Latest Morning Briefing Stories

Easier-to-Use Coronavirus Saliva Tests Start to Catch On

KFF Health News Original

Regulators and scientists have been leery of introducing the tests, preferring to rely on tried-and-true methods, but evidence is mounting that the spit and swab tests may be more convenient and just as accurate.

Not Pandemic-Proof: Insulin Copay Caps Fall Short, Fueling Underground Exchanges

KFF Health News Original

Although sharing prescription medicines is illegal, many people with diabetes are turning to underground donation networks when they cannot afford their insulin. Caps on insulin copays enacted in Colorado and 11 other states were designed to help. But the gaps between insulin costs and many patients’ financial realities are only widening amid the economic crisis of the COVID pandemic.

Wear a Mask. If Only It Were That Simple.

KFF Health News Original

Health experts agree masks are the cheapest, best weapon against the coronavirus pandemic. But how should mask-wearing be enforced? Mandates? Fines? Polite requests? It’s hard to figure out what works as President Donald Trump’s behavior keeps the debate alive over whether they should be worn at all.

New Laws Keep Pandemic-Weary California at Forefront of Health Policy Innovation

KFF Health News Original

Gov. Gavin Newsom approved many consequential health care bills by his bill-signing deadline Wednesday, including a ban on the sale of menthol and other flavored tobacco products, the creation of a state generic drug label and better coverage for mental health disorders.

Lo que sabemos sobre la transmisión aérea del coronavirus

KFF Health News Original

Aunque los CDC removieron la información de su sitio web, muchos incidentes y estudios apuntan hacia la idea de que las partículas en el aire juegan un papel más importante de lo que se pensaba.

The First Presidential Debate: A Night of Rapid-Fire Interruptions and Inaccuracies

KFF Health News Original

Tuesday night’s presidential debate offered voters their first side-by-side comparison of the candidates, President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden.

What We Know About the Airborne Spread of the Coronavirus

KFF Health News Original

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has gone back-and-forth on this issue. One thing remains clear: Though science is evolving, indications do point toward the potential for airborne transmission.

Post-COVID Clinics Get Jump-Start From Patients With Lingering Illness

KFF Health News Original

Pop-up care facilities bring together a range of specialists to address the needs of patients who survive but continue to wrestle with COVID-19’s physical or mental effects, including lung damage, heart or neurological concerns, anxiety and depression.