Category: NPR

Humana Inc. Overcharged Medicare Nearly $200 Million, Federal Audit Finds

If the report by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ office of inspector general is sustained, Humana Inc. could face a record penalty for overcharges in a Medicare Advantage plan.

OPINION: Doctors Should Be More Candid With Their Patients

As a doctor, I was eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine in December, but I also was pregnant, and there wasn’t yet much data to inform my decision. What I needed was a different kind of information.

Unrecognized Tribes Struggle Without Federal Aide During Pandemic

Many federally recognized tribes throughout the U.S. have had great success vaccinating their members against COVID-19. But those without federal recognition say they have a very different story.

‘It’s Not A Never Thing’ — White, Rural Southerners Hesitant To Get COVID Vaccine

A majority of white, rural conservatives in Tennessee are open to getting the vaccine at some point, but at least 45% won’t consider it. Rates in Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi are also lagging.

Ex-FDA Chief Sees ‘Struggle’ To Vaccinate More Than Half U.S. Population

Dr. Scott Gottlieb doesn’t expect enough demand for the vaccine much beyond 160 million Americans. But he says there may eventually be enough immunity to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

Once On The Brink Of Eradication, Syphilis is Raging Again

Syphilis cases in California have contributed to soaring national caseloads of sexually transmitted diseases. Experts point to the advent of dating apps, condom fatigue and an increase in meth.

Would You Use An App To Verify Your Vaccine Status? The Idea Is Here To Stay

From sporting arenas to colleges and cruise ships, many businesses are planning to ask customers to prove they’ve had their shot. Smart phone apps may be coming soon.

What’s In Biden’s $400 Billion Plan To Support Families’ Long-Term Health Needs

Long-term care options are expensive and often out of reach for elders and people with disabilities. Part of the president’s proposed infrastructure plan would help fund home-based health services.

Missouri Legislature Tries To Back Out Of Voter-Approved Medicaid Expansion

Missouri Republicans are trying to avoid funding an expansion that would give 275,000 people health insurance. Democrats argue they are pushing ideology over the will of the people.

In Arizona, Birth Workers Of Color Fight For More Access

As the state weighs legislation that could help expand access to doulas for expecting mothers, birth workers from minority communities worry new standards could leave them on the outside looking in.