Latest KFF Health News Stories
Prasad Resigns From Top FDA Post Amid Fallout Over Sarepta Dispute
As director of the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Dr. Vinay Prasad oversaw the regulation of vaccines and gene therapy drugs such as Sarepta Therapeutics’ treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. During his brief tenure, Prasad limited the use of covid shots and amped up warnings about a rare cardiac side effect of the shots, The New York Times wrote.
Monarez Confirmed As CDC Director
The Senate vote to approve Susan Monarez, who has served as the acting head of the CDC since January, was along party lines. Meanwhile, Stat reports that HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. could “imminently” overhaul the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.
First Edition: Wednesday, July 30, 2025
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
HHS Chief Intends To Restructure Vaccine Injury Compensation Program
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. wrote on X that the program is not “quickly and fairly compensating vaccine-injured individuals.” He said he is working with Attorney General Pam Bondi to make changes.
Older Adults On Multiple Common Medications Showed Better Cognition
A study that showed older adults on multiple medications for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes showed cognition equivalent to someone three years younger.
Police Find Note From NYC Gunman About CTE: ‘Study My Brain Please’
The 27-year-old man fatally shot himself in the chest after opening fire in a Midtown Manhattan office tower Monday, killing four people. The National Football League has offices in the tower.
FDA Set To Unveil Next Steps Against Dangerous Synthetic Kratom
HHS stated that the target is a synthetic substance called 7-OH, which is different from the all-natural kratom powder. These synthetic products create an opioid-like effect in the user and can be easily purchased in gas stations, convenience stores, and online.
NIH To Cut The Number Of Research Grants It Awards Due To Trump Policy
Stat reports that the cutback plan applies to the remaining two months of the fiscal year, but unless Congress acts, it will continue into the new fiscal year beginning in October. News also covers the impact of federal budget cuts on mental health resources.
Viewpoints: MAHA Is Destroying Doctors’ Trust In Government; Pill Penalty Provision Needs Fixing Now
Editorial writers tackle these public health topics.
Medicaid Funding Restored To Planned Parenthood Clinics Nationwide
A federal judge ruled that the GOP budget reconciliation law that made Planned Parenthood ineligible for Medicaid reimbursements is discriminatory. Plus, the story of the world’s most premature baby.
Premiums For Medicare Part D Will Increase ‘A Lot’ After Trump Cuts
The administration, which is set to cut the subsidy for the drug benefit program by 40%, says it will negotiate with insurers to ease the financial strain to the millions of seniors on the plan. Plus, U.S. drugmakers are looking at billions of dollars in expenses with President Donald Trump’s tariff deal with the EU.
First Edition: Tuesday, July 29, 2025
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
Scientists Find Alternative To Amniocentesis For Stem Cell Collection
Researchers have discovered a new way to successfully collect amniotic fluid and stem cells directly during vaginal deliveries. Plus, Rush University System for Health is offering an innovative blood test to patients in hopes of detecting cancer early.
Study Links Leaded Gas Pollution To Cognitive Decline 50 Years Later
Exposure to places with high atmospheric lead levels is tied to an approximately 20% increase in memory problems. More news is on liver disease, Alzheimer’s, a salmonella outbreak, and more.
Mission Hospital Looks To NC Supreme Court In 3-Year Expansion Fight
In 2022, Florida-based nonprofit AdventHealth won out over HCA Healthcare-owned Mission Hospital in a battle for 67 acute-care hospital beds to serve western North Carolina, but the fight continues. Other health industry news is on unregulated care homes, ED wait times, and more.
Opinion writers discuss these public health issues.
Tennessee School District Won’t Accept Doctor’s Notes For Absences
Lawrence County Director of Schools Michael Adkins stated that the change in policy is due to chronic absenteeism, and that a doctor’s note will no longer suffice. Other states making news: Oklahoma, Kansas, Illinois, Wisconsin, Connecticut, Oregon, Maryland, and California.
Pediatrics Academy Stands Firm In Opposing Nonmedical Vax Exemptions
The American Academy of Pediatrics maintains that schools and day cares must require proof of vaccinations for children to attend. Just five states have laws that accept only medical exemptions. Meanwhile, HHS Secretary RFK Jr. repeats false vaccine claims at a meeting with governors.
Medicaid Cuts And Work Rules Will Be Catastrophic, Hospital Group CEO Says
Dr. Bruce Siegel, CEO and president of America’s Essential Hospitals, says the cuts will upend safety-net hospitals. Also: Medicaid cuts will hurt family caregivers; Medicare savings programs are now under threat; and more.
RFK Jr.’s Plan To Remove Preventive Health Panelists Rebuked By AMA
The Health and Human Services chief reportedly considers all seasoned volunteers on the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force too “woke.” The panel issues recommendations for preventive services that insurers must cover at no cost to patients. The American Medical Association contends the nonpartisan panel’s work must continue uninterrupted.
