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Latest KFF Health News Stories

San Francisco’s Universal Health Care Model

KFF Health News Original

The Healthy San Francisco Plan, the city’s public health plan for the uninsured, has many of the elements currently under consideration in Washington, D.C. It was proposed as a stopgap measure until Congress moved ahead with universal coverage. Now, it’s being heralded as a public option that works and a model for reform.

Health On The Hill – September 15, 2009

KFF Health News Original

KHN’s Mary Agnes Carey and Eric Pianin are joined by NPR’s Julie Rovner to discuss Sen. Max Baucus’ health reform package and the chances for Republican support for a health overhaul bill.

Checking In With Dr. Abraham Verghese On The Importance Of The Bedside Manner

KFF Health News Original

The author of “My Own Country” and “Cutting For Stone” talks about his solution to the critical shortage of primary care physicians, the impact of technology on the patient-physician relationship and ‘the charm and magic’ of being at a patient’s bedside.

Poll Finds Most Doctors Support Public Option

KFF Health News Original

In the heated, political back-and-forth of the health care debate, doctors’ voices aren’t always heard. A new, comprehensive nationwide survey finds that 73 percent of doctors support the inclusion of a public option.

Can Obama Pay For His Health Bill?

KFF Health News Original

President Obama said in his speech Wednesday that most of his health care plan “can be paid for by finding savings within the existing health care system.” Economists say there are ways to squeeze savings out of the existing health care system, but they might not make people happy.

Living In A ‘Medical Home’

KFF Health News Original

Several states are implementing “medical home” programs, which shifts the health care system from emphasizing acute care for emergencies, such as heart attacks and strokes, to one focusing more on treating – or preventing – chronic illnesses.

Excerpts From The President’s Speech To Congress On Health Care Reform

KFF Health News Original

Highlights of the president’s address to Congress include his proposals for guaranteed insurance coverage, mandates to buy insurance and insurance exchanges. He endorsed a ‘public option,’ but said he would remain open to other ideas to expand coverage.