Latest KFF Health News Stories
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations, including health policy headlines from Capitol Hill and from the insurance markeplace.
Democratic Sen. Harkin Puts Hold On Tavenner’s Nomination
Marilyn Tavenner, whose nomination to lead CMS was approved by the Finance Committee Tuesday, had been expected to get a vote from the full Senate soon. But Harkin stopped the process for now to show his unhappiness about the administration using money from a prevention and public health fund to help finance health law implementation. KHN tracked the coverage.
States Spend $28M, Then Leave Exchanges To The Feds
Many states accepted so-called “establishment grants” and then decided not to build their own insurance marketplaces.
The New York Times examines how the law’s backers are working to explain it to the public. Meanwhile, other outlets report on accountable care organizations and concerns — from business leaders and HIV advocates — about changes coming from the overhaul.
States Continue Tussling With Medicaid Expansion Plans
CQ HealthBeat reports that even in jurisdictions that opt not to pursue the Medicaid expansion, the number of people who are left without insurance coverage will not be as large as expected. Meanwhile, Arkansas Gov. Mike Beebe signed his state’s private insurance option plan into law while debate is ongoing in Pennsylvania, Texas, Florida and South Dakota.
Senate Finance Committee OKs CMS Nominee
The next step for former nurse and hospital executive Marilyn Tavenner, who already has been serving as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services acting administrator, is consideration by the full Senate.
U.S. Files Suit Against Novartis In Alleged Kickback Scheme
The suit accuses the drugmaker of giving pharmacies discounts and rebates to promote the use of the drug Myfortic.
GOP Bill To Extend Pre-Existing Condition Coverage Gets Veto Threat Over Prevention Fund Diversion
Republicans are offering a bill to keep coverage available for people with pre-existing conditions under the health law but want to use the law’s prevention money to do so, prompting a veto threat from the White House.
Sen. Baucus’ Retirement Leaves Door Open For Sen. Wyden On Health Issues
Sen. Max Baucus’ announcement Tuesday that he will not seek re-election in 2014 could open the door for Sen. Ron Wyden to become the most powerful Senate Democrat on health care issues. Some groups are claiming victory on the retirement announcement while others look at what Wyden could accomplish.
Insurers, Hospitals Promise To Lower Medical Cost Strain For Boston Marathon Bombing Victims
Health insurers and hospitals in Boston said this week that they will scale back the cost of medical care for those affected by the Boston Marathon bombing. In the meantime, donations for their medical costs from one campaign have topped $1.8 million.
Wash., Pa. Develop Strategies, Take Actions On Health Exchanges
Washington state lawmakers are eyeing a way to push certain state employees away from their current health insurance coverage and instead send them into the health insurance exchange to obtain a health plan. In Pennsylvania, the House approved legislation to limit coverage for most abortions by plans available on the exchange.
A selection of editorials and opinions on health care from around the country.
State Roundup: Calif. Health Care Cuts Attract Opponents
A selection of health policy stories from California, Virginia, Maryland, Georgia, Oregon, Connecticut and North Carolina.
AP Poll: Americans Underestimate Their Chances Of Needing Long-Term Care As They Age
The Associated Press found that two-thirds of those questioned — all of whom were 40 or older — had done little or no planning.
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations, including stories about the health law’s implementation as well as health policy developments from Capitol Hill.
Competition Key Ingredient To Success Of State Health Exchanges
Stateline reports that even some of the strongest health exchange enthusiasts are concerned that some states will still only have limited insurance choices for consumers. Meanwhile, in other news, the Arkansas Medicaid expansion model gains momentum, Florida’s efforts face continued complications, Arizona’s expansion standoff continues and the Missouri Senate rejects the concept.
Next Stage Of Health Law Triggers Concern, Confusion
News outlets report on the confusion that continues to surround the health law, especially as key provisions are about to take effect. Meanwhile, officials and activists strategize about how to educate consumers about their options.
Study Finds Health Care Spending Will Rebound When Economy Picks Up
The analysis by The Kaiser Family Foundation says the slowdown in health spending over the past several years was largely driven by the economic malaise.
The Challenges Of Advancing Mental Health Parity
CQ HealthBeat reports on the efforts to implement statutory language into benefits for patients.
Supreme Court Rejects Tobacco Industry Challenge Regarding Graphic Cigarette Labels
Also, a New York City proposal would increase the age for buying cigarettes from 18 to 21.
