Latest KFF Health News Stories
Examining Wide Price Differences In The Insurance Marketplace
An NPR segment looks at how the cost of insurance varies across the country. Also, it offers a report on Colorado’s efforts to set up a system for consumers to find out what medical procedures cost.
State Highlights: Kan. Eyes Health Law Opt-Out; Calif. Voters Could Set Malpractice Cap
A selection of health policy stories from Kansas, California, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Iowa, Florida, Maryland and Georgia.
Beta Version Of Cover Oregon Gets Mixed Reviews
The troubled Cover Oregon insurance exchange unveiled its long-awaited beta website to mixed reviews Tuesday. Meanwhile, Humana announced it will waive fees for enrollees who bought plans on the Mississippi exchange who see a doctor by the end of June for a non-preventive visit. Also, Republicans probe state websites which are still having major problems.
1 in 4 Check Online Doctor Ratings
And 59 percent of people think those ratings are at least “somewhat important.”
No ‘Job Loss’ Results From The Health Law, Sebelius Says
Countering GOP claims that stemmed from a recent Congressional Budget Office report, Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius argued that no evidence supports the idea that the overhaul will drive down employment.
Viewpoints: ‘Sham Surgery’ For Research; Bigger Hospitals May Not Bring Better Care
A selection of editorials and opinions on health care from around the country.
First Edition: February 19, 2014
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations, including reports about the doubts that now surround Arkansas’ Medicaid expansion plan — a compromise plan that has gained national attention.
Automated Obamacare Payment System Months From Completion
Meanwhile, California, Texas and Arizona exchanges do poorly at enrolling Latinos, while in Oregon, insurance agents and other consumer guides hope to get their first look today at an overhauled website. In Texas, a campaign targets neighborhoods with high rates of uninsured residents.
Va. Finance Panel Advances Alternate Approach To Expanding Medicaid
The state’s Senate Finance Committee proposed using funding set aside to pursue an expansion of the traditional Medicaid program to help as many as 400,000 state residents buy private insurance. Meanwhile, in Arkansas, the private alternative faces a critical vote. News outlets also provide other updates related to the Medicaid expansion from California, Florida, Texas and Georgia.
Some Older Americans Get Relief From Health Law
The Associated Press reports that people in their 50s and 60s who lost jobs during the recession are signing up for new coverage in large numbers.
Long-Term Care Insurance Costs Up After Insurer Miscalculations
Prices to buy long-term care insurance have risen during the last few years after insurance company mistakes came to light.
Report: Best Practices Saving Lives, Hospitals Money
In the meantime, patients sharing their appointments with other patients — group doctor visits — gains popularity.
Investor Group To Buy Claims Manager For $4.4B
MultiPlan processes 40 million health insurance claims annually.
Ahead Of Nov. Elections, Hill GOP Shelves ‘Big-Ticket’ Legislation
Party leaders are focusing on calming their divided ranks, The Washington Post reports.
Moving Deadlines Is ‘Wrong Way’ To Fix Health Law; Expand Medicaid To Close ‘Racial’ Health Gap
Commentators assess the health law and its implementation.
Have Questions About New Health Coverage? Here Are Some Answers
News outlets offer tips and answers for consumers who are trying to understand the health insurance they now have as a result of the health law.
State Highlights: Ohio Gov.’s Evolving Stances; Conn. Social Services Woes
A selection of health policy stories from Ohio, Connecticut, South Carolina, Mississippi, Florida, California, New York, Oklahoma, Washington, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Georgia.
Viewpoints: Refusing A Mammogram; Video Monitoring In Hospitals; Peril Of Low-T Marketing
A selection of editorials and opinions on health care from around the country.
Democratic Party Strategists Formulate Health Law Plan For Campaign Season
The party is seeking to neutralize GOP candidates’ ability to use the health overhaul to their advantage.
First Edition: February 18, 2014
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations, including reports designed to answer specific questions about insurance coverage and access to care.
