Latest KFF Health News Stories
Medicare Issue Reverberates During Convention
As both parties press their views about revamping the program, a National Journal survey of “insiders” finds both sides think they can win on the issue. Meanwhile, the New York Times reports that even as the Romney-Ryan ticket seems to be holding its own against Democratic attacks on the issue, some Republicans down the ballot are concerned.
Ryan Says GOP Will Protect Medicare
In a speech to the Republican convention, the vice presidential candidate parried Democratic attacks on his Medicare proposals, saying, “The usual posturing on the Left isn’t going to work. Mitt Romney and I know the difference between protecting a program and raiding it.”
First Edition: August 30, 2012
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations, including reports on Rep. Paul Ryan’s speech to the GOP convention.
Judge Rewords Mo. Health Insurance Exchange Ballot Measure
A judge has reworded a ballot measure that would require that state’s governor to seek legislative or voter approval before establishing a health insurance exchange.
Georgia Governor Rejects Medicaid Expansion
Gov. Nathan Deal told reporters at the GOP Convention that he has no intention of expanding the program because the federal government’s commitment to pay the full cost for three years, and 90 percent thereafter “is probably unrealistic.” An estimated 650,000 Georgians would gain health coverage under an expansion.
A selection of health policy stories from California, Georgia, Michigan, Kansas, North Carolina and Oregon.
Foundation Promises $500M For Patient Safety Effort; Starts With $9M Hopkins Grant
A foundation has promised to spend $500 million over the next decade on hospital safety to try to prevent patient harm. The first $9 million will fund a project at Johns Hopkins to develop tools to eliminate common threats in hospitals.
Viewpoints: Clarity Needed On GOP Health Plan; Blaming The Poor
A selection of editorials and opinions on health care from around the nation.
Poll: Abortion Not Decisive Issue For More Than Half Of Voters
While the 2012 presidential race has energized pro- and anti-abortion rights groups, a new CBS News poll shows that as many as 57 percent of registered voters in both parties say it’s possible they would vote for a candidate who disagreed with them on the issue. However, women are less likely than men to say that.
Residency Cap May Hamper Efforts To Expand Number Of Doctors
Bloomberg examines the need for more primary care physicians and the limit on the number of slots for training doctors.
Medicaid Cuts Hit Dental Services; Minn. Seeks Waiver To Save $151 Million
The New York Times looks at the problems that come when the health care program for low-income people doesn’t meet their dental needs. At the same time, Minnesota news outlets report on an effort by their governor to get federal authorities to approve changes in the Medicaid program there.
Ryan To Make Case He Is Ready To Be Vice President
The 42-year-old Wisconsin representative’s speech to the GOP convention may highlight aspects of his budget plans, which would revamp both Medicare and Medicaid.
Christie Says Romney Would Fix Nation’s Budget
Republican keynote address lays “the foundation for calls” by Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan to change Medicare, Wall Street Journal reports.
GOP Platform Calls For Turning Medicare Into Voucher-Like Program, Repealing Obamacare
The Republican Party’s platform calls for a ban on all abortions, reshaping Medicare and deep cuts to Medicaid if Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan are elected in November.
Hospital News: Low Readmissions Rates At 2 NYC Hospitals; Parkland Still Facing Crisis
Several stories from around the country look at issues facing local health care facilities.
WellPoint Chief Executive Quits
Angela Braly was criticized for slumping stock prices and disappointing second-quarter earnings.
First Edition: August 29, 2012
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations, including news from the Republican convention in Tampa and previews of Rep. Paul Ryan’s speech coming tonight.
Obama Clings To Narrow Lead In New Polls
But recent surveys also show that despite speculation that Medicare policies may cause seniors to rebuff the Republican party, GOP presumptive nominee Mitt Romney continues to find strong support among this population.
As GOP Convention Picks Up, Health Issues Draw Attention
News outlets report on how the most conservative Republicans are uniting around Mitt Romney, even as he appears more open to embracing the Massachusetts health law he signed while that state’s governor.
Boehner Predicts GOP Victory, But Not A Mandate To Overhaul Medicare
House Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, is optimistic that Republicans will maintain control of the House.
