Latest KFF Health News Stories
FDA’s Top Drug Regulator To Examine Safety Of SSRIs And RSV Monoclonals
Tracy Beth Høeg, the fifth director of the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research since last year, says she is prioritizing the health of women and babies. Meanwhile, ACIP is postponing its meeting set for next week. Plus, measles cases continue to spread.
Veteran Furor Prompts VA To Halt Rule Tying Disability Ratings To Treatment
The new Department of Veterans Affairs rule would have factored in whether medication effectively treats an ailment in determining compensation for veterans with a disability. “Disabled veterans should never be forced to choose between following their doctor’s orders and protecting their earned benefits,” VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore said.
First Edition: Friday, Feb. 20, 2026
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
Viewpoints: ICE Is Causing A Health Crisis; FDA’s Reversal On Moderna Vaccine Can’t Undo The Damage
Editorial writers examine these public health issues.
Research Roundup: The Latest Science, Discoveries, And Breakthroughs
Each week, KFF Health News compiles a selection of health policy studies and briefs.
Blood Tests May Give Patients A ‘Clock’ For Alzheimer’s Disease, Study Finds
Although the findings are not yet accurate enough to predict a patient’s exact trajectory, The Washington Post reports that scientists created a model that could use blood test results to forecast the start of symptoms within a margin of three to four years. Other public health news is on social media, foodborne bacteria, and more.
NYU Langone Ends Transgender Youth Health Program, To Dismay Of Many
Months after the Trump administration proposed a withdrawal of federal funds from hospitals providing gender transition treatments to young people, NYU Langone has announced the end of its health program. Advocates are calling for the reinstatement of the program, while hoping the city and state will help fill gaps in care.
New National Specialty Care Coalition Will Focus On Rural Patient Access
More than 20 health systems have joined forces to improve health care access in rural and underserved communities, Modern Healthcare reported.
More Pregnant People Are Putting Off Prenatal Care, CDC Data Indicate
Although nearly all racial and ethnic groups experienced a downward trend, minority groups had more of a decrease in early prenatal care. The report didn’t touch on reasons for the shift in care, but doctors noted access has become challenging as maternity care deserts pop up across the nation.
Trump’s FDA To Require Only One Study For Drug Approvals, Not Two
In changing the longtime standard, administration officials aim to speed up the approval process. Also in the news: domestic production of glyphosate, fluoride in drinking water, and more.
NIH Director Bhattacharya Takes On Double Duty Leading CDC — For Now
Jay Bhattacharya’s acting role gives the Trump administration time to find a permanent replacement for ousted director Jim O’Neill. Plus, Moderna’s mRNA flu vaccine application will be reviewed by the FDA after all.
First Edition: Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
Opinion writers examine these public health issues.
Danaher To Acquire Medical Tech Firm Masimo For Nearly $10 Billion
Meanwhile, Prime Healthcare Foundation has acquired Central Maine Healthcare, and Tampa-based Moffitt Cancer Center plans an eastward expansion into Lakeland, Florida.
Military Rations Rife With Pesticides, Study Finds; US Floats ‘Real Food Pilot’
The Department of Health and Human Services has launched a program to improve meal quality at 20 military bases. Plus: Courts are receiving conflicting answers about the Trump administration’s policy on pregnant detainees; the FDA no longer warns against junk autism treatments; and more.
Illinois Wipes Out More Than $1.1B In Medical Debt From 500,000 Residents
Illinois has spent about $10 million on the program so far, with each dollar spent equating to more than $100 of medical debt erased. Other news from around the nation comes out of Massachusetts, Wyoming, Florida, Connecticut, Hawaii, Michigan, and Maryland.
Study Links Air Pollution To Increased Risk Of Alzheimer’s, Dementia
Researchers examined data from more than 27.8 million Americans. There is no known cure for Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, which affects about 57 million people worldwide. Plus: Alzheimer’s affects women at an increased rate to men.
Proposed $7B Settlement Could Resolve Thousands Of Roundup Cancer Claims
The settlement would still need the court’s approval. However, it would guarantee a payout for cancer patients and would protect Bayer from higher costs should the Supreme Court rule against it when the case goes in front of justices in April.
CMS Will Cover Vaccines On Updated Schedule: ‘Go Get Your Measles Shot’
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Mehmet Oz is urging uptake of the MMR shot as the country’s measles outbreak shows no signs of ending. He vowed that parents and patients will have access to inoculations and that the government will pick up the tab.
