Category: Health Care Costs

The Deep Divide: State Borders Create Medicaid Haves And Have-Nots

State borders can highlight Medicaid’s arbitrary coverage. On the Missouri side of the Mississippi River, low-income people struggle with untreated health issues. But on the Illinois side, people in similar straits can get health care because their state expanded its Medicaid program under the Affordable Care Act.

Her Biopsy Report Was Benign. But The Bill Is A Spot Of Contention.

After a test to rule out cancer, Brianna Snitchler faced a $2,170 facility fee for the hospital’s radiology room used that day.

Insurers Test New Way To Cut Maternity Care Costs: Bundling

More insurers are experimenting with paying health care providers one lump sum to cover the cost of maternity care. Physicians and insurers hope the model — known as bundled payments — will help improve health outcomes.

KHN’s ‘What The Health?’: Impeachment And The Health Agenda

Washington is abuzz with impeachment talk, but what impact would such a move have on congressional action on prescription drug prices and surprise bills? Also, a study out this week shows that health insurance costs for both employers and workers continue to rise. This week, Joanne Kenen of Politico, Paige Winfield Cunningham of The Washington Post and Rebecca Adams of CQ Roll Call join KHN’s Julie Rovner to discuss these issues and more.

As Health Care Costs Rise, Workers At Low-Wage Firms May Pay A Larger Share

People at companies with large numbers of people earning $25,000 or less faced bigger deductibles for single coverage and were asked to pony up a larger share of their income in premiums than those at other firms.

College Won’t Be Fun If You’re Not Healthy. Take This Advice About Health Insurance.

As you enter college this fall, health insurance may not be at the top of your mind. But it’s important to have coverage if you have a chronic condition or if something unexpected happens. Luckily, college students have several options.

As Off-Label Use Spreads, Supplies Of Niche Drugs And Patients’ Patience Grow Short

The reasons behind one particular shortage of a therapy known as IVIG are complicated, stemming from increased demand and the medication’s long production window.

Hill Hodgepodge: Pelosi Draws From Democrats, GOP And Trump For Drug Plan

The House speaker announced her plan for lowering drug prices, which includes negotiations between drugmakers and federal health officials.

KHN’s ‘What The Health?’: Tennessee Seeks Medicaid Changes

Tennessee wants to convert its Medicaid program to a block grant. But is its plan legal? Meanwhile, Congress continues to struggle with legislation to rein in prescription drug prices and surprise medical bills. This week, Anna Edney of Bloomberg News, Jennifer Haberkorn of the Los Angeles Times and Kimberly Leonard of the Washington Examiner join KHN’s Julie Rovner to discuss these issues and more. Rovner also interviews Dr. Marty Makary, author of the new book “The Price We Pay” about why health care costs so much.

Which Was Worse: The Bachelor Party Hangover Or The Hangover From The ER Bill?

One groom’s bachelor party hangover illustrates how emergency room bills have become major headaches for many Americans.