Author's posts
Lack of robust data analysis impedes care improvement efforts
Even though 91% of surgical and medical specialists believe that increasing physician access to cost data would improve care, only 40% said that their health systems are making the effort, according to new research.
Tenet extends long-term contract with Cerner
Tenet Healthcare Corp. has extended its long-term contract with the electronic health records vendor Cerner Corp. The two companies have had contracts for more than 20 years, even as other Cerner customers express frustration with the company’s…
Democrats introduce revamped Medicare Part D negotiation bill
The proposal led by Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas) and Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) would let the government override patents if manufacturers don’t play ball on drug prices for Part D.
Athenahealth shareholders vote in favor of $5.7 billion purchase
Athenahealth’s shareholders have given the green light for the EHR vendor to be purchased by two private equity firms in a deal worth $5.7 billion. They also supported a generous compensation package for the company’s executive officers and…
State tells UPMC to keep its network open to Highmark, other plans
Pennsylvania’s attorney general has picked a side in the long-running battle between UPMC and Highmark Health. He’s trying to force UPMC to fairly negotiate with Highmark and other health plans.
New transparency requirements, loss of safe harbor for PBMs and drugmakers in proposed rule
Pharmacy benefit managers could face new transparency requirements over fees they negotiate with drugmakers if a new rebate rule is approved.
FDA: Walgreens a ‘top violator’ of selling tobacco to minors
The FDA is going after retail pharmacy giant Walgreens Boots Alliance for repeated violations involving selling tobacco products to minors. Walgreens says it’s working to resolve those issues.
Kaiser Permanente lays off 200 Colorado employees
Kaiser Permanente is laying off another 200 employees in Colorado, where it is the largest not-for-profit health plan. The integrated health system also laid off 200 employees in November.
U.S. attorney in Philadelphia sues over safe injection site
The lawsuit pits a federal prosecutor’s stance on safe injection sites against those of Philadelphia’s mayor, district attorney and a former Pennsylvania governor. The U.S. attorney believes supporters should try to change the laws, not break them.
Dems refocus on Obamacare without clear policy path
This week House Democrats are putting messaging around the Affordable Care Act front and center.
