Category: Health Care Costs

Surprise Settlement In Sutter Health Antitrust Case

Sutter Health has reached a tentative settlement in an antitrust suit brought by the California Attorney General’s Office. Details have not been made public.

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.

Think ‘Medicare For All’ Is The Only Democratic Health Plan? Think Again

The Democratic presidential candidates have hit hard on health care, but generally the debates have centered on what kind of system candidates propose. The candidates’ ideas on many other issues, such as mental health and gun safety, have attracted much less attention.

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.

Where Contraception’s A Lifestyle Drug Not A Medical Need — So Women Pay The Tab

Unlike in the U.S., health insurance in Germany doesn’t cover birth control. Advocates here say that causes health problems — but change is unlikely.

Why Hospitals Are Getting Into The Housing Business

Hospital systems now invest in housing to help some of their most frequent patients. This allows them to safely discharge patients who otherwise would have no place to go, freeing up beds for sicker patients and saving the hospitals money.