The data shows a trend toward comprehensive benefits and significant cost savings, though concerns remain, especially regarding consumer protections.
Category: Health Insurance
New Covered California Sign-Ups Plummet
New enrollment in Covered California plans plunged by nearly a quarter this year compared with last year, posting a bigger drop than the federal health insurance exchange, healthcare.gov, which saw a 16 percent decrease. Officials largely blame the elimination of the tax penalty for people without insurance.
Medical University of South Carolina set $137 million price cap for 4-hospital deal with CHS
The deal is a milestone for the South Carolina public health system, as it is the first time MUSC has acquired other hospitals.
Addressing social determinants of health? Consider artificial intelligence and machine learning
The technology is still maturing, but already can be used to make sense of social determinants data — a must in modern care delivery.
University of Chicago Medicine study shows need to enhance patient rest, evaluate overnight interruptions for better patient experience
The program used electronic "nudges" to clinical staff to forgo overnight vitals and medications as well as clinical staff education on improving patient sleep.
Medicare Part D Enrollees with Serious Health Conditions Can Face Thousands of Dollars in Out-of-Pocket Costs Annually for Specialty Drugs
Despite Medicare’s protections, Part D enrollees with serious health conditions can face thousands of dollars in annual out-of-pocket costs for expensive specialty drugs, a new KFF anaylsis finds. The analysis draws on data from Medicare’s Plan Finder …
Physicians ask Senate Finance Committee to address kickbacks, other factors driving up drug costs
The AAPS recommended a number of specific solutions, including ending the safe harbor to the Medicare Anti-Kickback Statute.
The Out-of-Pocket Cost Burden for Specialty Drugs in Medicare Part D in 2019
Medicare Part D has helped to make prescription drugs more affordable for people with Medicare, yet many beneficiaries continue to face high out-of-pocket costs for their medications. Specialty tier drugs are a particular concern for Part D enrollees i…
Apple, Aetna collaborating on new Watch-driven wellness rewards program
The Attain program will combine members’ health record data with activity tracking to offer personalized goals, with rewards that include the Apple Watch itself.
What’s the lifetime cost of gender salary disparities? It adds up, Johns Hopkins says
Efforts to eliminate gender disparity have cut the gap in salaries that men and women earn at Johns Hopkins, but the differences make an impact.
