Latest KFF Health News Stories
As Harris Moves Into Spotlight, Focus Tightens On Dems’ Health Agenda
News outlets examine the role Kamala Harris could play in continuing the long-term health goals of the Democratic party, stepping into the battle for abortion rights, and the way these matters could energize voters. Meanwhile, Donald Trump’s age and health are revived.
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
Editorial writers discuss bird flu, nonprofit hospitals, presidential health, and more.
Listeria Outbreak Linked To Deli Meat Has Now Killed 2, Hospitalized 28
The outbreak has affected people in 11 states. Separately, research into pig transplantation has led to a surprising boon for people with red meat allergy from tick bites: Pork from genetically modified pigs doesn’t trigger their allergic reaction.
As Young Adult Liver-Related Deaths Rise, Trans Adults Face Higher Risk
Research published in The American Journal of Gastroenterology last month found trans adults face double the risk of severe liver disease, and a higher share of cirrhosis from heavy drinking—despite the fact that they comprise less than 1% of the nation’s population. Also in the news: alcohol monitoring in North Carolina, mobile methadone clinics, and more.
New Hampshire Governor Signs Bill Banning Gender Surgery For Minors
Gov. Chris Sununu, a Republican, also signed a bill banning trans athletes from competing on school sports teams with students that align with their gender identity. New Hampshire is also in the news for relaxing some language rules to boost licensed nursing assistant numbers.
Colorado’s Human Bird Flu Infections May Be Linked To Extreme Heat
The Colorado Sun and Stat report that extreme heat and a dairy cow outbreak may have contributed to bird flu infecting people, including poultry workers. Meanwhile, USA Today covers a report saying the worldwide risk of animal-to-human disease spreading remains high.
Audit Finds One Of The Largest PBMs Overcharged Postal Workers Millions
Express Scripts charged USPS employees an extra $45 million for prescription drugs over a five-year window, a federal audit found. Meanwhile, pharmacy trade groups are lobbying for legislation to regulate PBMs, pointing to the closure of community pharmacies across the U.S.
Experts Note CrowdStrike Bug Is Proof Of Health System’s Tech Weaknesses
A cybersecurity company’s error took down business computers across the planet, including health service systems — forcing hospitals to resort to paper and pens — but experts are also noting that it should be a big warning of health systems’ tech vulnerabilities.
Even After Trump Was Shot, Republicans Downplay Gun Violence
Assassination attempts have led to some of the biggest overhauls to gun laws in the country’s history, but this time it seems unlikely, the Wall Street Journal says. Also: California researchers say repeated exposure to graphic photos and videos is linked to psychological distress.
Biden’s Health Care Achievements Frame His Legacy
President Joe Biden will be hailed for his efforts to lower prescription drug costs, expand health care coverage, protect abortion access, and guide the country through a pandemic, even though a second Trump administration could reverse many health care policies.
Montana, Missouri, And South Dakota Abortion Rights Ballot Pushes Advance
The initiatives in Montana and Missouri have gathered more than enough voter signatures to qualify for the November ballot, officials report. In South Dakota, a judge has tossed a lawsuit that sought to take the measure off the ballot. The anti-abortion group has appealed to the Supreme Court.
Harris’ Health Priorities Could Take More Progressive Stance Than Biden
News outlets look at the policies a Kamala Harris platform would champion should the vice president lead the top of the Democratic ticket. Progressives support her more liberal views.
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
Biden Ends Presidential Run, Endorses Harris
News outlets cover President Joe Biden’s historic decision to end his campaign for re-election, which he announced Sunday. Biden also voiced his support for Vice President Kamala Harris to become the party’s nominee.
Viewpoints: Supreme Court Dismissing EMTALA Case Is Dangerous; PBMs Aren’t Lowering Drug Prices
Editorial writers discuss reproductive health care, prescription drug costs, and addiction treatment.
Little Health Chatter At Republican Convention
News outlets fact check the few health-related statements made during Day 4 of the Republican National Convention, including in presidential nominee Donald Trump’s speech. On the other side of the ticket, eyes are fixed on Delaware where President Joe Biden contemplates his future.
Health Care Among Industries Struck By Global Technology Outage
A widespread computer error, which began in the middle of the night, is forcing PCs to repeatedly crash with the fabled Microsoft “blue screen of death” issue. Measles, bird flu, and the summer covid surge also are in the news.
San Francisco Cancer Research Nonprofit Gains $125 Million Donation
The Parker Institute of Cancer Immunotherapy will distribute the funds from tech executive Sean Parker and other philanthropists over the next five years to boost cancer research. Abbott Laboratories, Boehringer-GoodRx, Sidecar Health, and more are also in the news.
HIV Success: Stem Cell Transplant Cured Infection In German Patient
While celebrating the breakthrough, experts caution that this type of treatment might not help everyone and that more study is needed. Meanwhile, a pregnant woman’s diet could be linked to her child’s autism risk, research suggests.
