Latest KFF Health News Stories
Health Law Spurs State Shift in Long-Term Care
Many states are taking advantage of a $3 billion health law program meant to help older Americans avoid nursing homes and instead get long-term care in their own homes — something many of them prefer.
Congress Is Poised To Change Medicare Payment Policy. What Does That Mean For Patients And Doctors?
Capitol Hill committees appear close to replacing the controversial physician payment system that rewards doctors for volume with one that offers incentives for quality and coordination of care.
Some Medical Schools Shaving Off A Year Of Training
The chance to finish medical school early is attracting increased attention from students burdened with six-figure education loans. Medical school administrators and policymakers see it as a way to produce doctors faster and as a response to the looming shortage of primary care physicians.
Emergency Rooms Are Front Line For Enrolling New Obamacare Customers
While it may be a logical place to enroll the uninsured, consumer confusion — and illness — are hurdles for outreach workers.
Maryland’s Bold Hospital Spending Plan Gets Federal Blessing
Maryland hospitals have agreed to new spending limits and big changes in the way they are paid, creating what could be a national model.
Nonprofit Health Centers Go Into For-Profit Insurance Business
A growing number are starting managed care plans to boost revenue and gain more control over patient care.
Are There Enough Doctors For The Newly Insured?
With the health law bringing newly insured consumers as of Jan. 1, experts wonder whether some will have trouble gaining access to timely treatment.
Consumers Beware: Not All Health Plans Cover A Doctor’s Visit Before The Deductible Is Met
Those buying some bronze and silver plans could have to spend thousands before full coverage kicks in.
Health Insurers Scramble Toward Jan. 1 Coverage Deadlines
Rule changes and deadline shifts have complicated the efforts of health insurance companies to prepare for a wave of new customers and “post-enrollment snafus.”
Wash. Hospital CEO Gets Pay Cut – To Just Over $1M A Year
Rich Roodman, Valley Medical Center’s chief executive, has won a new two-year employment contract that will pay him more than $1 million annually in salary and bonuses.
Medicare Identifies 97 Best And 95 Worst Hospitals For Hip And Knee Replacements
The new analysis is part of the government’s effort to improve the quality of care.
Table: Hospitals Judged Best And Worst For Hip And Knee Readmissions And Complications
Medicare has evaluated how often patients undergoing hip and knee surgery were readmitted or suffered a serious complication. These hospitals did much better or worse than average.
How Palliative Care Helps: One Iowa Family’s Journey
‘This is their life. They’re the boss,’ says Dr. Tim Ihrig of the palliative care department at UnityPoint hospital in Fort Dodge, Iowa. ‘It’s an honor to be on this journey.’
In Hollywood, Health Coverage Presents Unique Challenges
The entertainment industry relies heavily on freelancers and independent contractors who rarely are able to gain health insurance through their employers. Though the health law might help some, people in this industry still sometimes face difficulties in the health care system.
Promises To Fix Mental Health System Still Unfulfilled
Even for those with the will and drive to pursue treatment, the process remains difficult, frightening and full of holes. On the federal level, little has come from the task forces and promises that followed the Newtown shootings.
New York Data Show Hospital Charges All Over The Map
Consumers should not assume that facilities provide better care because they charge more, experts say.
Why Some State Health Exchanges Worked
The most successful exchanges kept things simple, amply tested systems
More Than 110,000 Signed Up For Coverage Through Healthcare.gov In November
Navigators report a surge in consumer interest since the website became easier to use.
Insurers Question Health Benefits Of Some Genetic Tests
When a test is covered, typically genetic counseling is, too — to make sure the patient is a good candidate and to explain the results.
Some California Insurance Plans Narrow Doctor, Hospital Choices
In an effort to reduce costs, Blue Shield sent thousands of cancellation notices informing customers that the company will begin to offer newer, more limited plans at the beginning of the year.
