On Wednesday, the CDC confirmed two new human cases of avian flu in California, bringing this year’s total up to 27 nationwide. Meanwhile, Reuters reports on how an emergency order to protect against bird flu spread in dairy cows was quashed by state and industry officials earlier this year. And, more on the McDonald’s E. coli outbreak.
Folks 50 And Up Need Pneumonia Shot, 65 And Up Need 2nd Covid Jab: Panel
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices revised its recommendations in an effort to provide more protections for people most at risk of severe infection.
If Elected, These Two Doctors Would Be Only Pro-Choice OB-GYNs In Congress
As The 19th points out, 19 physicians serve in the U.S. Congress — 15 in the House of Representatives and four in the Senate. Currently, only two of them are OB-GYNs; both are male Republicans who oppose abortion. Plus: Stat looks at key races and ballot issues that could shape health care.
After Bruising Report, Inspector General Recommends Medicare Restrict Home Visit Payments
The Wall Street Journal reported on a new report from the OIG that found private Medicare insurers got about $4.2 billion in extra federal payments in 2023 for diagnoses from home visits the companies initiated, even though they led to no treatment. The Medicare agency disputed the report and said it disagreed with the recommendation.
First Edition: Thursday, Oct. 24, 2024
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
Perspectives: Big Pharma Is Swamping Small Biz; Stakes Are Huge On Nov. 5
Read recent commentaries about pharmaceutical issues.
Editorial writers delve into these public health issues.
