Chad Terhune

Chad Terhune was a senior correspondent for KFF Health News until November 2018.

@chadterhune

California’s New Single-Payer Proposal Embraces Some Costly Old Ways

KFF Health News Original

The legislation would revive the age-old practice of paying providers for every service they perform — a recipe for a busted budget, some experts say. Backers say the bill is a work in progress.

Tab For Single-Payer Proposal In California Could Run $400 Billion

KFF Health News Original

A state Senate panel considering the measure said money for existing public programs could cover half the cost. But the rest might have to come from new taxes — a serious political obstacle.

Why Blue States Might Ditch Beloved Obamacare Protections

KFF Health News Original

With limited federal subsidies under the GOP health care bill, experts say states like California and New York would be under pressure to cut costs. That could mean shrinking benefits and dropping the prohibition against charging sicker patients higher premiums.

GOP Health Plan Could Be Bitter Pill For California’s Obamacare Exchange

KFF Health News Original

Critics say the proposed changes could poison one of the nation’s healthiest marketplaces, driving up premiums and drawing in only the sickest patients. Republicans and industry analysts call those concerns overblown.

One GOP Plan Says Calif. And Other States That Like Their Obamacare Can Keep It

KFF Health News Original

States could continue to cover people under the ACA or create new approaches, according to a bill introduced Monday. Many Democrats fear such state options won’t draw enough federal funding and will fragment coverage nationwide.

Leading Republicans See A Costly Malpractice Crisis — Experts Don’t

KFF Health News Original

The incoming HHS secretary wants to boldly reform the malpractice system, saying hundreds of billions are wasted on “lawsuit abuse” and defensive medicine. Industry experts say premiums and claims are down and “it’s a wonderful time for doctors.”

Grilled About Deadly Superbug Outbreaks, Execs At Scope Maker Olympus Take Fifth

KFF Health News Original

Lawyers who deposed top company officials in a civil case say they declined to answer questions about their failure to warn American hospitals of infection risks. Industry giant Olympus also is the subject of a criminal probe.