Latest KFF Health News Stories
Military officials may give these spouses health care, housing and other benefits by the end of the month, the Associated Press reports.
Today’s roundup features stories from The New York Times, USA Today, the Los Angeles Times and the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
Georgia Joins 7 States That Limit Abortion Coverage For State Employees
Meanwhile, The Texas Tribune explores the impact of the Texas Legislature’s 2011 decision to drastically cut family planning financing, and The Associated Press reports on a lawsuit by abortion rights groups to stop enforcement of an Oklahoma law that blocks access to the morning-after emergency contraception pill.
Brand-Name And Generic Drug Makers Take Fight To States
The battle concerns state laws that would require pharmacists to notify doctors and patients when they substitute generic versions of drugs derived from living organisms known as biologics.
Sebelius Open To ‘Uniquely Texan’ Approach To Covering Uninsured
In Texas, she says the Obama administration was flexible about how coverage might be expanded in that state, “but as far as I know, those conversations, at least with the state officials, are not taking place right now.”
Oregon Exchange Website Won’t Be Ready Oct. 1
Although Oregon’s marketplace will launch on time, people will have to go through certified agents rather than being able to register themselves online. News outlets also report on coverage concerns from autism advocates and marketplace developments in Idaho, Florida, Washington, California and Texas.
Research Roundup: Use Of High-Deductible Plans Limits E.R. Visits; Older Folks Not As Sick
This week’s selection of studies and briefs comes from Health Affairs, National Bureau of Economic Research, Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, Health Care Incentives Improvement Institute, The Heritage Foundation and Public Citizen.
Advocates Push For Renewal Of Federal Infant Screening Program
The bill would renew funding to state-run newborn screening programs, CQ HealthBeat reports.
‘Looming Questions’ Remain About Technology For Marketplaces
But HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and CMS Administrator Marilyn Tavenner say the exchanges will be ready to operate on Oct. 1.
Insurance Agents Target Navigators; GOP Rep. McHenry Grilled At Town Hall
A selection of news about the health law from a variety of news outlets.
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations, including Kathleen Sebelius’ outreach to Texans and a look at Americans’ comprehension of health insurance.
Govt. Will Continue To Pay For Capitol Hill Staffer Health Coverage, But Mostly In Exchanges
New details from the Obama administration clear a way for the government to continue to pay for the bulk of the costs associated with providing health coverage to Capitol Hill staffers, though most must buy coverage on Obamacare exchanges.
Sizing Up Health Law Politics And Policies
News outlets detail the political landscape surrounding the overhaul’s implementation and provide user’s guides to help consumers navigate changes. Coverage also highlights health law provisions that could impact coverage for small businesses and union members, and how the law is helping drive marketplace developments.
Democratic Opposition To Cost-Cutting Board Gains Momentum
Also in the news, The Wall Street Journal profiles the White House staffer who is negotiating with congressional Republicans on the budget.
Start-Up Company Specializes In Reducing Hospital Readmission Rates
In addition, a new study finds that there’s hope for black people who are hospitalized with heart failure.
12 Insurers Sign Contracts For California Exchange – But One Plan Opts Out
Reports also detail how health exchanges are taking shape in Maryland, Wisconsin, Oregon, Iowa, D.C. and Connecticut.
In California, Latinos Are Focus Of Effort To Raise Awareness About The Health Law
Even as health officials work to meet this educational challenge, other forces who oppose the overhaul are involved in aggressive campaigns to urge people, especially young people, not to sign up for health insurance. In addition, Grover Norquist, as part of the Obamacare Repeal Coalition, is pressing for a one-year delay in all 2014 Affordable Care Act provisions.
A selection of editorials and opinions on health care from around the country.
State Highlights: Battle Over Brooklyn Hospital’s Fate Widens In Court
A selection of health policy stories from New York, Georgia, Iowa, Texas, Minnesota and California.
WellCare’s Profits Up; Consumer Complaints Resolved With Social Media
WellCare’s earnings increase topped Wall Street’s expectations. Many health insurers are using Twitter to hear about customer problems.