Morning Breakouts

Latest KFF Health News Stories

UnitedHealth’s Profit Jumps 23 Percent In Third Quarter

Morning Briefing

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.

Behind The Campaign Frenzy, Big Issues At Stake In Presidential Election

Morning Briefing

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.

First Edition: October 16, 2012

Morning Briefing

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

Morning Briefing

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

Morning Briefing

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

Morning Briefing

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.

WellPoint Plans Reorganization; CVS Denies Knowledge Of Drug Refill Investigation

Morning Briefing

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.

In V.P. Debate Redux, Candidates’ Policies Scrutinized

Morning Briefing

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.

First Edition: October 15, 2012

Morning Briefing

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.