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Latest KFF Health News Stories

Former Federal Virus Hunter Says U.S. Needs To Act Before New Germs ‘Kick Your Door In’

KFF Health News Original

In an interview, Dennis Carroll, who until last fall headed up the emerging threats unit at USAID, spoke about the threat of more germs, like the novel coronavirus, appearing and whether the world is prepared for this pandemic.

How Intrepid Lab Sleuths Ramped Up Tests As Coronavirus Closed In

KFF Health News Original

Drs. Keith Jerome and Alex Greninger fast-tracked a test for the deadly new coronavirus weeks before it began spreading in the U.S. Their work has been key to detecting community transmission and ramping up the nation’s testing capacity.

The High Cost Of Being Trump’s Enemy

KFF Health News Original

The ongoing feud between President Donald Trump and California’s Democratic leaders is costing the Golden State hundreds of millions of health care dollars — with billions more at stake.

Looking For Answers After Coronavirus Contact? Welcome To The Gray Zone

KFF Health News Original

The COVID-19 outbreak has spawned confusion among health officials, doctors and the public, especially for people who fall into the gray area for testing and deciding whether they need to quarantine themselves. Where to turn for answers about isolation and quarantine varies by locale. All this means agencies are sometimes delaying needed advice and giving people incorrect information.

Donald Trump’s Wrong Claim That ‘Anybody’ Can Get Tested For Coronavirus

KFF Health News Original

The process is not as simple as calling your doctor or pharmacy, saying you want to be tested for COVID-19 and getting it done. Clinicians decide whether patients meet the criteria to warrant it. Circumstances are further complicated because tests are in short supply.

Congress Approves Boost In Food Aid For Seniors But Funding Falls Short Of Growing Need

KFF Health News Original

Congress passed legislation Wednesday reauthorizing the Older Americans Act, which provides for home-delivered and group meals. Although proposed funding increases are substantial, they still don’t keep up with the nation’s growing senior population.

Tampons, Pads And Politics Mesh In New Push For Access To Menstrual Supplies

KFF Health News Original

As a national movement for better access to menstrual products gains steam, “period equity” activists in Colorado are finding the path to change isn’t straight. Although Denver last summer repealed sales taxes on menstrual products and the state now requires supplies to be provided in prisons, an effort to repeal the statewide sales tax on the products failed. So, activists assemble supply kits to donate to those who need them.

How To Avoid Coronavirus? Lessons From People Whose Lives Depend On It

KFF Health News Original

As the new coronavirus continues its spread through the U.S., the general public can look for guidance from millions of Americans with weakened immune systems who long ago adopted the rules of infection control that officials tout to avoid contagion.

Heart Association Puts Halt To Bayer’s Giant Displays Of Baby Aspirin

KFF Health News Original

After Kaiser Health News’ questions, the association tells the aspirin maker to take down display bins at Walmart pharmacies that gave a false impression that the over-the-counter drug is recommended for everyone to prevent heart attacks.

Dental Shock: Six Pulled Teeth And One Unexpected Bill

KFF Health News Original

One woman’s experience with the high cost of dental care and confusing Medicare coverage offers a teachable moment for other consumers. Her small church took up a collection, but the surprise bill — four times what she expected to pay — was sent to collections.