Category: Health Care Costs

Must-Reads Of The Week From Brianna Labuskes

Newsletter editor Brianna Labuskes wades through hundreds of health articles from the week so you don’t have to.

As Hospitals Post Price Lists, Consumers Are Asked To Check Up On Them

Most hospitals appear to be complying with the federal rule to post their prices online. Yet there is little follow-up by the government or industry and debate continues about whether the price lists are creating more confusion than clarity among consumers.

Lawmakers United Against High Drug Prices Bare Partisan Teeth

Clear differences of opinion emerged between Democrats and Republicans during a House Ways and Means subcommittee hearing about how to make prescription drugs more affordable in the Medicare program.

Podcast: KHN’s ‘What The Health?’ What’s Next For The FDA?

Margot Sanger-Katz of The New York Times, Joanne Kenen of Politico and Kimberly Leonard of the Washington Examiner join KHN’s Julie Rovner to discuss the resignation of Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, the latest on federal and state efforts to shore up the Affordable Care Act; and how public health officials plan to persuade parents who are reluctant to vaccinate their kids. Plus, for extra credit, the panelists recommend their favorite health policy stories of the week.

This Time When My Water Breaks, Take Me To A Hospital Without Surprise Bills

New research shows how an experience with surprise medical bills can guide patients’ future decision-making.

Texas Lawmakers Take Aim At Surprise Medical Bills

A bill with bipartisan, bicameral support is on the move in Texas. It would force hospitals and insurers to settle surprise bills — instead of relying on patients to start the mediation process. The KHN/NPR “Bill of the Month” series is a catalyst for the effort.

Must-Reads Of The Week From Brianna Labuskes

Newsletter editor Brianna Labuskes wades through hundreds of health articles from the week so you don’t have to.

Americans Ready To Crack Down On Drug Prices That Force Some To Skip Doses

In a new poll, consumers give thumbs up to ads that display drug prices and the removal of barriers to generics, among other cost-cutting measures.

There’s A New ‘Medicare-For-All’ Bill In The House. Why Does It Matter?

The progressive proposal adds details to the discussion of this controversial approach to overhauling the nation’s health system, and Democratic primary candidates will have to be prepared to get more specific.

Cancer’s Complications: Confusing Bills, Maddening Errors And Endless Phone Calls

Carol Marley has pancreatic cancer — and dealing with its financial toll has become her full-time job.