Latest KFF Health News Stories
First Edition: Monday, Oct. 28, 2024
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
121 Whooping Cough Cases Seen In Maryland This Year, A Tenfold Increase
Officials say pertussis numbers have returned to pre-pandemic levels across Maryland and the U.S. this year, The Baltimore Sun reports. News from across the nation also comes from Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Minnesota, and California.
Wearables, Apps, And AI To Shape The Future Of Health Devices
The HLTH conference in Las Vegas this week provided hints at where the future of health technology is headed. Gadgets and tech demonstrated included an app that can provide vitals with just a face scan, earrings that can track health metrics, and a AI-powered stethoscope.
Diagnostic Errors Afflict 7% Of Patients In Hospital Setting, Study Finds
Researchers led by Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston also found that most of those mistakes can be prevented, noting: “It is paramount to note that it is not one individual or process that is at fault.” Other news is about lead paint exposure, app addiction, IV fluid supply, and more.
Insurers Collected Billions In Dubious Medicare Advantage Payments: Watchdog Report
A HHS watchdog reports that insurers like UnitedHealth, Humana were paid an estimated $7.5 billion last year from health risk assessments that diagnosed serious health conditions for which patients had no follow-up care. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services declined to crack down on the practice though.
Ohio’s 6-Week Abortion Ban Quashed
The judge from the Hamilton County Court of Common Pleas in Cincinnati admonished state Attorney General Dave Yost, a Republican, for circumventing the will of the people who voted to enshrine abortion protections in Ohio’s constitution.
Editorial writers delve into these public health topics.
Longer Looks: Interesting Reads You Might Have Missed
Each week, KFF Health News finds longer stories for you to enjoy. Today’s selections are on cancer, lead paint, “electrosensitive” people, and more.
While Bird Flu Cases Rise, CDC Says No Evidence Of Human-To-Human Spread
Confirmed cases of avian flu have risen to 31 in the U.S. with a new case reported in Missouri. The CDC says that its separate investigation of symptomatic health workers in the state has shown they were not infected with the virus and that there is no evidence yet of human-to-human transmission.
Higher Adverse Events Risk Linked To Broad-Spectrum Antibiotics Use: Study
A new study shows otherwise healthy adults who take broad-spectrum antibiotics to treat community-acquired pneumonia are more likely to suffer adverse drug events. Also in the news: evolution of covid, and the Alzheimer’s-Ozempic link.
First Edition: Friday, Oct. 25, 2024
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
Research Roundup: Maternal Covid; Lyme Borreliosis; Narcolepsy
Each week, KFF Health News compiles a selection of health policy studies and briefs.
Editorial writers discuss these public health topics.
Supreme Court Case On Transgender Care In Tenn. Could Have Ripple Effect
Two dozen states, including Tennessee, have banned hormone therapy for transgender minors. The Supreme Court will begin hearing a challenge Dec. 4, the outcome of which could have repercussions for other states. Meanwhile, Donald Trump and other Republican candidates are leaning into anti-trans messaging as the election nears.
National Licensing Board Scraps Skills Test For Prospective Psychologists
The organization now will explore whether it will move to a single-session certification exam that tests both knowledge and skills. News from around the nation comes from Pennsylvania, Maine, Louisiana, and elsewhere.
Insulin-Dependent Patients Scraping By As Demand For GLP-1 Drugs Soars
Diabetics who must have the medicine to survive fear drugmakers are neglecting their needs in favor of now-popular and profitable weight loss medications. Pharmaceutical companies maintain they are committed to supplying essential medications. Also in the news: duloxetine, retina implant, Eyebot, and more.
Change Healthcare Data Hack Deemed Largest Health Care Breach In History
According to the HHS’ Breach Portal, the cyberattack Change Healthcare experienced in February affected nearly 30% of the U.S. population. In the aftermath of the breach, Change Healthcare has lost customers, and it is unclear when all of its systems will be restored.
2 More Confirmed Bird Flu Cases In California: State Total Reaches 15
On Wednesday, the CDC confirmed two new human cases of avian flu in California, bringing this year’s total up to 27 nationwide. Meanwhile, Reuters reports on how an emergency order to protect against bird flu spread in dairy cows was quashed by state and industry officials earlier this year. And, more on the McDonald’s E. coli outbreak.
Folks 50 And Up Need Pneumonia Shot, 65 And Up Need 2nd Covid Jab: Panel
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices revised its recommendations in an effort to provide more protections for people most at risk of severe infection.
If Elected, These Two Doctors Would Be Only Pro-Choice OB-GYNs In Congress
As The 19th points out, 19 physicians serve in the U.S. Congress — 15 in the House of Representatives and four in the Senate. Currently, only two of them are OB-GYNs; both are male Republicans who oppose abortion. Plus: Stat looks at key races and ballot issues that could shape health care.
