Category: Kaiser Health News

After Idaho’s Strict Abortion Ban, OB-GYNs Stage a Quick Exodus

At least two Idaho hospitals are ending labor and delivery services, with one citing the state’s “legal and political climate” and noting that “recruiting replacements will be extraordinarily difficult” as doctors leave.

The Nation’s Health Secretary Has This Doctor on Call

Carolina Reyes, a physician who specializes in high-risk pregnancies, says providers and health systems have a role in tackling systemic racism. She’s also married to U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra.

Community Paramedics Don’t Wait for an Emergency to Visit Rural Patients at Home

Community paramedicine is expanding nationwide, including in rural areas, as health care providers, insurers, and state governments recognize its potential to improve health and save money.

Listen: How Are States Spending Money From the Opioid Settlements? It’s Not Easy to Know

KFF Health News senior correspondent Aneri Pattani appeared on NPR’s “1A” on May 1 to discuss issues related to how opioid settlement funds are being distributed.

For California Teen, Coverage of Early Psychosis Treatment Proved a Lifesaver

A Medi-Cal patient illustrates how early schizophrenia treatments can yield big benefits. Advocates want California to expand such services to more people living with severe mental illness, which they argue will not only improve lives but also save money over time.

Millions Are Stuck in Dental Deserts, With No Access to Oral Health Care

Vulnerable and marginalized communities are getting left behind in dental deserts, where patient volume exceeds provider capacity or too few dentists are willing to serve the uninsured or those on Medicaid.

Montana Considers Requiring Insurance to Cover Fertility Preservation for Cancer Patients

Young cancer patients must act quickly to preserve their sperm and eggs once they get their diagnosis, and many can’t afford the cost.

Readers and Tweeters Defend the Rights of Adults With Disabilities

KFF Health News gives readers a chance to comment on a recent batch of stories.

Some Private Companies Charge Hefty Fees to Help Veterans With Disability Claims

Unaccredited companies promise to help veterans file for disability benefits. But unlike the thousands of service representatives who have been vetted and approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide aid, these “medical consultants” or “coaches” operate with no restrictions on how much they can charge.

How to Increase Your Social Network as You Age

As your circle of close friends shrinks, there are ways to rebuild — but not replace — the social network you had when you were younger.