Latest KFF Health News Stories
UnitedHealth’s Profit Jumps 23 Percent In Third Quarter
The raised profit forecast for the nation’s largest insurer was attributed to big enrollment boosts in the company’s Medicare and Medicaid plans, even as medical costs remained stable despite an improved economy.
Lawsuits Challenging Health Law’s Birth Control Coverage Mandate: 35 And Counting
MedPage Today takes a look at the state of play regarding the growing number of challenges to this part of the health law.
A selection of editorials and opinions on health care from around the country.
Behind The Campaign Frenzy, Big Issues At Stake In Presidential Election
The nation’s budget and debt issues will be a force in how lawmakers and the president — whether it is Barack Obama or Mitt Romney — go forward on issues like containing the costs of Medicare and expanding health insurance.
Debate Previews: What To Watch For In Style And Substance On Health Care
News outlets predict that health issues — including GOP presidential hopeful Mitt Romney’s plan for pre-existing condition coverage — will play a role in tonight’s debate.
First Edition: October 16, 2012
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations, including reports about a study regarding the possible impact of premium support on Medicare premiums.
Polls, Debate Prep and Ads About Medicare, Medicaid
Media outlets report on the latest poll findings and preview Tuesday night’s presidential debate. The headlines also detail the risks associated with the high volume of campaign ads voters face.
Health Care, Medicare Will Pose Major Challenges To The Winner
The victor of the presidential contest will face huge policy decisions including how to maintain Medicare’s solvency and whether to implement the 2010 health law. News outlets analyze where President Barack Obama and GOP presidential hopeful Mitt Romney stand on these issues.
Questions Abound On Compounding Pharmacies After Meningitis Outbreak
Compounding pharmacies are continuing to face intense scrutiny over their drug preparation and lobbying habits after one in Massachusetts is suspected in distributing a steroid that led to a meningitis outbreak.
Health Premiums Could Wipe Out Social Security Boost; Medicare Enrollment Begins
Some popular prescription drug plans face double-digit premium increases.
WellPoint Plans Reorganization; CVS Denies Knowledge Of Drug Refill Investigation
Health insurer WellPoint plans a reorganization under its new interim CEO, while CVS officials say they are unaware of a government probe of prescription refill practices, which was originally reported by the Los Angeles Times.
Hospital Payments Will Soon Be Tied In Part To Patient Satisfaction
The Wall Street Journal reports that, in the year ahead, nearly $1 billion in payments to hospitals will be based in part on patient satisfaction.
State Roundup: Health Care Construction Boom In Texas
News outlets report on health care developments in California, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York and Texas.
News outlets detail the latest developments in the Virginia and Wisconsin Senate races, as well as in the House contests in California.
In V.P. Debate Redux, Candidates’ Policies Scrutinized
Coverage in the days after the vice presidential debate between Joe Biden and Paul Ryan examines policy positions, claims, and accusations related to Medicare, Medicaid and other policy points.
Several news outlets offer opinions on health care issues in the presidential campaign.
Viewpoints: Cancer Doctors Reject ‘Phenomenally Expensive’ New Drug; Protecting Patients’ Rights
A selection of editorials and opinions on health care from around the country.
Romney’s Positions On Abortion, Planned Parenthood Funding Draw Political Fire
Both the Obama and Romney campaigns are issuing new campaign ads related to women’s health issues and attempting to stake out policy positions.
First Edition: October 15, 2012
Today’s early morning highlights from the major news organizations, including the latest developments and polling news from the presidential campaign trail as well as details about how Medicare and other health issues are shaping up in House and Senate races.
As Open Season Begins, More Medicare Advantage Plans Get Top Ratings
CMS announces that 127 plans earn four- or five-stars, which puts them in line for government bonuses.