jlagasse

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Medicare Advantage supplemental benefits grew in 36 out of 41 categories for 2021

The most widely offered benefits include vision, hearing, fitness and dental care.

Medicare fee-for-service utilization decreased dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic

Utilization among whites decreased more than among the Black or Hispanic populations but the largest utilization decreases were among Asians.

Biomaterials could mean better vaccines, virus-fighting surfaces in hospitals

These developments may decrease the likelihood that future pandemics will match COVID-19’s disruption to the U.S. healthcare system.

Humana joins with IBM Watson Health on AI tool

Humana is also working with CMS on a demonstration program for a hospice benefit for MA members.

A more active role for consumers will decelerate health spending over the next two decades

New data-driven business models will create what Deloitte calls a "well-being dividend," shaving billions off projected health spend.

Hospital, insurer and employer groups band together in bid to achieve universal coverage

The groups said that Americans "deserve a stable healthcare market that provides access to high-quality care and affordable coverage for all."

Pharmacy sales drive Walgreens’ Q1 financials up 5%

2020 was rough, but based on FY 2021 Q1 earnings report figures, prospects for the coming year seem much better.

Kaiser Permanente hit by pandemic but remains in the black in 2020

Year-end financials are being watched closely as the healthcare system gets a handle on the full impact of COVID-19.

Cigna eliminates prior authorization requirements for some CT exams

Prior authorization is also eliminated for 3D image post-processing, including the evaluation of cardiac structure and function.

Humana posts $274 million in losses in the fourth quarter

The organization still managed a $3.1 billion profit for the year, a significant 25% increase from 2019.