Category: Cost and Quality

Health Care Stayed Front And Center At Democratic Debate

The topic, which polls show is top of mind among voters, kept returning throughout the fourth debate of Democratic presidential candidates.

Patients Eligible For Charity Care Instead Get Big Bills

Nonprofit hospitals admit they sent $2.7 billion in bills over the course of a year to patients who probably qualified for free or discounted care.

As Medicare Enrollment Nears, Popular Price Comparison Tool Is Missing

For more than a decade, customers used the online plan finder to compare dozens of policies. Yet after a redesign of the website, the search results no longer list which plan offers a customer the best value. Federal officials say it will be fixed before enrollment begins next week.

Trump’s New Order For Medicare Packs Potential Rise In Patients’ Costs

The president’s directive, which he said is designed to give beneficiaries more choices in their health care, could lead to higher costs for seniors. Final rules are to be written by the Department of Health and Human Services.

Extent Of Health Coverage Gains From California Gig Worker Law Uncertain

The new law reclassifies many independent contractors as employees, requiring they be offered a range of benefits. But that could have unintended consequences, experts warn.

Extent Of Health Coverage Gains From California Gig Worker Law Uncertain

The new law reclassifies many independent contractors as employees, requiring they be offered a range of benefits. But that could have unintended consequences, experts warn.

Trump Speech Offers Dizzying Preview Of His Health Care Campaign Strategy

The president’s outline of key health policy concerns touched on a variety of hot-button issues from drug prices to immigration.

Tenn. Block Grant Experiment Would Boost Federal Funding, State Medicaid Chief Says

In a Q&A with Kaiser Health News, Tennessee Medicaid Director Gabe Roberts says state officials are requesting a modified block grant from federal officials because it would save money and allow the state to keep some of that savings.

Walmart To Give Workers Financial Incentives To Use Higher-Quality Doctors

The program, which will roll out next year in three parts of the country, seeks to encourage workers on the company’s health plan to choose doctors that have been identified as providing “appropriate, effective and cost-efficient care.”

Cosmetic Surgery And The Secret World of Instagram Dolls

An Instagram community of “doll pages” lets women find valuable information about body-sculpting journeys.