Michael Tomsic, WFAE

As Obamacare Repeal Heats Up, Newly Insured North Carolinians Fret

KFF Health News Original

More than half a million people in North Carolina buy health insurance on healthcare.gov. Many are confused what will happen to their coverage as Republicans work to repeal the Affordable Care Act, but they still are signing up for 2017 plans.

Long-Term, Reversible Contraception Gains Traction With Young Women

KFF Health News Original

Implants and intrauterine devices are endorsed by pediatricians, OB-GYNs and health officials as a way to help girls and women space their pregnancies and reduce the risk of having a premature baby.

A Young Woman Dies, A Teen Is Saved After Amoebas Infect The Brain

KFF Health News Original

In Florida, perfect timing and alert medical staff saved a teen from almost certain death. But in North Carolina, one young woman died of an amoeba infection after rafting at a popular tourist site.

Students Fill A Gap In Mental Health Care For Immigrants

KFF Health News Original

Latinos who’ve recently arrived in the U.S. often have poor access to health care, mental health treatment in particular. UNC Charlotte is among several universities trying to change that.

Some Firms Save Money By Offering Employees Free Surgery

KFF Health News Original

The idea is this: Negotiate a flat price with a few hospitals to cover surgery, physical therapy and certain other post-op treatments. Companies save money and hospitals gain patients.

Sweet Name Of Kids’ Clinic Gives Some People Heartburn

KFF Health News Original

The Krispy Kreme Challenge Children’s Specialty Clinic gets its name from a student-run charity race in Raleigh, N.C., that has already raised $1 million for kids. Still, some find the name unhealthy.

The North Carolina Experiment: How One State Is Trying To Reshape Medicaid

KFF Health News Original

With legislation that passed last month, North Carolina is trying to build a hybrid managed care, accountable care model – with doctors, hospitals and insurance companies all sharing some risk. Advocates worry it could eclipse gains made by Medicaid in the state in the past.

Looming Decision Could Cripple Part Of N.C. Health Insurance Market

KFF Health News Original

If the Supreme Court invalidates some Obamacare tax subsidies, individual health insurance marketplaces in places like North Carolina could be hurt by the remaining deluge of sick people who keep coverage — and the higher insurance premiums their presence demands.

More Patients, Not Fewer, Turn To Health Clinics After Obamacare

KFF Health News Original

Patients are flocking to community health clinics for care in North Carolina and elsewhere. Clinic leaders think health law advertising has driven up demand, especially for people in the Medicaid gap.

Staffing An Intensive Care Unit From Miles Away Has Advantages

KFF Health News Original

Some hospitals are using a remote command center to keep an eye on ICU patients. This brings the expertise of a major medical center to rural hospitals — and may help keep the rural centers open.

In The Medicare Bonus Round, The Winners Are…Small, Specialty Hospitals!

KFF Health News Original

Some hospital revenue is now going to be tied to how happy you – the patient – are when you stay there. But not all hospitals are going to be capable of winning the Medicare sweepstakes.