Latest KFF Health News Stories
A selection of editorials and opinions on health care from around the country.
This finding was part of a Congressional Budget Office cost estimate regarding legislation to make domestic partners eligible for all the benefits that apply to opposite-sex spouses of federal employees and retirees.
First Edition: November 28, 2012
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations, including reports about how party positions on entitlement programs are playing into the ‘fiscal cliff’ negotiations.
Democrats Resist Significant Changes To Medicare, Other Entitlement Programs
Efforts to avert the looming “fiscal cliff” have revived talk of raising Medicare’s eligibility age. Some Republicans also suggest that spending to carry out the health law should be viewed as a source for savings. Meanwhile, an important meeting is scheduled for Wednesday.
High Court OKs Liberty University’s Push To Argue Claims Against The Health Law
The arguments, which were not considered in the earlier Supreme Court review of the overhaul, maintain that it is unconstitutional for the government to require large employers to provide health insurance to their full-time workers or pay a tax and that the law violates the school’s religious freedoms.
Impact Of Medicaid Expansion Would Vary By State, According To Study
The analysis released Monday explored how some states would experience savings while others would see cost increases as a result of the health law’s plan to expand Medicaid.
Progress Check On States And Health Insurance Exchanges
With Democrats regaining control of the New Hampshire House, lawmakers could revisit a GOP decision not to build a health insurance exchange. In the meantime, Oregon, California and Missouri officials seek to clarify their options.
Critics Look To House Panels To Restrain Health Law; Big Policy Issues Remain
Questions remain on implementing the health law — both politically and in settling policy matters — as opponents look to House committees to police the Obama administration’s activities to get the law up and running.
State Roundup: Conn. Official Says Bulk Buying Prescription Drugs Could Help Budget
A selection of health policy stories from Connecticut, Mississippi, California, Wisconsin, Florida and North Carolina.
Earnings Outlook Weaker Than Expected For UnitedHealth
The Los Angeles Times reports that the nation’s largest health insurer is predicting earnings that will be less than earlier estimated suggested amid worries about economic growth and federal negotiations about spending.
A selection of editorials and opinions on health policy from around the country.
First Edition: November 27, 2012
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations, including reports about how increasing the Medicare eligibility age and making other entitlement program changes are a part of the ongoing “fiscal cliff” discourse.
States Face Increased Medicaid Costs Even If They Don’t Expand Program
Even if no state expands Medicaid, state spending on the program will still increase $68 billion, a new study says.
With Administration’s Support, Supreme Court Orders Review Of ‘Obamacare’ Challenge
The court told the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals to consider Liberty University’s challenge against the individual mandate and the requirement that employers offer health insurance to workers.
Report: Coverage of Smoking Cessation Treatments Is Spotty Despite Health Law
The health law requires full coverage of preventive services like smoking cessation, but coverage is inconsistent.
Lawmakers Return To Washington To Face The ‘Fiscal Cliff’
As interest groups ranging from business lobbies to AARP mobilize to protect their constituencies, some Democrats acknowledge that Medicare and Medicaid need to be part of the conversation.
Health Law Implementation Proceeds — With Fits And Starts
Even as the election has altered the landscape for lawmakers who hoped to repeal the 2010 health law, some opponents are pressing on with legal challenges. Specific elements of the law, such as its health exchanges, also present logistical and financial issues for the Obama administration.
Views On Health Law: ‘Hyperactive Regulators’ Shift Into Gear; States Need To Stop ‘Foot-Dragging’
Several news outlets offer views on the current issues surrounding the 2010 health law.
Parents With Disabilities Face Challenges Gaining Custody Of Children
A new report details how some parents with disabilities face a number of barriers.
Pediatricians Called To Prescribe ‘Morning-After’ Pills In Advance
The American Academy of Pediatrics urged pediatricians to counsel adolescent patients about emergency contraception.
