Latest KFF Health News Stories
Colorado Gets Closer To Essential Health Benefit Benchmark
Colorado is moving forward with broad consensus among the state’s decision makers on the minimum level of health coverage people will be required to carry beginning in 2014.
Health Premiums Rise A Relatively Modest 4 Percent, Study Finds
Analysts attribute slowed growth to people using less health care as a result of higher deductibles, continuing weak economy.
Bill Clinton On Medicare: ‘There Were No Cuts To Benefits At All’
As part of his 50-minute defense of the Obama administration’s record, the former president praised Obama’s health policies, asking, “Are we better off because President Obama fought for health care reform? You bet we are.”
Biz Groups Push For Answers On Minnesota Exchange
The head of the largest business group in Minnesota has a message for both Democrats and Republicans as the state attempts to plan a health insurance exchange: We need answers, fast.
‘Obamacare’ Plays Starring Role In First Night Of Convention
Several speakers cited the 2010 health law as a signature achievement of the Obama administration Tuesday night at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C. This video sample includes Stacey Lihn, the mother of a child with congenital heart disease, HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, San Antonio Mayor Juli
State experiment gets scrutiny amid national debate over role of insurance regulation in rising coverage costs.
Hospitals Look To Become Insurers, As Well As Providers Of Care
Under new model, “the last place I’ll want you to be is in the hospital,” says CEO.
Q&A: Paying For Ambulance Services
Michelle Andrews answers a reader question about what you can do when insurance only covers a portion of an ambulance bill.
Many People Would Like To Know Their Risk Of Developing Alzheimer’s Disease
Current testing provides only limited information and is generally discouraged by experts. In addition, health insurance generally doesn’t cover it.
Colorado Pursues Insurance Exchange-But Keeps Fighting About It
A special legislative committee gave Colorado the green light on Thursday to continue working on its health insurance exchange by allowing it to apply for a $43 million federal grant. But first the lawmakers had to fight about it.
Some Plans Deny Pregnancy Coverage For Dependent Children
Although group health plans must cover workers or their spouses if they become pregnant, they don’t have to extend that insurance to children.
Missouri Ballot Referendum Makes Health Law A Hot Issue
The health care law isn’t the first issue on most voters’ minds, but in Missouri there’s a high-profile battle over whether to establish a state insurance exchange.
Group Health Teams With Hospital System In Pacific Northwest
The joint venture seeks to coordinate patient care and cut costs for employers and health plans.
New Federal Transportation Law Encourages Stricter Teen Driving Regs
Efforts by states over the past decade have cracked down on young drivers and tried to curb distractions, but safety experts say more still needs to be done.
Olympians Face Unique Health Insurance Options
U.S. Olympic athletes have a number of health insurance options, including the U.S. Olympic Committee’s Elite Athlete Insurance Program.
Forget The Company Plan-The Boss Wants You On Dad’s Insurance
Employers can encourage young adults to forego the office’s plan and take advantage of health law provision allowing them to join their parents’ policy.
Texas Advocates Push Insurance Rate Review
The Perry Administration’s Department of Insurance has nine reviews pending on insurers that are raising premiums more than 10 percent.
Q&A: Upfront Payment For Medical Procedures
Michelle Andrews answers a consumer question about providers requesting advance payment for medical tests and other services.
Health Law Deadlines Under Pressure
The Supreme Court ruling shifts the focus to states. But between 20 and 40 may be unable to set up new online insurance markets by fall 2013.
