Latest KFF Health News Stories
House Dems Unveil $2.2 Trillion Relief Plan, Including Stimulus Checks
The White House and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) reopened discussions, yet the House Democrats’ plan would likely face stiff opposition in the Senate. The relief plan also includes help for the devastated airline industry.
More Insurers Making Patients Pay For Virtual Care
In other health care industry news, a home-health nurse was fired for arguing with a family that called COVID a hoax.
Health Care In Tonight’s Presidential Debate?
The coronavirus pandemic is certainly going to be a topic during the debate, but other health care issues are also expected to come up. In more election news related to health: President Trump plans a rally in Wisconsin.
Trump Getting ‘False’ Information From Atlas, Redfield Overheard Saying
Referring to Dr. Scott Atlas — the member of the coronavirus task force who is currently believed to have President Donald Trump’s ear — CDC Director Robert Redfield said during a phone call made on a commercial flight heard by NBC News that, “everything he says is false.” Dr. Anthony Fauci also voiced concerns about the advice Atlas is delivering to the president.
States To Get 100M Rapid COVID Tests, Trump Announces
While governors will decide what to do with the additional tests, the White House is urging that they be used to help reopen schools. Meanwhile, documents reveal efforts from CDC senior officials to downplay the risks of kids returning to in-person classes, The New York Times reports.
Computer Systems Fail At Major Hospital System After Ransomware Attack
Computers at Universal Health Services facilities — which has more than 400 locations, primarily in the U.S. — began to shut down over the weekend in what is described as one of the largest medical cyberattacks ever.
‘A Mind-Numbing Figure’: COVID-19 Has Killed 1,000,000 People So Far
The United States is the source of 20 percent of those worldwide deaths. U.N. Secretary General António Guterres called the world’s grim milestone “agonizing.” Global public health experts warn that the number will only climb as infections surge again in many nations.
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
Opinion writers weigh in on these health issues and others.
China Warns About Frozen Foods From Severely Stricken Countries
Global developments are reported from China, Mexico, Italy, Israel, India, Greenland, Canada, England, Scotland, Belgium, Noway, Germany and Switzerland.
DeSantis Cancels All Restrictions In Florida
“We’re not closing anything going forward,” Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) said Friday. Also, schools were ordered to open weeks earlier than planned.
Felons No Longer Banned From Food Stamps In Michigan
Advocates hailed the decision impacting people with histories of drug crimes. News is from Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maine and other states, as well.
Hunger Pangs Grow Across US As Pandemic Worsens Food Insecurity
Food banks continue to see a rise in demand, even in affluent areas. Meanwhile, grocery stores are beginning to stockpile necessities in preparation for a possible winter rush.
Grief, Sadness And Stress: The Unseen Toll Of COVID-19
Americans of all ages and races are buckling under the immense anxiety of the pandemic.
Multi-State Salmonella Outbreak Tied To Dried Mushrooms
COVID news is on the pandemic’s impact on households, working mothers, home care workers and the most vulnerable. Other news reports are on HIV, masking, wildfire dangers and more, as well.
Whitmer Orders K-5 Students To Wear Masks In Michigan
Schools news is on a lack of data being shared by Georgia health officials; one older teacher’s resolve to open her classroom; higher education’s punishment of partying students, and more.
Premera Blue Cross To Pay Nearly $7M For Data Breach
It is the highest fine behind a $16 million penalty paid by Anthem in 2018. News is on layoffs at Children’s Minnesota, a mental health unit closure at Mercy Iowa City and more.
Japan Approves Gilead’s Filgotinib After FDA Rejected It
The rheumatoid arthritis drug, which has been touted as a potential blockbuster, will be sold under the name Jyseleca. The FDA had raised concerns about sperm toxicity, especially for the higher, 200-mg dose. The Japan go-ahead covers the 200 mg and 100 mg tablets.
How 1 Million COVID Victims Have Helped Scientists, Researchers
People who have died from the coronavirus, especially ones who took part in studies, have helped reveal which drugs do or don’t help. Other news is on pregnancy, aerosols and more.
Military Deeply Embedded In ‘Operation Warp Speed’ Leadership
Military personnel vastly outnumber civilian scientists among the 90 people leading the federal vaccine development initiative, an organizational chart obtained by Stat News shows.