Latest KFF Health News Stories
Research Roundup: The Latest Science, Discoveries, And Breakthroughs
Each week, KFF Health News compiles a selection of the latest health research and news.
Viewpoints: Here’s How To Improve Health Insurance; Will SCOTUS Uphold Anti-Trans Legislation?
Editorial writers discuss these public health topics.
First-Time ADHD Diagnoses On The Rise In People Over 30
Since 2021, the number of people getting diagnosed with ADHD for the first time has risen significantly. In other news: Americans live with diseases longer than people from other countries; some foods make fighting cancer harder; and more.
Dallas Approves Ordinance To Include Vaping In Citywide Smoking Ban
In other news, Texas health advocates move to improve the Medicaid application process; North Carolina hospitals fight claims that they are not providing price transparency; and more.
CVS, Cigna, UnitedHealth Forced To Sell Pharmacies If Drafted Bill Passes
The bill, drafted by a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers, would force prescription drug middlemen to sell off all pharmacies they own. Other news stories cover once-a-year HIV prevention shots, gene therapy to reverse heart failure, and more.
Inaccurate Provider Listings May Become Legal Headache For Insurers
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of New York is facing a class-action lawsuit that alleges that the insurer intentionally includes out-of-network providers in its lists. The insurance industry will be watching closely as others have been accused of promoting “ghost networks.”
House Passes Bill Banning Tricare From Providing Gender-Affirming Care
Meanwhile, Montana protects health care for transgender minors; Florida prison reverses care for transgender inmates; and more.
White House Defers Decision To Authorize Human Bird Flu Vaccine
Officials are monitoring the U.S. outbreak but say a vaccine isn’t yet warranted. The incoming Trump administration will decide how to proceed. In related news, The New York Times explores whether cats could help the H5N1 virus evolve into a more dangerous form.
The Biden Administration’s Final Days: FDA Proposes Nicotine Limits
As the Biden administration winds down, the FDA proposes nicotine limits on tobacco products to help people quit. Also: progress in women’s health research; a large drop in overdose deaths; and more.
Man Accused In UHC Slaying Saw It As ‘Symbolic Takedown,’ NYPD Says
Police now have possession of a notebook that reportedly describes the alleged suspect’s rationale. Plus, more of the latest details in the shooting death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.
First Edition: Thursday, Dec. 12, 2024
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
Ohio Supreme Court Rules In Favor Of Pharmacies In Opioid Disputes
Meanwhile, Michigan looks to ban flavored vapes; Colorado pushes to cut payments for autism therapy; New Hampshire still allowed to board mental health patients in ER; and more.
Federal Judge Foils Largest Merger In US Supermarket History
CNN reports that worries over consumers’ financial well-being loomed over the potential merger of Kroger and Albertsons. Also in the news: a potential Walgreens sale, how AI can cut hospital expenses, and more.
Spread of Breast Cancer Linked to Newly Identified Gene
Many cancer deaths are caused by the spread of the cancer to other areas and not by the original tumor. Researchers found that some patients have a greater genetic predisposition to the disease spreading. Meanwhile, new data on immunotherapy drugs targeting cancer proteins show promising results.
Opinion writers delve into these public health issues.
California Child’s Bird Flu Infection Resembles Strain Sickening Dairy Cows
The H5N1 case, confirmed by the CDC, is still perplexing as the child was not known to have been exposed to sick livestock or infected animals. Additional public health news is about listeria, norovirus, heart disease, dengue, and more.
Senate Scrutiny Escalates For Dr. Oz, RFK Jr. Health Agency Nominations
Senate Democrats want answers from Dr. Mehmet Oz — who has been tapped to lead the agency that manages Medicare and Medicaid — on his previous support for eliminating traditional Medicare in favor of privatization. Also, Republican swing votes remain uncommitted on the nomination of vaccine skeptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to run HHS.
After UnitedHealthcare CEO’s Slaying, Empathy For Suspect Sparks Debate
Since Luigi Mangione was arrested Monday, people have taken to social media and the streets to vent frustration about the health insurance industry — and in some corners to express support for him. Meanwhile, what to do if your insurance claims are denied.
Democrats Work To Safeguard Reproductive Health Info From Data Brokers
Measures at state and national levels would ban brokers from selling health and location data that could be used to track patients seeking abortion care, The 19th reports. Also, despite broad abortion restrictions, most U.S. women aren’t seeking family planning services, the CDC has found.
Eat More Plant-Based Foods, According To Dietary Guidelines Advisory Panel
A report, published Tuesday, suggests eating less red and processed meats, and consuming less added sugars, sodium and saturated fat, to promote health and prevent disease. Also in the news: inflammatory foods may be linked to rise in colon cancer; not all sugar consumption is equal; and more.
