Category: Kaiser Health News

How the Thyroid Gland Mystifies Doctors and Patients

This illustrated report has been adapted from a KFF Health News article, “Among Hurdles for Autoimmune Disease Patients: Diagnosis, Costs, Inattentive Care” by Andy Miller, with artwork by Oona Tempest.

Progressive and Anti-Abortion? New Group Plays Fast and Loose to Make Points

Progressive Anti-Abortion Uprising, which operates mostly in the nation’s capital, is part of a confrontational anti-abortion movement that embraces all types of media — graffiti, social media, and livestreams — to communicate a smashmouth message.

Many Autoimmune Disease Patients Struggle With Diagnosis, Costs, Inattentive Care

Despite the prevalence of autoimmune conditions, like the thyroid disease Hashimoto’s, sometimes finding help can prove frustrating as well as expensive. There are often no definitive diagnostic tests, so patients may rack up big bills as they search for confirmation of their condition and for treatment options.

Backlash to Affirmative Action Hits Pioneering Maternal Health Program for Black Women

A San Francisco program offers a $1,000-a-month stipend for pregnant Black and Pacific Islander women, part of an effort to address severe racial disparities in maternal health. But conservative groups have sued to shut down the Abundant Birth Project, part of a national backlash against affirmative action in health care.

What Would a DeSantis Presidency Look Like for Health Care?

Ron DeSantis’ record as Florida governor provides some clues to how he would change the health care landscape if elected president. In his five years as governor, DeSantis has promoted stricter abortion rules and emphasized individual freedom over the benefits of public health.

1 in 3 People Dropped by Utah Medicaid Left Uninsured, a ‘Concerning’ Sign for Nation

About a third of the 130,000 people Utah has dropped from Medicaid this year say they now lack health insurance. It’s a glimpse into the fate of people caught up in Medicaid’s “unwinding.”

A Guide to Long-Term Care Insurance

Deciding when, or whether, to buy long-term care insurance can be complex. Here’s what to know.

From Hospital to Hospitality: Spin Doctors Brand Getting Sick as an Adventure. It’s Not.

At $1,000 a night for a private room, medical centers are offering fancy food and casting health care as a “journey.” Instead of creature comforts, how about helping us feel better?

Anti-Abortion Groups Shrug Off Election Losses, Look to Courts, Statehouses for Path Forward

Anti-abortion groups have lost seven consecutive elections on state ballot measures about abortion. They say they’re unfazed and plan to keep focusing on lawmakers and courts to notch wins.

Why Long-Term Care Insurance Falls Short for So Many 

The private insurance market has proved wildly inadequate in providing financial security for millions of older Americans, in part by underestimating how many policyholders would use their coverage.