Latest KFF Health News Stories
Burwell Says It’s Up To States, Congress To Help Consumers If Court Strikes Down Subsidies
The HHS secretary’s remarks on Capitol Hill came as both Democrats and Republicans await a Supreme Court decision on the issue this month.
Texas’ Tough Abortion Restrictions Mostly Upheld By Appeals Court
Abortion rights groups say the ruling would leave only eight clinics open statewide.
Organ Donation: State Efforts Have Done Little To Close The Supply Gap
A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that most state-based policies to encourage organ donation in the United States have fallen flat.
Obama, Championing The Health Law, Says It Shows The Country ‘We Want To Be’
As he awaits a decision from the Supreme Court on federal subsidies to help cover the cost of premiums in three dozen states, the president points to the millions who have gained insurance and decries efforts by political opponents.
Consumers In Grandfathered Plans Can Face Higher Costs For Preventive Benefits
The plans, which were in existence when the health law was enacted in 2010 and have not changed significantly, cover about a quarter of insured workers.
Pa., Del. Move To Maintain Health Insurance Subsidy Access
A soon-to-be-announced Supreme Court ruling could threaten health insurance subsidies for millions of people in about three dozen states. But many state officials aren’t sharing contingency plans lest they be seen as supporting Obamacare.
Insurer Uses Patients’ Personal Data To Predict Who Will Get Sick
A Philadelphia health insurance company analyzes its clients’ health data and other factors to find the frailest and assign them health coaches. That may improve health, but is it a breach of privacy?
Study: Highest-Charging U.S. Hospitals Are For-Profits, Concentrated In Florida
Most of the 50 hospitals with the highest charges are in the South and about half are owned by for-profit Community Health Systems.
What Health Law? Many Poor People Still Unaware Of Obamacare Options
State policies are found to have big impact on residents’ awareness of the health care law and sign-up rates.
Bill To Speed FDA Approvals Includes Rewards For Drugs Designed For Kids
The 21st Century Cures bill now being considered by Congress would extend a program that promotes pediatric drug research.
What’s At Stake When The Supreme Court Rules On Health Plan Subsidies
A decision in King v. Burwell is expected by the end of the month.
Anti-Abortion Activists See Mixed Results In Texas Legislature
Legislation tightening rules for minors seeking abortions passes in Texas and is expected to become law. Another bill favored by abortion opponents fails.
New Preventive Health Services Approved For No-Cost Coverage
Two new procedures have been added to the list of what should be covered by insurance without charge to consumers under provisions of the health law.
Growing Pains For State Obamacare Exchanges
Minnesota, Colorado and Connecticut are figuring out how to continue running their health insurance marketplaces as federal start-up funding runs out.
Florida To Review Proposed Obamacare Rate Hikes For First Time
After two years with its hands tied, the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation will be able to review proposed rate increases in a market seeing double digit hikes.
Bringing Doctors To Patients Who Need Them Most
California’s sprawling Inland Empire is making vigorous efforts to train and attract primary care doctors attuned to the needs of the fast-growing and under-served population.
Paramedics See Roles Expand – Minus The Lights And Sirens
In Reno and around the country, community paramedics are providing more primary and preventive care and taking nonemergency patients to facilities other than ERs.
KHN Video: The Supreme Court Decision In King v. Burwell Could Affect Your Wallet
Confused about the latest challenge to the Affordable Care Act before the Supreme Court? The justices are expected to rule on the King v. Burwell case by the end of the month. Here’s what you need to know about it — in less than 2 minutes.
More Patients, Not Fewer, Turn To Health Clinics After Obamacare
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.
Pennsylvania Governor Plans State Insurance Exchange To Protect Subsidies
It is unclear whether the Republican-dominated General Assembly has to approve Wolf’s plan, which is designed protect residents’ subsidies should the Supreme Court void subsidies in states that rely on the federal exchange.