Latest Morning Briefing Stories

Can I Afford To Keep My Doctor?

KFF Health News Original

Covered California says most consumers can avoid double-digit premium hikes next year if they shop around. But will enrollees be willing to switch plans if it means having to change doctors?

University Of California OKs $8.5 Million Payout In Spine Surgery Cases

KFF Health News Original

Two Los Angeles area patients alleged a prominent UCLA spine surgeon harmed them by using Medtronic devices in experimental ways without their consent and failing to disclose his financial ties to the company. Both UCLA and Medtronic deny wrongdoing.

Viejos moteles cobran nueva vida ayudando a las personas sin hogar a sanar

KFF Health News Original

El uso de moteles deteriorados para cuidar y albergar temporalmente a personas sin hogar recientemente dadas de alta del hospital ayuda a estabilizarlos de manera económica, previniendo retornos innecesarios y costosos a las salas de emergencia y a los hospitales.

Doctors Get Creative To Distract Tech-Savvy Kids Before Surgery

KFF Health News Original

Anxiety before surgery can be dangerous for kids. Medication can help calm them down. But an anesthesiologist in California has come up with a safer, cheaper and much more entertaining alternative.

If You Want To Spend A Bundle On Your Bundle Of Joy, Go To Northern California

KFF Health News Original

A new study shows that Sacramento and San Francisco are the two most expensive places to give birth among the nation’s 30 largest metropolitan areas. One possible reason: consolidation of hospitals and doctors.

For This Man, Reducing Gun Violence Is A Life’s Mission

KFF Health News Original

Garen Wintemute, an ER doctor, gun violence researcher and advocate of tighter firearms restrictions, finds opportunity in the wake of mass shootings like the one that struck an Orlando night club last month.

Old Motels Get New Life Helping Homeless Heal

KFF Health News Original

Using run-down motels to care for and temporarily house homeless people recently discharged from the hospital helps stabilize them inexpensively, preventing unnecessary and costly returns to ERs and hospitals.