Category: Kaiser Health News

Why Many Nonprofit (Wink, Wink) Hospitals Are Rolling in Money

Legal maneuvering, industry lobbying, and lax IRS oversight leave lots of room for “operating surpluses.”

The CDC’s Test for Bird Flu Works, but It Has Issues

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention promises better tests are in the works, but the episode points to vulnerabilities in the country’s defense against emerging outbreaks.

Union With Labor Dispute of Its Own Threatens to Cut Off Workers’ Health Benefits

The National Education Association, the nation’s largest union, told striking workers that their health coverage would be cut off Aug. 1 absent a deal on a new contract. Tensions have mounted after staff disrupted the union’s convention, at which President Joe Biden had been scheduled to speak.

KFF Health News’ ‘What the Health?’: Harris in the Spotlight

As Vice President Kamala Harris appears poised to become the Democratic Party’s presidential nominee, health policy in general and reproductive health issues in particular are likely to have a higher profile. Harris has long been the Biden administration’s point person on abortion rights and reproductive health and was active on other health issues while serving […]

Montana Looks To Become Latest State To Boost Nonprofit Hospital Oversight

Montana’s proposal to increase oversight is part of a national trend by states to ensure nonprofit hospitals act as charitable organizations as they claim tax-exempt status. But the state has yet to set standards for how much the hospitals must do.

California Speeds Up Indoor Heat Protections Amid Sweltering Summer Weather

Indoor workers who toil in hot jobsites in California gain immediate protection from this summer’s extreme heat. The state’s worker safety chief announced finalized rules Wednesday, capping a years-long push by workers.

Oregon Senator Proposes Criminal Charges and Fines for Rogue Obamacare Agents

Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden introduced legislation intended to curb a growing problem in which consumers, without their consent, are enrolled in Affordable Care Act plans or their coverage is switched.

Louisiana Reclassifies Drugs Used in Abortions as Controlled Dangerous Substances

Louisiana lawmakers have added two drugs commonly used in pregnancy and reproductive health care to the state’s list of controlled dangerous substances, a move that has alarmed doctors in the state.

World-Famous Wall Drug Isn’t Immune From Challenges Facing Rural Pharmacies

Even as part of a popular South Dakota tourist attraction, an independent pharmacy serving locals, remote ranchers, and sightseers struggles with staffing and insurer payments.

California Forges Ahead With Social Media Rules Despite Legal Barriers

State lawmakers are advancing two bills aimed at protecting children from the harms of social media, part of a nationwide wave of efforts to address the issue. Yet the bills’ proponents face hurdles in finding an approach that can survive legal challenges from the tech industry.