Category: Healthcare Finance News

Drug price forecast estimates 3.29% increase in hospital drug spending for 2021

The top 10 COVID-19 medications have seen a combined spend increase of $200 million, showing big increases in March and April.

A large racial divide exists in the concern over ability to pay for COVID-19 treatment

Non-white adults say they’re either “extremely concerned” or “concerned” about the potential cost of care.

Pharma, biotech companies are in testing phase for a COVID-19 vaccine

Many Pfizer/BioNtech sites are in diverse communities that have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19.

Humana invests $100M into Heal’s house call and telehealth platform

The strategic investment will help Heal expand its services into Chicago, Charlotte, Houston and other new regions.

CMS releases data showing COVID-19’s impact on Medicare population

This data confirms that the COVID-19 pandemic is disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations, particularly racial and ethnic minorities.

Healthcare investment reached $18 billion in Q2, setting new record

There were close to 1,300 equity investments in healthcare companies during Q2, with tech startups drawing much of the capital.

Mayo Clinic tops Best Hospitals list released by U.S. News & World report

The rankings were determined in part by rating hospitals in 10 different procedures and conditions.

Providers support Value in Health Care Act that amends MACRA payment model

Among other provisions, the bill extends the 5% advanced APM bonus for an additional six years and modifies thresholds to achieve the bonus. 

President Trump signs four executive orders to reduce drug prices, receives stakeholder criticism

The order reinstates a previously withdrawn rule mandating PBMs to give the rebate savings to consumers, rather than health plans.

Proper implementation of chatbots in healthcare requires diligence

Chatbots can either enhance the value of patient communications or cause confusion or even harm.