Morning Breakouts

Latest KFF Health News Stories

Out-Of-This-World Technology Co-Opted For Breast Cancer Research

Morning Briefing

Scientists see the potential for medical breakthroughs with the help of tools originally designed to monitor space and protect planets. In other public health news: vaccinations, Zika-related epilepsy, dragon’s blood, third-hand smoke and more.

Fishermen, In A Job That Takes A Toll On The Body, Hit Hard By Opioid Crisis

Morning Briefing

Ships have begun carrying anti-overdose medication as the industry tries to combat the problem. Meanwhile, in Las Vegas, those seeking clean needles will now be able to get them out of vending machines, and the Ohio dealer who caused more than two dozen overdoses in West Virginia is sentenced.

Wisconsin Seeks To Revamp Medicaid With Drug Tests And Premium Requirements

Morning Briefing

The state must seek federal approval for the changes. Meanwhile, in Kansas, several hospitals are in financial crisis, and their supporters blame the governor’s refusal to accept Medicaid expansion.

Pro-Trump Group Airs $3 Million Ad Campaign To Bolster GOP Repeal Push

Morning Briefing

The ads are running during the congressional recess in 12 House districts held by Republicans, some of whom supported the Obamacare repeal bill, others who opposed it and a few who didn’t take a clear stance.

Getting To Delivery Room A Harrowing Journey For Some Amid Rural Hospital Crisis

Morning Briefing

Because of financial strain, many rural hospitals are shutting down their labor and delivery services. Women in those areas are then faced with long drives to get to a safe place to deliver their babies. In other public health news: infectious diseases, strokes, young blood, genetic testing, fertility treatments, trauma care and more.

Many Desperate To Find Alternative To Opioids, But Pain Is A Pain To Research

Morning Briefing

As the opioid crisis rages on, there’s a rush to figure out ways to treat pain that doesn’t involve traditional painkillers. But that’s pretty hard. In other news, addiction experts are disappointed by the lack of forward movement from the president.

Lawmakers Strike Deal To Reauthorize FDA User Fee Agreements

Morning Briefing

The agreement extends the agency’s authority to collect fees from drug and medical device manufacturers. Without the fees, 5,000 Food and Drug Administration employees could be laid off and drug reviews would be prolonged.

When Reality And Political Philosophy Collide: A Look At Indiana’s Medicaid Expansion

Morning Briefing

As the state’s expansion model gains national attention, Politico investigates how both sides turned out to be wrong with their predictions. Outlets report on Medicaid news out of Ohio, Kansas and Missouri as well.