Latest KFF Health News Stories
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.
Maryland Prescription Drug Affordability Board Eyes Price Caps
Read recent pharmaceutical developments in KFF Health News’ Prescription Drug Watch roundup.
Walmart Prescription Deliveries Set To Reach Over 86% Of American Homes
Two weeks after Amazon announced it will open pharmacies in 20 new U.S. cities in 2025, Walmart introduced its prescription delivery service. Already live in six states, it is expected to be available in 49 states by the end of January.
Study On Importance Of Physicians’ Race In Infant Mortality Is Debunked
The findings in a 2020 study, which claimed Black babies treated by white doctors were twice as likely to die within 12 months, are being reevaluated. Survival is now thought to be linked to birth weight and not race. Also: lawsuits, the No Surprises Act arbitration, and new treatment for shingles.
Clear Poised To Break Into Health Care Industry With Facial Recognition Tech
Clear, best known for its fast-pass airport security technology, is trying to expand into the health care market using its facial recognition technology to help speed up insurance claim approvals and prior authorizations, even amid data privacy concerns.
Study Examines Respiratory Pattern’s Link To Anosmia, Other Health Issues
Sniff spikes, the study noted, might help researchers better understand some of the mental issues experienced by covid patients who have lost their sense of smell. Separately, researchers found that children too young to be vaccinated against covid were more likely to be hospitalized with infection.
Multistate E. Coli Outbreak Tied To McDonald’s Burgers Sickens 49 People
One person has died and 10 have been hospitalized. In other news, the aging impact of experiencing loss, research into a new concussion symptom, and more.
Tarver Will Take Reins At FDA’s Medical Device Division
Dr. Michelle Tarver, an ophthalmologist with a background in epidemiology, will lead the unit that reviews products key to medical diagnosis and surgery. Also in the news: legacy medical devices, wheelchair repairs, and more.
Harris: No Compromise On Abortion Rights, Even If GOP Controls Congress
“I don’t think we should be making concessions,” Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris said in an interview with NBC News. Meanwhile, Republicans push back against Democrats’ efforts to paint them as extreme on abortion, The Hill reports.
Despite Bans, Abortions Are Surging
The New York Times breaks down abortion data by states that enacted bans after the fall of Roe. Other news outlets look at legal and political efforts underway in Missouri, Maryland, and elsewhere.
First Edition: Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2024
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
After Dual Storms, Florida Sees Uptick In Flesh-Eating Bacteria Infections
So far, 76 people have become sick, and 13 of them have died, because of Vibrio vulnificus. The bacteria is commonly found in floodwaters after storm surges. Elsewhere, 46 people have been hospitalized because of food poisoning in Maryland, and New York City’s health commissioner has stepped down.
