Author's posts
Brightpoint Health and HRHCare merger creates New York’s largest network of FQHCs
Brightpoint Health and HRHCare have received all the needed regulatory approvals to merge, creating what they say is the largest network of federally qualified health centers in the state of New York.
Court: Testimony from OxyContin maker must be unsealed
A Kentucky appeals court says the secret testimony from a former president of one of the world’s largest manufacturers of dangerously addictive opioid painkillers must be released to the public.
Phase in DSH hospital cuts, overhaul policy, Medicaid panel advises
The advisory panel will recommend that Congress slowly phase in disproportionate-share hospital cuts, due to start in October, but will not suggest that lawmakers continue delaying them.
MACPAC recommends tighter UPL controls
A federal advisory panel for Medicaid wants HHS to better monitor Medicaid’s biggest supplemental payment program for hospitals after finding that states have been overspending billions of dollars.
Commentary: Health systems should look within to address social determinants
There’s now a strong understanding that social factors can have a greater impact on health and well-being than clinical care. Health systems should use that knowledge to improve the health of their own employees as well as their patients.
Health insurers look to digital tools to improve customer experience
Health insurers say investing in digital tools and other technologies can help them improve the customer experience by giving plan members a personalized, frictionless healthcare experience.
Massachusetts healthcare spending growth drops in 2017
Healthcare spending only grew by 1.6% in Massachusetts from 2016 to 2017, nearly half the rate in 2015 and 2016 and well below the state’s 3.6% cost growth benchmark, according to the Massachusetts Health Policy Commission.
Vermont health system CEO resigns amid financial troubles
Springfield Hospital said in a statement that the hospital is “facing challenges created by a declining population, rising costs, below-cost reimbursements from payers, and an increase in the number of patients who are unable to pay for care.”
AMA tool helps doctors talk to patients about gun safety
The American Medical Association on Thursday launched a new tool to aid physicians in talking with patients about reducing the risk of firearm injury and death.
California approves Cigna-Express Scripts merger with conditions
California regulators approved health insurer Cigna Corp.’s acquisition of pharmacy benefit manager Express Scripts, bringing the $67 billion deal a step nearer to closing.
