Latest KFF Health News Stories
In Push For Better Market Position, Endo To Buy Par Pharmaceutical For $8 Billion
Dublin-based Endo is steadily consolidating its market share amid a wave of mergers of generic drug businesses.
Sen. Lindsey Graham To Join Crowded Field Vying For Republican Nomination
As Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., takes steps to launch his presidential bid, The Associated Press outlines his positions on the health law, abortion, Medicare spending and other issues. Also from the Republican campaign trail, Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal forms an exploratory committee and Texas Sen. Ted Cruz’s health insurance status again makes the news.
Doctor Group Pushes For ‘High Value’ Cancer Screening
In an effort to reduce some of the confusion associated with cancer screening, the American College of Physicians reviewed prominent cancer screening guidelines to find less intensive testing strategies that still garner broad expert consensus. The group focused on five specific tests.
Maine Lawmaker Urges Backup Plan If High Court Overturns Health Law Subsidies
Rep. Bruce Poliquin, R-Maine, is warning that, without a plan, consumers will likely face chaos in the insurance marketplace if the Supreme Court justices rule against this provision. Also in news from Congress, the markup of the “Cures” bill is slated to begin today while Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., introduces legislation aimed at high drug prices.
In Budget Compromise, Minn. Lawmakers Opt Against Changes To State Health Exchange
Republicans had sought to close down the troubled marketplace, called MNsure, and Democrats had hoped to make it a state agency. Also in news about state exchanges, the Kansas legislature is not contemplating any changes to help residents keep subsidies if the Supreme Court strikes them down on the federal health marketplace, and Vermont insurers are seeking a rate increase.
Florida Hospitals Reject Gov. Scott’s Plan For Profit Sharing
The governor’s proposal was meant to offer a way for some hospitals to withstand the loss of funding that the federal government has said will end soon, as well as the lack of increased revenues since the state has not opted to expand its Medicaid program. That expansion controversy is at the heart of a legislative impasse that has stalled the state budgeting process.
Medicaid Expansion Has Been Bigger Than Expected And Some States Fear Costs
The federal government is picking up all expenses for the new enrollees now but eventually 10 percent of that cost will fall to the states. Plus, states are on the hook for beneficiaries who have moved into Medicaid and qualified under old rules. Also, get a look at one community health clinic in Missouri, which did not expand Medicaid.
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
Viewpoints: GMO Foods; Bad Business Case For New Antibiotics; Need For More Black Doctors
A selection of opinions on health care from around the country.
News outlets examine health care issues in California, Indiana, Florida, Nevada, North Carolina, Virginia, New York, Maine, Maryland, Pennsylvania and D.C.
Minnesota Lawmakers Come To Terms On Health Spending Budget Issues
After months of contentious debate, Minnesota Democrats and Republicans quietly settled differences on key health spending issues in the waning hours of the legislature. News outlets also report on state budget news in California and New York.
HHS Audit Identifies Potential Medicaid Overbilling By Calif. Dentists
A report to be released today highlights the billing practices of 329 dentists and six orthodontists, which totaled an estimated $118 million for pediatric dental work in 2012. In addition, the Los Angeles Times reports on two California-based doctors — one who continues to sell unproven treatments even after his license was revoked, and another who was convicted in a prescription drug sting.
Vermont’s Health Care Reform Revenue Shrinks
Lawmakers agreed to a smaller health care reform compromise, which includes $760,000 in cost-sharing subsidies for low-income residents. The $3.2 million for the proposal would also be eligible for up to $3 million in matching federal funds.
Medical News Offers Promise On Shingles Vaccine, Lung Cancer Biopsies, Cystic Fibrosis
Recent studies and news reports look at a confusing choice for seniors as they contemplate whether to wait for a shingles vaccine that is close to being marketed. Elsewhere, news on a promising new technology for lung cancer and a possible drug regimen that could hold hope for cystic fibrosis patients — as well as a new machine that pushes the boundaries for health care.
Stem Cell Clinics Are An Emerging Business — With Lots Of Questions But Little Regulation
The Associated Press reports on what it terms the “wild west” in the business of medicine. The AP also examines the roll of stem cells in sports medicine.
Ohio Gov.’s Presidential Bid Faces GOP Scrutiny After Medicaid Expansion Support
Republican presidential hopeful John Kasich may have a tough road ahead to the Republican nomination because of his stances that are at odds with some conservatives. Elsewhere, Sen. Ted Cruz, another GOP presidential hopeful, never got health coverage under the health law.
Previously Unreported Problems At VA Hospitals Detailed
More than 120 investigations into mismanagement and malpractice at the nation’s hospitals that care for veterans were made public by the VA’s assistant inspector general. And, the system confronts challenges regarding increasing its health professional workforce.
PolitiFact Finds Fault With Gov. Scott’s Argument About Florida Hospital Funding
The governor says the federal government shouldn’t consider Medicaid expansion an alternative to special funding for hospitals because different groups benefit from the programs. But PolitiFact suggests that isn’t the case. In other Medicaid news, the North Carolina Hospital Association is encouraging state officials to adopt a Medicaid reform plan.
States With No Exchange Or Medicaid Expansion Have Most To Lose In King V. Burwell: Study
A report finds that the 20 states that did not set up their own exchange or expand their Medicaid programs would lose $721 billion in federal funds over the next decade if the Supreme Court rules health law subsidies in those places illegal.
Health Law Tax On Insurers Being Passed On To State Taxpayers
The Associated Press reports on how insurers are not only passing that levy onto customers but also onto states through costs associated with the Medicaid managed care plans. In addition, Reuters details a recent decision by a U.S. district court judge on retiree health plans that is being viewed as a victory for employers.
