Category: NPR

A New Way Of Paying For Maternity Care Aims To Reduce C-Sections

Instead of paying doctors piecemeal for prenatal appointments and delivery of the baby, some insurers now offer medical practices one lump sum to cover it all.

How An ‘International Price Index’ Might Help Reduce Drug Prices

Drugmakers hate the idea. But Nancy Pelosi and Donald Trump both say pegging the prices of U.S. medicine to what people elsewhere pay could save U.S. patients a bundle. Here’s how an “IPI” might work.

The Real Bachelor Party Hangover: A $12,460 ER Bill

The high ER charge for treating one Colorado groom’s hangover the day before his wedding illustrates how emergency room bills have become major headaches for many Americans.

As Texas Cracks Down On Abortion, Austin Votes To Help Women Defray Costs

The Austin City Council is defying Texas state legislators, setting aside $150,000 in city funds to help local women who seek abortions pay for attendant costs, such as transportation or child care.

Man Tells Bernie Sanders He Will Kill Himself Because Of Medical Debt

Presidential candidate Bernie Sanders, in a Nevada campaign stop, pushed back on criticism of his “Medicare For All” plan.

Understanding Surprise Medical Bills Legislation

There’s legislation in Congress to curb surprise medical billing. NPR’s Lulu Garcia-Navarro talks with Emmarie Huetteman of Kaiser Health News.

Democratic Debate Exposes Deep Divides Among Candidates Over Health Care

A large chunk of Thursday’s Democratic primary debate featured policy brawls about health care policy — including costs, coverage and worries about whether the party is growing too extreme.

How To Teach Future Doctors About Pain In The Midst Of The Opioid Crisis

Around 20% of U.S. adults live with chronic pain. Medical schools traditionally haven’t dedicated much time to teaching about pain and pain control, but one top school now has a mandatory course.

Telepsychiatry Helps Recruitment And Patient Care In Rural Areas

A telemedicine initiative at Meridian Health Services is making it possible to offer psychiatric care to more patients in remote areas. It’s also helping recruit doctors in a tight labor market.

Doctors Say Federal Rules On Discussing Abortions Inhibit Relationships With Patients

Many clinics that provide family planning services still rely on Title X funding. Their doctors worry about what they can say to patients about abortion under new rules.