Jeff Lagasse

Author's posts

HHS launches venture capital partnership on technology to combat future pandemics

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has entered into its first ever venture capital partnership, a public-private agreement that’s ultimately meant to combat future pandemics and other types of health emergencies.

Payers’ digital transformation hindered by lack of vision, says Deloitte

About half of the leaders surveyed identified this lack of vision as an impediment to these ongoing digital transformation initiatives.

HHS: Biden’s FY22 budget will invest in pandemic preparedness, expanding affordable care

Targets for investment include the Strategic National Stockpile, the CDC, and mental health and substance use disorders.

Providing more low-value care doesn’t lead to higher patient experience ratings

There was no direct link between low-value care exposure and favorable patient ratings.

Increasing telehealth utilization boosts member satisfaction with health plans

Significantly increased telehealth utilization and greater adoption of digital communication channels has helped U.S. health plans boost their popularity among members during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the new J.D. Power 2021 U.S. Commercial M…

Healthcare costs for a family of four decrease for the first time in history

For the first time in the 16-year history of the Milliman Medical Index, healthcare costs for a family of four have actually decreased, with the numbers dipping primarily because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the annual MMI report found.
The MMI, published…

Congressional Democrats introduce public option legislation, prompting pushback from hospital groups

Congressional Democrats have issued a request for information on a potential bill that would create a public option for health coverage, prompting pushback from hospital groups who have concerns about the move.

CMS encouraging gig workers from Uber, Lyft and others to sign up for Affordable Care Act coverage

Large online platforms have pledged to provide their workforces with information on affordable coverage.

HHS is dedicating $4.8 billion in ARP funds for COVID-19 testing for the uninsured

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, through the Health Resources and Services Administration, is earmarking $4.8 billion from the American Rescue Plan to support the HRSA COVID-19 Uninsured Program, HHS announced this week. 

Bassett Healthcare Network, Optum partner to advance quality care and better patient experiences

Optum will provide revenue cycle management, data and analytics capabilities in a revamp of Bassett’s operations.