Latest KFF Health News Stories
Regulators Urged To Move Swiftly To Prevent ‘Rate Shocks’
KHN’s Julie Appleby reports that consumer groups are seeking rules to protect Americans from big jumps in health insurance premiums.
Mitt Romney Taps Paul Ryan As His V.P. Pick
The selection of the fiscal conservative puts the size and scope of the federal government — and especially the future of Medicare and other entitlement programs — at the center of the election debate. Ryan’s views on social issues, such as abortion, are also explored by media outlets.
On ’60 Minutes,’ Romney And Ryan Defend Medicare Plan
The GOP presumptive presidential nominee and his choice for a running mate also went on the offensive by criticizing the Obama administration for cutting Medicare spending.
Ryan’s Medicare Plan Comes Under Greater Scrutiny
As Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wis., moves to the national stage as GOP presidential hopeful Mitt Romney’s running mate pick, his proposals to reshape Medicare, Medicaid and other safety net programs emerge as political lightning rods.
Romney-Ryan Team Hits The Campaign Trail
GOP presumptive presidential nominee Mitt Romney will make campaign appearances Monday in Florida, the senior-rich state where Medicare is a key voter concern, and where some predict Paul Ryan’s budget proposals could have a negative impact. Meanwhile, the newly anointed Romney vice presidential pick will be in Iowa.
First Hospital Penalties For High Readmissions Detailed
KHN examines new penalties hospitals face under the health law. Meanwhile, Medpage Today reports on the American College of Physicians’ new recommendations on government rules about doctors’ interactions with patients.
IRS Rule Could Keep Working-Class Families From Affordable Coverage
An IRS rule could mean some working-class families may not be able to afford employer-sponsored insurance nor qualify for federal subsidies under the health law, leaving a key part of America uninsured. Childless adults, however, are in line for significant health insurance coverage gains under the health law’s Medicaid expansion.
Boomers Face Dearth Of Home Caregivers; Medicare Expands Home-Care Pilot Project
As baby boomers age, the U.S. will face a challenge trying to fill more than 1 million new home care positions to meet their needs, The Associated Press reports. In the meantime, Medicare is adding more groups to a pilot program aimed at lowering costs for Medicare beneficiaries by providing them with home-based care.
Medicaid Expansion Would Have Major Effect On State Economy
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution examines issues surrounding the expansion of Medicaid coverage under the health law and notes that the extra federal money coming into the state would have a $72 billion economic impact over 10 years.
Choice Of Ryan Energizes Campaign–For Both GOP And Dems
Many outlets offer views of Rep. Paul Ryan after GOP presidential contender Mitt Romney named him as his vice presidential choice.
A selection of editorials and opinions on health care from around the country.
Some Mass. Health Premiums To Rise; Blue Shield Of Calif. CEO Pay Down Slightly
The increase in Massachusetts’ small business and individual health care insurance premiums is down from increases of 5.5 percent on average last year.
State Roundup: Fla. Groups Ask Gov. For Essential Benefits Hearings
A selection of health policy stories from Massachusetts, Florida, Ohio, Texas, Colorado and Washington state.
First Edition: August 13, 2012
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations, including reports, examinations and analyses of GOP presidential hopeful Mitt Romney’s running mate pick – Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wis.
Choice Of Rep. Ryan Puts His Plan To Overhaul Medicare At Center Of Campaign
Republicans believe Romney’s pick will help reset the debate and add enthusiasm for the ticket, but Democrats see an opening to move the debate beyond the president’s record.
Democrats React Swiftly To Romney’s V.P. Pick
Armed with talking points related to the House G.O.P. budget plan advanced by Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wis., which includes sweeping proposed changes to Medicare, Democrats go on the attack.
Ryan Is A Hero On The Right But He Could Also Presents A Risk For Romney
News outlets examine some of the history and criticism of the plan.
House GOP Seeks Details On Administration Health Spending
Members of the House Ways and Means and Energy and Commerce committees ask for information on health law implementation spending by a CMS office and on the Medicare Advantage bonus payments program.
Health Insurer Rebates: Where Has The Money Gone?
The New York Times reports that many consumers who get health coverage through their employers wonder what happened to the insurer rebates that were part of “the great health insurance giveback” under the health law. Also in the news, The Associated Press details who will be hit the hardest by the health law’s tax provisions.
Hospital Debt, Financial Practices Draw Investors’ Attention
Also in the news, The Wall Street Journal reports that consumers may be returning to the doctor after a period during which the difficult economy appeared to keep them away.
