Latest KFF Health News Stories
Medical News Offers Promise On Shingles Vaccine, Lung Cancer Biopsies, Cystic Fibrosis
Recent studies and news reports look at a confusing choice for seniors as they contemplate whether to wait for a shingles vaccine that is close to being marketed. Elsewhere, news on a promising new technology for lung cancer and a possible drug regimen that could hold hope for cystic fibrosis patients — as well as a new machine that pushes the boundaries for health care.
Stem Cell Clinics Are An Emerging Business — With Lots Of Questions But Little Regulation
The Associated Press reports on what it terms the “wild west” in the business of medicine. The AP also examines the roll of stem cells in sports medicine.
Ohio Gov.’s Presidential Bid Faces GOP Scrutiny After Medicaid Expansion Support
Republican presidential hopeful John Kasich may have a tough road ahead to the Republican nomination because of his stances that are at odds with some conservatives. Elsewhere, Sen. Ted Cruz, another GOP presidential hopeful, never got health coverage under the health law.
Previously Unreported Problems At VA Hospitals Detailed
More than 120 investigations into mismanagement and malpractice at the nation’s hospitals that care for veterans were made public by the VA’s assistant inspector general. And, the system confronts challenges regarding increasing its health professional workforce.
PolitiFact Finds Fault With Gov. Scott’s Argument About Florida Hospital Funding
The governor says the federal government shouldn’t consider Medicaid expansion an alternative to special funding for hospitals because different groups benefit from the programs. But PolitiFact suggests that isn’t the case. In other Medicaid news, the North Carolina Hospital Association is encouraging state officials to adopt a Medicaid reform plan.
States With No Exchange Or Medicaid Expansion Have Most To Lose In King V. Burwell: Study
A report finds that the 20 states that did not set up their own exchange or expand their Medicaid programs would lose $721 billion in federal funds over the next decade if the Supreme Court rules health law subsidies in those places illegal.
Health Law Tax On Insurers Being Passed On To State Taxpayers
The Associated Press reports on how insurers are not only passing that levy onto customers but also onto states through costs associated with the Medicaid managed care plans. In addition, Reuters details a recent decision by a U.S. district court judge on retiree health plans that is being viewed as a victory for employers.
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations.
Viewpoints: Gov. Scott’s ‘Irrational’ Moves; Obamacare Success Ignored; Abortion Extremes
A selection of opinions on health care from around the country.
Research Roundup: Medicaid Doctor Pay; Malpractice Settlements; Nursing Home Quality
Each week, KHN compiles a selection of recently released health policy studies and briefs.
News outlets examine health care issues in Massachusetts, Washington, Florida, Kansas, Missouri, California, Louisiana, Connecticut, Texas, New York, Indiana and Maryland.
State legislatures and governors around the country — including in California, Alabama, Louisiana, North Carolina, Wisconsin — are in the throes of their annual budget battles.
Calif. Bill To Tighten Vaccine Rules Sails Through State Senate
The bill, propelled by the recent measles outbreak at Disneyland, would eliminate “personal belief exemptions” from the state’s requirement that children be vaccinated.
Little Progress In Curbing Two Foodborne Bugs That Cause The Most Illness
As health officials continue to try to bring down disease rates caused by such pathogens, several companies are working to help U.S. food makers navigate new federal safety regulations and increased enforcement of food laws.
Flurry Of Bills Target Ongoing Troubles At VA
From taking back bonuses to enacting collective bargaining rights, The Washington Post rounds up changes lawmakers propose for the Department of Veterans Affairs. And The Associated Press reports on the debate over the Denver VA hospital construction project that has run out of money.
Soon-To-Be Released Medicaid Managed Care Regs Likely To Be ‘Epic’
Stakeholders are watching carefully for the regulations, the first such rules issued by the federal government in more than a decade, because states have increasingly been moving toward this managed care model for the federal-state low-income health insurance program.
A National Network Of Seniors Help Identify And Combat Medicare Fraud
Volunteers with the Senior Medicare Patrol aim to “protect, detect and report” fraud schemes by educating fellow Medicare beneficiaries on the risks and red flags.
Settlement Talks Held By Actavis, Justice Department In Warner Chilcott Investigation
In news from another Justice Department probe, PharMerica agreed to pay $31.5 million over charges that it dispensed drugs without a prescription and submitted false Medicare claims.
Nursing Homes In 11 States Get Lowest Quality Ratings
A new study from the Kaiser Family Foundation shows nursing homes in those states score only a 1 or 2 on a scale of 5. (Kaiser Health News is an editorially independent program of the foundation.)
GOP Senator Readies Obamacare Replacement
Sen. Bill Cassidy’s bill would let states opt out of the health law’s mandates and instead offer tax credits for health savings accounts as part of the GOP response to a looming Supreme Court decision on subsidies. Elsewhere, a key Republican says he doesn’t favor an extension of health law subsidies if the justices strikes some of them down. And, a Senate subcommittee investigates the subsidies for payment improprieties.
