Hybrid care improves access to primary care in rural Ontario

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20251218/Hybrid-care-improves-access-to-primary-care-in-rural-Ontario.aspx

Financial strain and food insecurity drive accelerated cardiac aging

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20251218/Financial-strain-and-food-insecurity-drive-accelerated-cardiac-aging.aspx

A Snapshot of Sources of Coverage Among Medicare Beneficiaries Authors: Nancy Ochieng, Juliette Cubanski, and Tricia Neuman

A Snapshot of Sources of Coverage Among Medicare Beneficiaries Most in Traditional Medicare Have Supplemental Coverage that Helps Cover Medicare Cost Sharing but More Than Three Million Don’t Authors: Nancy Ochieng, Juliette Cubanski, and Tricia Neuman Published: Dec 19, 2025 https://www.kff.org/medicare/a-snapshot-of-sources-of-coverage-among-medicare-beneficiaries/

In Their Own Words: ACA Marketplace Enrollees Explain How Higher Premium Payments Will Affect Them

https://www.kff.org/quick-take/in-their-own-words-aca-marketplace-enrollees-explain-how-higher-premium-payments-will-affect-them/

Do We Want to Outsource U.S. Vaccine Policy to Denmark?

https://www.kff.org/quick-take/do-we-want-to-outsource-u-s-vaccine-policy-to-denmark/

Health and Health Care for American Indian or Alaska Native People: Key Issues Authors: Latoya Hill, Samantha Artiga, and Nambi Ndugga Published: Dec 19, 2025

https://www.kff.org/racial-equity-and-health-policy/health-and-health-care-for-american-indian-or-alaska-native-people-key-issues/

Key Data on Health and Health Care for American Indian or Alaska Native People Authors: Nambi Ndugga, Latoya Hill, Alisha Rao, and Samantha Artiga Published: Dec 19, 2025

https://www.kff.org/racial-equity-and-health-policy/key-data-on-health-and-health-care-for-american-indian-or-alaska-native-people/

Guns Marketed for Personal Safety Fuel Public Health Crisis in Black Communities By Fred Clasen-Kelly and Daniel Chang December 19, 2025

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/guns-marketing-safety-protection-hunting-diversity-profit-black-minority-communities/

Scorpion Peppers Caused Him ‘Crippling’ Pain. Two Years Later, the ER Bill Stung Him Again. By Elisabeth Rosenthal December 19, 2025

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/scorpion-peppers-spicy-food-colorado-bill-of-the-month-december-2025/

Judge in Nursing Home Bankruptcy Case Gives Families Fresh Hope of Compensation for Injuries, Deaths By Jordan Rau December 19, 2025

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/nursing-homes-genesis-bankruptcy-judge-ruling-delayed-settlement-payments/

Journalists Zero In on ‘Certificate of Need’ Laws and Turbulent Obamacare Enrollment Season December 20, 2025

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/on-air-december-20-2025-obamacare-subsidies-certificate-of-need-con/

Viewpoints: Public Health Is Broken — Here’s How to Fix It; Self-Testing For Cervical Cancer Empowers Women

https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/viewpoints-public-health-is-broken-heres-how-to-fix-it-self-testing-for-cervical-cancer-empowers-women/

Longer Looks: Interesting Reads You Might Have Missed

Longer Looks: Interesting Reads You Might Have Missed Each week, KFF Health News finds longer stories for you to enjoy. Today's selections are on bioethics, surrogacy, football helmets, obesity, and California's CARE Court. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/longer-looks-interesting-reads-you-might-have-missed-245/

Minnesota Fraud Inquiry Extends To 14 Medicaid-Funded Social Programs

Minnesota Fraud Inquiry Extends To 14 Medicaid-Funded Social Programs Previously, federal prosecutors had been looking into only three safety net programs run by state agencies. Other news comes from Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, Iowa, Wyoming, Rhode Island, Hawaii, and Pennsylvania. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/minnesota-fraud-inquiry-extends-to-14-medicaid-funded-social-programs/

California Hospital To Shutter Pediatric Unit, Creating Care Desert For Kids

California Hospital To Shutter Pediatric Unit, Creating Care Desert For Kids Providence Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital will stop admitting patients on March 27. Other health industry news is about remote patient monitoring, no deal in the Virtua Health-ChristianaCare merger, a nursing home bankruptcy, and more. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/california-hospital-to-shutter-pediatric-unit-creating-care-desert-for-kids/

Wildfire Fighters Who Develop Cancer Eligible For One-Time $450,000 Payout

Wildfire Fighters Who Develop Cancer Eligible For One-Time $450,000 Payout The law signed by President Trump on Thursday also provides college tuition for their family if they die or become debilitated from a smoke-related cancer. Plus: The "warrior dividend" announced for troops will be paid out of the military housing stipend already approved by Congress. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/wildfire-fighters-who-develop-cancer-eligible-for-one-time-450000-payout/

ACA Subsidies, Funding Bill Punted To Next Year As Congress Takes A Break

ACA Subsidies, Funding Bill Punted To Next Year As Congress Takes A Break The enhanced tax credits that millions of Americans rely on to pay for health insurance on the Obamacare marketplace will expire Dec. 31, meaning premiums could soar. When Congress meets again, it'll have mere weeks to pass funding legislation to avoid another government shutdown. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/aca-subsidies-funding-bill-punted-to-next-year-as-congress-takes-a-break/

CMS’ Attempt To Strip Hospital Funds Over Trans Care Could Take A While

CMS’ Attempt To Strip Hospital Funds Over Trans Care Could Take A While On Thursday, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services unveiled two rules to withhold federal funds from facilities that provide gender-affirming care for trans minors, but the public will have 60 days to comment on the proposals. With a large number of comments expected, it could take months or even a year to finalize the rules, one attorney told STAT. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/cms-attempt-to-strip-hospital-funds-over-trans-care-could-take-a-while/

With Cannabis Reclassification, CBD Will Be Covered For Medicare Patients

With Cannabis Reclassification, CBD Will Be Covered For Medicare Patients President Donald Trump's executive order effectively speeds up the process to reclassify marijuana as a Schedule III substance, a move that opens up access to Americans who want it and for researchers studying its medical use. Marijuana is still illegal under federal law. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/with-cannabis-reclassification-cbd-will-be-covered-for-medicare-patients/

Inside the FDA’s Vaccine Uproar By Céline Gounder December 19, 2025

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/vaccine-uproar-fda-former-commissioners-vinay-prasad-memo-worldview/

Biotech’s year in review ++

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/18/readout-loud-podcast-biotech-venture-capital-obesity-coverage/ By Allison DeAngelis, Elaine Chen, and Adam FeuersteinDec. 18, 2025 In major effort to end gender-affirming care, Trump administration takes aim at hospitals Proposed rules threaten financial consequences for clinics providing such care to trans minors https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/18/transgender-care-hospitals-trump-cms-rules/ By Theresa Gaffney, Daniel Payne, and Chelsea CirruzzoDec. 18, 2025

NIH funding rates for early-career researchers plunged in 2025, new data show Change in how grants are paid undercut support for young scientists, an agency priority

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/18/nih-early-career-researchers-grant-success-rate-falls/ By Anil Oza and Jonathan WosenDec. 18, 2025

Trump’s marijuana reclassification could boost research, broaden access President weighs in on debate between hard-liners and those who want more research on drug’s medical uses

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/18/trump-reclassifies-marijuana-to-boost-research-and-access/ By Lev FacherDec. 18, 2025 Addiction Reporter

Facing federal hostility, supervised consumption site points to 1,900 overdose reversals New York officials show support for OnPoint even as Trump administration criticizes harm reduction

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/18/on-point-nyc-drug-consumption-site-trump-defiance/ By Lev FacherDec. 18, 2025 Addiction Reporter

5 lessons for U.S. research funding from the AIDS crisis Medicine can’t wait for Washington

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/19/aids-research-federal-funding-cuts-lessons/ By Robert B. ShpinerDec. 19, 2025 Shpiner is a clinical professor of medicine (pulmonary and critical care) at the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine.

U.K.’s state-owned investment bank shows up in the U.S., eager to spend on biotech British Business Bank has billions to put into life sciences VC firms and startups, other key sectors

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/19/uk-biotech-life-sciences-investment/ By Allison DeAngelisDec. 19, 2025 Biotech Startups and Venture Capital Reporter

I’m the former head of Pfizer R&D. I’m very worried about biopharma’s future The New York Times once called me ‘Dr. Optimistic.’ I’m not so optimistic now

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/19/pharmaceutical-industry-future-rfk-jr-trump/ By John L. LaMattinaDec. 19, 2025 LaMattina is the former president of Pfizer Global R&D and is currently a senior director at PureTech Health.

CDC awards grant to controversial Danish researchers with ties to top FDA official Experts have questioned the ethics and utility of study on the hepatitis B vaccine birth dose

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/18/cdc-grant-controversial-researchers-ties-to-tracy-beth-hoeg/ By Lizzy Lawrence and Helen BranswellDec. 18, 2025

FDA voucher program has become vehicle for political interference in drug review decisions, staffers say Initiative is seen as having fast-tracked process at expense of career scientists’ expertise

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/19/fda-voucher-program-political-interference/ By Lizzy LawrenceDec. 19, 2025 FDA Reporter

FDA’s New Medical Gas Guidance Is No Laughing Matter December 19, 2025 By John W.M. Claud & Mark I. Schwartz —

https://www.thefdalawblog.com/2025/12/fdas-new-medical-gas-guidance-is-no-laughing-matter/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=fdas-new-medical-gas-guidance-is-no-laughing-matter

AI morality? Don’t hold your breath De Kai | MIT Press Reader | December 18, 2025 +++++ +++++

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2025/12/18/ai-morality-dont-hold-your-breath/ New U.S. cancer policy head falsely believes COVID vaccines ‘turbocharge’ cancer and horse dewormer ivermectin is a miracle drug David Gilbert | Wired https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2025/12/18/new-u-s-cancer-policy-head-falsely-believes-covid-vaccines-turbocharge-cancer-and-horse-dewormer-ivermectin-is-a-miracle-drug/ Hype adjustment: Probiotic supplements don’t help much to improve your gut function and overall health, and are a waste of money Lydia Denworth | Scientific American https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2025/12/18/hype-adjustment-probiotic-supplements-dont-help-much-to-improve-your-gut-function-and-overall-health-and-are-a-waste-of-money/ Alert to Donald Trump: Tanning bed users at higher risk for skin cancer Maria Godoy | NPR https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2025/12/17/alert-to-donald-trump-tanning-bed-users-at-higher-risk-for-skin-cancer/ What diseases lurk in your DNA? AI has many new answers Mount Sinai https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2025/12/17/what-diseases-lurk-in-your-dna-ai-has-many-new-answers/ Europe’s veggie burger wars: Farmer backlash against plant-based labeling restrictions stall RTE https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2025/12/18/europes-veggie-burger-wars-farmer-backlash-against-plant-based-labeling-restrictions-stall/ Corporate control, ecological challenges and food safety: Challenges await expansion of the gene-editing crop revolution Bioengineer https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2025/12/18/corporate-control-ecological-challenges-and-food-safety-challenges-await-expansion-of-the-gene-editing-crop-revolution/ The expanding role of robotics in agriculture … on Earth and in space Alice Carnevali | inkl https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2025/12/17/the-expanding-role-of-robotics-in-agriculture-on-earth-and-in-space/ Bitter dark chocolate appears to slow the aging process Tibi Puiu | ZME Science https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2025/12/17/bitter-dark-chocolate-appears-to-slow-the-aging-process/ Fungus ‘meat’? Yes, it could be a less expensive, environmentally sustainable —and tasty— chicken substitute Vishwam Sankaran | inkl https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2025/12/16/fungus-meat-yes-it-could-be-a-less-expensive-environmentally-sustainable-and-tasty-chicken-substitute/

Viewpoint: Killing children—The RFK, Jr.-CDC-Trump administration’s evidence-less plan to roll back mandatory hepatitis birth dosing will skyrocket cases and lead to a slew of preventable diseases Jake Scott | December 18, 2025

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2025/12/18/viewpoint-killing-children-the-rfk-jr-cdc-trump-administrations-evidence-less-plan-to-roll-back-mandatory-hepatitis-birth-dosing-will-skyrocket-cases-and-lead-to-a-slew-of-preventable-dis/?mc_cid=1e6bd9053c&mc_eid=b73600b7ac

ACIP Vote Drives Online Engagement About Hepatitis B Vaccine, And Posts Claim a VAERS “Cover-Up” of COVID-19 Vaccine Deaths Irving Washington , Hagere Yilma , and Joel Luther

https://www.kff.org/health-information-trust/acip-vote-drives-online-engagement-about-hepatitis-b-vaccine-and-posts-claim-a-vaers-cover-up-of-covid-19-vaccine-deaths/ Nearly two weeks after a CDC vaccine advisory panel voted to end the universal recommendation that newborns be vaccinated for hepatitis B, online conversations about childhood vaccination schedules and parental choice have continued at elevated levels, with many prominent accounts celebrating the decision as a victory for medical freedom. Meanwhile, narratives about an FDA memo claiming COVID-19 vaccines caused 10 pediatric deaths have evolved from focusing on the unverified claims to framing the announcement as evidence of a broader government “cover-up,” as some have characterized it as vindication for those previously “silenced” for raising vaccine safety concerns.

There is No Drop-Dead Date for an ACA Tax Credit Extension, But Coverage Losses Will Mount as the Clock Ticks

https://www.kff.org/quick-take/there-is-no-drop-dead-date-for-an-aca-tax-credit-extension-but-coverage-losses-will-mount-as-the-clock-ticks/

Morning Briefing: Today's News Summaries Thursday, Dec 18 2025 UPDATED 9:35 AM ++++++ ++

Morning Briefing: Today's News Summaries Thursday, Dec 18 2025 UPDATED 9:35 AM House OKs GOP Health Care Bill Without Extending ACA Subsidies House OKs GOP Health Care Bill Without Extending ACA Subsidies The vote was 216-211, but four Republicans have joined with Democrats in trying to force a vote on an extension of the ACA subsidies. Meanwhile, Affordable Care Act exchanges brace for chaos https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/house-oks-gop-health-care-bill-without-extending-aca-subsidies/ Anti-Transgender Bill Passes House; RFK Jr. Could Announce Restrictions Anti-Transgender Bill Passes House; RFK Jr. Could Announce Restrictions Meanwhile in Texas, the Department of Public Safety is amassing a list of transgender Texans using data from their driver's licenses, and the state has opened a public tip line designed to help enforce the state’s “bathroom bill." https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/anti-transgender-bill-passes-house-rfk-jr-could-announce-restrictions/ HHS Rescinds Millions In Grants Given To American Academy Of Pediatrics HHS Rescinds Millions In Grants Given To American Academy Of Pediatrics The Trump administration said it is clawing back grants that “no longer align with the department’s mission or priorities.” The academy has been critical of how the Department of Health and Human Services under Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has approached vaccine policy. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/hhs-rescinds-millions-in-grants-given-to-american-academy-of-pediatrics/ Nebraska Medicaid Work Requirements Will Start May 1, Ahead Of Schedule Nebraska Medicaid Work Requirements Will Start May 1, Ahead Of Schedule The Cornhusker State will be the first to fall in line with the Trump administration's law that mandates 80 hours of work or community service each month, or part-time school enrollment for people 19 to 64 who have Medicaid coverage. States have until 2027 to implement that policy https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/nebraska-medicaid-work-requirements-will-start-may-1-ahead-of-schedule/ NEJM Evidence, CIDRAP Issue First 'Public Health Alerts' To Fill Data Gaps NEJM Evidence, CIDRAP Issue First ‘Public Health Alerts’ To Fill Data Gaps The joint report discussed mpox and H3N2 influenza. The collaboration aims to provide "timely, evidence-based alerts that can help local and state health leaders act quickly to protect the health of people in their communities,” said Michael Osterholm, director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP) at the University of Minnesota. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/nejm-evidence-cidrap-issue-first-public-health-alerts-to-fill-data-gaps/ Study Shows High-Fat Cheese, Cream May Help Lower Dementia Risk Study Shows High-Fat Cheese, Cream May Help Lower Dementia Risk The researchers note that no difference was seen for low-fat milk products, or whole milk, and that what the cows eat is also important. Other lifestyle and health news looks at warning signs of dementia; blood tests for Alzheimer's; "holiday heart syndrome;" and more. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/study-shows-high-fat-cheese-cream-may-help-lower-dementia-risk/ Research Roundup: The Latest Science, Discoveries, And Breakthroughs Each week, KFF Health News compiles a selection of health policy studies and briefs. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/research-roundup-the-latest-science-discoveries-and-breakthroughs-49/ Viewpoints: States Are Vital To Protecting Vaccine Access; Informed Debate With MAHA Mavens Is Futile https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/viewpoints-states-are-vital-to-protecting-vaccine-access-informed-debate-with-maha-mavens-is-futile/

Oregon Hospital Races To Build a Tsunami Shelter as FEMA Fights To Cut Its Funding By Hannah Norman and Daniel Chang December 17, 2025

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/tsunami-shelter-oregon-hospital-fema-funding-cut-lawsuit/

Worried About Health Insurance Costs? There May Be Cheaper Options — But With Trade-Offs By Julie Appleby December 18, 2025

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/aca-obamacare-cheaper-health-insurance-plans-premiums-short-term-indemnity/

Washington’s Homeless Hide in Plain Sight, Growing Sicker and Costing Taxpayers More By Angela Hart December 18, 2025

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/washington-dc-homelessness-crackdown-hiding-plain-sight-street-medicine/

Call 911 or Risk Losing the Baby? Raids Force Some Immigrants To Avoid Care By Halle Parker, Verite News December 18, 2025

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/immigration-deportation-risk-immigrants-avoid-health-care-new-orleans-mississippi/

Securing Smart Speakers for Home Health Care: NIST Offers New Guidelines December 17, 2025

https://www.nist.gov/news-events/news/2025/12/securing-smart-speakers-home-health-care-nist-offers-new-guidelines Smart speakers are commonly used to answer questions, control thermostats and play music. Now consumers are calling on them for home health care — to talk to a provider, refill a prescription or schedule an appointment. Telehealth can benefit patients, but the threats are numerous as well: An attacker could alter a prescription, steal confidential medical data or connect the patient to an impostor. To reduce the cybersecurity risks these interactions carry, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has released guidelines that can help protect patients and providers alike.

Biotech, growing up, is turning profitable Plus: A chat with Jared Holz, Mizuho’s health care market strategist By Adam FeuersteinDec. 18, 2025 Senior Writer, Biotech

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/18/biotech-growing-up-is-turning-profitable/ By Adam FeuersteinDec. 18, 2025 Senior Writer, Biotech House passes health care bill to boost access to workplace insurance GOP bill doesn’t address expiring ACA subsidies, but is aimed at curbing insurance costs By John WilkersonDec. 17, 2025 Washington Correspondent https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/17/house-passes-health-care-bill-workplace-insurance/ Meta is urged by state attorneys general to boost enforcement of weight loss drug advertising State AGs claim a ‘surge of misleading’ promotions have flooded Instagram and Facebook https://www.statnews.com/pharmalot/2025/12/17/meta-facebook-instagram-weight-obesity-drugs-ads/ By Ed SilvermanDec. 17, 2025 Pharmalot Columnist, Senior Writer FDA approves brain tumor warning on Depo-Provera label as court battle grows over side effects ‘This is a game changer,’ said one attorney about the impact on Pfizer’s legal arguments https://www.statnews.com/pharmalot/2025/12/17/fda-pfizer-contraception-cancer-preemption-depoprovera/ By Ed SilvermanDec. 17, 2025 Pharmalot Columnist, Senior Writer More drugmakers set to sign pricing deals with Trump on Friday Terms of past deals haven’t been disclosed, leaving their impact uncertain https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/17/pharma-companies-to-announce-trump-drug-pricing-deals-friday/ By Daniel PayneDec. 17, 2025 Washington Correspondent Read American Science, Shattered An eight-decade partnership between universities and the federal government made U.S. science preeminent. https://www.statnews.com/american-science-shattered/

Sickle-cell disease associated with early onset of clonal hematopoiesis, a precancerous condition

https://www.statnews.com/sponsor/2025/12/15/sickle-cell-disease-associated-with-early-onset-of-clonal-hematopoiesis-a-precancerous-condition/ The discovery, led by researchers at Dana-Farber, could pave the way for interventions to reduce the risk of blood cancers among people with sickle-cell disease.

Hospitals owned by real estate investors more likely to close or go bankrupt New research probes what happens when health care systems sell their land to financial firms

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/18/hospitals-acquired-reits-more-likely-close-go-bankrupt/ By Tara BannowDec. 18, 2025 Hospitals and Insurance Reporter

New York Giants team doctor: Clinics offering ‘miracle injections,’ ‘next generation cell therapies’ are selling false hope We must separate the science from the sales pitch in regenerative medicine

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/18/regenerative-medicine-stem-cells-miracles-giants/ By Scott RodeoDec. 18, 2025 Rodeo is an attending surgeon and vice chair of orthopedic research at the Hospital for Special Surgery and head team physician for the New York Giants.

What I’ve learned by mapping the impacts of NIH cuts The effects have been widespread but could have been worse — and may yet be

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/18/nih-cuts-impacts-future-analysis/ By Joshua S. WeitzDec. 18, 2025 Weitz is professor of biology and Clark leadership chair in data analytics at the University of Maryland and the co-founder of SCIMaP.

Employers drop coverage for weight loss drugs as pharma’s direct-to-consumer programs grow Prices for Wegovy, Zepbound, touted as discounts, will remain unaffordable for many workers

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/18/weight-loss-drugs-wegovy-zepbound-health-plans/ By Elaine ChenDec. 18, 2025 National Biotech Reporter

As dangerous eugenic ideas spread, NIH falls silent Dismantling of communications teams muffles public education efforts By Megan Molteni and Anil OzaDec. 18, 2025

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/18/trump-nih-cuts-nhgri-special-report-american-science-shattered/

House passes bill to ban gender-affirming care for young people The bill would prohibit doctors from providing gender-affirming care to minors By Theresa GaffneyDec. 17, 2025 Morning Rounds Writer and Reporter

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/17/house-vote-bills-care-for-transgender-young-people-medicaid/?utm_campaign=morning_rounds&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_Gqw6qJQZHAo_lRPz4Gzzqg6Po4tbLCY_QumvVE0qE_p86swTkMB14A29b3VQPBDsnZ0cinCvhj_EH7KiXDLER8XNFMg&_hsmi=395009073&utm_content=395009073&utm_source=hs_email

Understanding Diagnostic Safety Events and Diagnostic Error

https://qualityindicators.ahrq.gov/resources/diagnostic_excellence AHRQ is pleased to announce the release of a new resource to support Diagnostic Excellence measurement efforts. This tool is designed to help hospital systems, researchers, and other users identify potential missed opportunities for diagnosis at a population level. The Diagnostic Excellence resource introduces a standardized approach to examining diagnostic processes and aligns with AHRQ’s broader goal to improve patient safety. It includes the Symptom–Disease Pair Analysis (SPADE) Python Tool and supporting technical specifications, which allow users to calculate rates of potentially missed diagnoses of stroke and acute myocardial infarction using linked emergency department and inpatient claims data. Highlights of the SPADE Python Tool: Calculates rates of potential missed diagnosis of stroke and acute myocardial infarction using a look-forward or look-back approach. Applies the Symptom–Disease Pair Analysis (SPADE) methodology to claims data that link emergency department and inpatient data. Does not require access to electronic health records data. Helps identify frequency and specific cases in which symptom–disease pairs occurred for further analysis. The Diagnostic Excellence SPADE Tool is now available on the AHRQ Quality Indicators website: https://qualityindicators.ahrq.gov/resources/diagnostic_excellence. Feedback on these tools is welcome at QIsupport@ahrq.hhs.gov. Sincerely,

Making Health Tech Great Again

https://www.cms.gov/priorities/health-technology-ecosystem/overview?utm_source=SAMHSA&utm_campaign=2cbf34abc2-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2025_12_17_08_16&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_ee1c4b138c-2cbf34abc2-167840245 CMS Seeks Participants in Health Technology Ecosystem Initiative Payers, Providers and States serving behavioral health patients can sign up to participate The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is seeking health providers, payers, patient-facing application and electronic health record (EHR) developers, and states to join its effort to enhance interoperability and collaboration within the health care sector. Patients, caregivers, and organizations also have opportunities to provide input into this effort. Those interested and eligible can review the category descriptions and sign up through a participation form. Early adopters include EHR and artificial intelligence assistant developers, payers, health systems and providers, and data networks. Organizations and individuals that cannot participate directly still may be able to join as patients, caregivers, or as Friends of the Ecosystem who “work alongside the pledgees to provide support, feedback, and/or technology that assists pledgees in successfully delivering on their pledge.”

Introducing the CAHPS End-of-Life Care Survey Webcast January 15, 2026 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM EST

https://cma.ahrq.gov/cma/welcome.jsp?code=CAHPS_End_of_Life_Care_Survey Please note that this webcast has been rescheduled from its original date of October 16, 2025. Registrations from those who signed up previously are still valid and active. Register for this free, one-hour webcast introducing AHRQ’s new Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS®) End-of-Life Care Survey. Join leading experts as they discuss why the survey was developed, how it was tested, and best practices for successful implementation. Kaiser Permanente will share lessons learned from field testing the survey in their end-of-life care programs. Speakers: Jonathan Bakdash, Ph.D., Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Rebecca Anhang-Price, Ph.D., RAND Melissa Bradley, RAND Susan Wang, MD, Kaiser Permanente Stephanie Fry, CPXP, (Moderator), Westat For questions, please contact the CAHPS User Network at cahps1@westat.com or 1-800-492-9261.

A Look at Nursing Facility Characteristics in 2025 Authors: Priya Chidambaram and Alice Burns Published: Dec 17, 2025

https://www.kff.org/medicaid/a-look-at-nursing-facility-characteristics/

Morning Briefing: Today's News Summaries Wednesday, Dec 17 2025 UPDATED 9:09 AM ++++++ +

Morning Briefing: Today's News Summaries Wednesday, Dec 17 2025 UPDATED 9:09 AM CDC Makes It Official, Drops Hep B Shot Recommendation For Newborns CDC Makes It Official, Drops Hep B Shot Recommendation For Newborns Babies whose mothers test positive for the virus, or whose status is unknown, should still get the birth dose, the CDC says, but others may delay the first shot until the child is at least 2 months old. However, doctors and hospital systems are likely to continue following the decades-old policy. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/cdc-makes-it-official-drops-newborn-hepatitis-b-vaccine-recommendation/ House To Vote On Gender-Affirming Care For Kids, Including Penalties House To Vote On Gender-Affirming Care For Kids, Including Penalties The two bills up for a vote include one that would criminalize providing certain gender-affirming procedures or medications, and one that would prohibit Medicaid funding for gender-affirming care, Axios reports. Also: House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) blocks a vote on ACA subsidies. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/house-to-vote-on-gender-affirming-care-for-kids-including-penalties/ Dismantling Of USAID In Bangladesh Has Led To Surge In Child Prostitution Dismantling Of USAID In Bangladesh Has Led To Surge In Child Prostitution The sudden funding cuts in multiple countries forced the closure of thousands of schools and child protection programs. Without them, AP reported, many children as young as 10 have been forced into unwanted marriages and manual labor, and girls as young as 12 have been forced into prostitution. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/dismantling-of-usaid-in-bangladesh-has-led-to-surge-in-child-prostitution/ FDA Will Put Brain Tumor Warning On Depo-Provera Birth Control Shot FDA Will Put Brain Tumor Warning On Depo-Provera Birth Control Shot Pfizer, which makes the shot, is fighting a lawsuit from more than 1,000 women who claim the company knew about the risk of meningiomas but failed to warn patients. Meanwhile, former Vice President Mike Pence's organization Advancing American Freedom has called for HHS Secretary RFK Jr.'s removal from office over his refusal to review the abortion pill mifepristone. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/fda-will-put-brain-tumor-warning-on-depo-provera-birth-control-shot/ Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Will Pay $15M To Settle Case Over Flawed Data Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Will Pay $15M To Settle Case Over Flawed Data Dana-Farber has admitted that scientists, working under inadequate supervision, used federal grant money to conduct research that led to papers with duplicated or manipulated images, Stat reported. But the agreement doesn't include an admission of intentional fraud, Stat noted. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/dana-farber-cancer-institute-will-pay-15m-to-settle-case-over-flawed-data/ NY Health System, Union Strike Deal To Bypass Insurers, Reduce Red Tape NY Health System, Union Strike Deal To Bypass Insurers, Reduce Red Tape Members of the 32BJ Health Fund will receive more favorable pricing from the nonprofit Northwell Health system, which will become the preferred provider. This strategy bypasses an insurer's role in administering the plan. Plus, the latest on the Brown University shooting. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/ny-health-system-union-strike-deal-to-bypass-insurers-reduce-red-tape/ Viewpoints: Don’t Abandon GLP-1 Research For Alzheimer’s; Gonorrhea Drug Is Special For Several Reasons https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/viewpoints-dont-abandon-glp-1-research-for-alzheimers-gonorrhea-drug-is-special-for-several-reasons/

Oregon Hospital Races To Build a Tsunami Shelter as FEMA Fights To Cut Its Funding By Hannah Norman and Daniel Chang December 17, 2025

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/tsunami-shelter-oregon-hospital-fema-funding-cut-lawsuit/

In the Vast Expanses of Indian Country, Broadband Gaps Create Health Gaps, Too By Sarah Jane Tribble December 17, 2025

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/internet-broadband-digital-divide-tribal-health-disparities/

American Health Information Management Association AHIMA25 Conference (Recordings) On Demand until February 13, 2026 | 20.00+ CE credit

https://reg.ahimaevents.ahima.org/flow/ahima/ahima/landingpage/page/ahima25virtual

American Academy of Physician Associates We Are Family (Medicine) January 31, 2026, to February 2, 2026, Las Vegas, NV | 37.00 CME credits

https://www.aapa.org/es/events/we-are-family-medicine/

Lessons for the SUD Field from Chronic Care Medicine

https://www.train.org/main/course/1103897/details Lessons for the Substance Use Disorder Field from Chronic Care Medicine Veterans Health Administration On-Demand Opportunity Uncover what mainstream medicine’s treatment of chronic illness can teach us about evaluating and treating substance use disorders and how these insights can help strengthen communication between substance use disorder clinicians and the rest of the healthcare team.

Making Warm Handoffs the Norm in Primary Care Behavioral Health

https://www.dhaj7-cepo.com/content/making-warm-handoffs-norm-primary-care-behavioral-health-0?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=december2025 Making Warm Handoffs the Norm in Primary Care Behavioral Health Available On Demand (CAC required) Learn what strategies you can use as a behavioral health consultant to facilitate warm patient handoffs from primary care managers.

The Midlife Transition RX Hormone Replacement Therapy and Specialty Considerations for Providers and Clinicians in Women’s Health and Female Readiness January 29, 2026

https://www.dhaj7-cepo.com/content/midlife-transition?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=december2025 The Midlife Transition RX Hormone Replacement Therapy and Specialty Considerations for Providers and Clinicians in Women’s Health and Female Readiness Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. ET This all-day, virtual event unpacks the science of perimenopause and menopause through a range of topics, including insights from the Women’s Health Initiative long-term study, the FDA decision to remove black box warnings on estrogen products for hormone replacement therapy, and hormone replacement therapy’s safety, benefits, and prescribing tools.

Draft NIST Guidelines Rethink Cybersecurity for the AI Era December 16, 2025

https://www.nist.gov/news-events/news/2025/12/draft-nist-guidelines-rethink-cybersecurity-ai-era Artificial intelligence (AI) is impacting many organizations’ activities, and cybersecurity is no exception. For anyone interested in the opportunities and risks at the intersection of cybersecurity and AI, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has released a preliminary draft of its Cyber AI Profile. The publication, whose full title is the Cybersecurity Framework Profile for Artificial Intelligence (NISTIR 8596), offers guidelines for using the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF 2.0) to accelerate the secure adoption of AI. The profile helps organizations think about how to strategically adopt AI while addressing emerging cybersecurity risks that stem from AI’s rapid advance.

AHRQ in the Professional Literature ++++ ++++

AHRQ in the Professional Literature Clinicians' reasons for non-visit-based, no-infectious-diagnosis-documented antibiotic prescribing: a sequential mixed-methods study. Brown T, Guzman A, Lee JY, et al. Antibiotics. 2025 Jul 23;14(8):740. Access the abstract on PubMed®. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40867935/ Comparing work experiences of internal medicine physicians in Veterans Affairs and non-federal hospitals: a national survey. Gualano SK, Greene MT, Houchens N, et al. J Gen Intern Med. 2025 Sep 4. [Epub ahead of print.] Access the abstract on PubMed®. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40906012/ Targeted EHR-based communication of diagnostic uncertainty (TECU) in the emergency department: protocol for an effectiveness implementation trial. McCarthy DM, Malone S, Papanagnou D, et al. Contemp Clin Trials. 2025 Jun;153:107910. Epub 2025 Apr 7. Access the abstract on PubMed®. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40204252/ Pulmonary congestion on lung ultrasound in ambulatory patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Platz E, McDowell K, Gupta DK, et al. J Card Fail. 2025 Mar 5. [Epub ahead of print.] Access the abstract on PubMed®. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40054838/ Success and safety of neonatal endotracheal tube exchanges: a NEAR4NEOS multicentre retrospective cohort study. Miller K, Pouppirt N, Wildenhain P, et al. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed. 2025 Aug 19;110(5):498-503. Access the abstract on PubMed®. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39922689/ Artificial intelligence approach to optimise safety for hospitalised patients with dementia. Bangerter L, Fong A, Zabala G, et al. BMJ Open Qual. 2025 Sep 3;14(3):e003270. Access the abstract on PubMed®. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40903180/ Developing a toolkit to reduce infections following durable LVAD implantation in the United States using a multistage mixed methods design. Chandanabhumma PP, Swaminathan S, Cabrera LM, et al. Circ Cardiovasc Qual Outcomes. 2025 Oct;18(10):e012073. Epub 2025 Sep 29. Access the abstract on PubMed®. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41017474/ Supporting cardiovascular risk factor management in primary care clinics: the relationship between external linkages and organizational change preparedness. Hearld LR, Hubbard D, Smith KA, et al. J Prim Care Community Health. 2025 Jan-Dec;16:21501319251356551. Epub 2025 Aug 11. Access the abstract on PubMed®. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40785334/

Predictors, Consequences, and Organizational Interventions for Burnout Among Healthcare Workers: A Systematic Review of Longitudinal Studies

https://effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov/products/worker-safety-wellness/research

Average Annual Total Expenses, Total Utilization, and Sources of Payment for Outpatient Prescription Opioids in the U.S. Adult Civilian Noninstitutionalized Population, 2021-2022 Statistical Brief #559 | February 2025 | Xue Wu, PhD, Asako S. Moriya, PhD, and G. Edward Miller, PhD

https://meps.ahrq.gov/data_files/publications/st559/stat559.shtml AHRQ Stats: Insurance Coverage for Opioid Prescriptions Medicare covered 43.9 percent of outpatient hydrocodone fills, 39 percent of oxycodone fills, and 49.5 percent of tramadol fills in 2021 and 2022, accounting for the highest portion covered by any insurer. (Source: AHRQ Medical Expenditure Panel Survey Statistical Brief #559, Average Annual Total Expenses, Total Utilization, and Sources of Payment for Outpatient Prescription Opioids in the U.S. Adult Civilian Noninstitutionalized Population, 2021-2022.)

AHRQ-Funded Intervention Significantly Improves Penicillin Allergy Delabeling

A health record-based, pharmacist-performed intervention in the hospital setting has more than doubled the odds of a patient having their penicillin allergy label removed and increased the odds of oral challenge testing to determine if a penicillin allergy exists. These results, published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice, come from a yearlong randomized trial of the “Pragmatic Removal of Penicillin Allergy Electronic Health Record Labels,” or “PROPEL,” intervention. The PROPEL intervention consisted of two components: a one-time educational opportunity for staff and an electronic health record decision-support resource deployed at randomized 1-month intervals to each of the 12 participating inpatient units, in a stepped wedge trial design. Among the 2,052 patients admitted to a participating unit with an existing penicillin allergy label, those who received care on a unit after the intervention went live were significantly more likely to have their penicillin allergies tested and removed during their hospitalization. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40675326/ The Pragmatic Removal of Penicillin Allergy Electronic Health Record Labels (PROPEL) Trial: A Randomized Clinical Trial Cosby A Stone Jr 1, Heather L Prigmore 2, Allison B McCoy 3, Joanna L Stollings 4, Mary Lynn Dear 5, William Hiser 5, Grace Van Winkle 5, Sunil Kripalani 6, Adam Wright 3, Frank E Harrell 2, Todd W Rice 7, Christopher J Lindsell 8, Elizabeth J Phillips 9; Vanderbilt Learning Healthcare System Platform Investigators 5

Promising Carpet Disinfection Practices Against Clostridioides difficile Endospores

Disinfecting water-resistant nylon carpets with 120 seconds of steam and a specific hydrogen peroxide-based chemical reduced Clostridioides difficile (C. diff.) endospores more effectively than using only steam or other disinfecting chemicals or different carpets. An AHRQ-funded study in Applied and Environmental Microbiology tested how well two hydrogen peroxide- and one chlorine-based chemical removed C. diff. spores, a major source of healthcare-associated infections, from carpets with either water-permeable or waterproof backings. The efficacy of chemical disinfectants can be impacted by the types of carpet backings used in healthcare facilities. These findings are key to informing the development of floor disinfection strategies and the selection of carpet materials in healthcare facilities to improve microbial safety. Efficacy of three chemical disinfectants and steam against Clostridioides difficile endospores on nylon carpet with two different backing systems https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40539776/

Using AI, Simulations To Detect Missed Stroke Diagnoses in Emergency Departments

Two AHRQ-funded studies advance understanding of diagnostic error in stroke care. A Journal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases study used natural language processing to identify neurologically related text markers in emergency department (ED) notes—such as “language,” “motor,” and “imaging”—that may indicate missed or delayed stroke diagnoses. Predictive models using these 11 markers performed well across two academic hospitals, suggesting potential for early identification of high-risk patients. The authors noted that validation in ED settings is needed. Meanwhile, a study in Annals of Emergency Medicine used simulation and applied statistics to examine how factors like physician distraction affect diagnostic accuracy. Among 27 physicians evaluating 100 simulated cases, distractions and the absence of a witness to speak for the patient significantly reduced diagnostic confidence, with distractions having twice the impact when no witness was present. Researchers said the approach offers a promising model for studying diagnostic error and improving training, despite the small sample size and the use of simulations and not real-world settings. Identification of neurological text markers associated with risk of stroke https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40513788/ Evaluating Acute Stroke Diagnosis Using Simulation Scenarios https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40202470/

Discover AHRQ Resources To Strengthen Primary Care Research

https://www.ahrq.gov/ncepcr/index.html To promote a robust primary care research workforce and support emerging researchers, AHRQ’s National Center for Excellence in Primary Care Research (NCEPCR) provides an array of programs and resources. For example, NCEPCR has participated in the junior summer fellows program to give emerging researchers the opportunity to work on primary care research projects, and recognizes that many academic institutions and organizations across the United States offer fellowships in primary care research. To help researchers explore these options, NCEPCR recently published a resource describing some of these fellowship opportunities. The document also includes a list of U.S.-based Primary Care Research Centers working to address the many challenges facing primary care. https://www.ahrq.gov/sites/default/files/wysiwyg/ncepcr/about/ncepcr-fellowships-centers.pdf Another critical step toward building a strong primary care research base and improving care delivery is securing sustainable funding. “Tips for Obtaining Funding for Primary Care Research” provides expert guidance and resources for locating funding for primary care projects. The result of virtual conversations with stakeholders that occurred in March 2025, the publication includes alternative funding sources and tips for obtaining financial support. If you’re seeking funding for a primary care research project, explore these tips from AHRQ to help you get started. https://www.ahrq.gov/ncepcr/funding/tips-obtaining.html

Statistical Brief Covers Use of Preventive Osteoporosis Scans Among Women

In 2022, less than half of all women aged 50 and older who did not have an existing diagnosis of osteoporosis reported having ever received a bone density scan, as did less than 25 percent of women aged 50 to 64. A new statistical brief from AHRQ’s Medical Expenditure Panel Survey project discusses the use of preventive bone density scans among women who have not yet been diagnosed with osteoporosis. While these scans are currently recommended for all women aged 65 and older, some providers have found that beginning them around age 50, when menopause typically occurs, allows for more effective interventions. The brief explores the proportion of women who have received preventive bone density scans and compares them across insurance types, income levels, and other characteristics. https://meps.ahrq.gov/data_stats/Pub_ProdResults_Details.jsp?pt=Statistical+Brief&opt=2&id=1325

FDA Expert Panel on Food Allergies February 25, 2026

https://www.fda.gov/patients/fda-expert-panels/fda-expert-panel-food-allergies-02252026?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery The FDA Expert Panels are roundtable discussions with independent panels of scientific experts that will review the latest scientific evidence, evaluate potential health risks, explore safer alternatives, and may offer recommendations for regulatory action. This initiative is part of the FDA’s broader efforts to apply rigorous, evidence-based standards to modernize regulatory oversight, while considering evolving science and consumer health. The FDA Expert Panel on Food Allergies will facilitate discussions on the etiology and best treatments for food allergies as well as current health guidelines. The expert panel discussion will take place at the FDA’s White Oak Campus, 10903 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, MD, 20993, in the Great Room. The public and members of the media may attend the event. The session will be livestreamed over the FDA’s YouTube channel. Space is limited. Registration is only required for in-person attendance. Please use the link below to register and plan to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the start time to be checked in. https://www.fda.gov/patients/fda-expert-panels/fda-expert-panel-food-allergies-02252026?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

U.S. Global Health Country-Level Funding Tracker Published: Dec 15, 2025

https://www.kff.org/global-health-policy/u-s-global-health-country-level-funding-tracker/ This tracker provides U.S. global health funding data by program area and country. It includes Congressionally appropriated (planned) funding amounts from FY 2006 – FY 2023, as well as obligations and disbursements from FY 2006 – FY 2025 (FY 2025 data are partially reported). Data were obtained from ForeignAssistance.gov (see About This Tracker below for more details). For examples of analyses that can be done using this tracker, please expand the section below.

About Three in Ten Immigrants Already Report Avoiding Travel Due To Immigration-Related Fears

https://www.kff.org/quick-take/about-three-in-ten-immigrants-already-report-avoiding-travel-due-to-immigration-related-fears/ Our survey shows that many immigrants are already avoiding travel and other activities due immigration-related fears, which may increase following news that TSA is sharing information with ICE.

Key Data on Health and Health Care by Race and Ethnicity Authors: Nambi Ndugga, Latoya Hill, Alisha Rao, Akash Pillai, and Samantha Artiga Published: Dec 16, 2025

https://www.kff.org/racial-equity-and-health-policy/key-data-on-health-and-health-care-by-race-and-ethnicity/ This analysis examines how people of color fare compared to White people across 64 measures of health, health care, and social determinants of health using the most recent data available from federal surveys and administrative sets as well as the 2023 KFF Survey on Racism, Discrimination, and Health.

Listen to the Latest ‘KFF Health News Minute’ December 16, 2025

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/listen-to-the-latest-kff-health-news-minute-2025/

One Big Beautiful Bill Act Complicates State Health Care Affordability Efforts By Bernard J. Wolfson December 16, 2025

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/health-costs-spending-affordability-hospitals-california-one-big-beautiful-bill/

Morning Briefing: Today's News Summaries Tuesday, Dec 16 2025 8:48 AM +++ +++ +

Morning Briefing: Today's News Summaries Tuesday, Dec 16 2025 8:48 AM Trump Order Classifies Fentanyl As Weapon Of Mass Destruction The decree gives the administration additional tools to target countries, cartels, and organizations that are connected to the manufacturing and distribution of fentanyl, The Hill reported. Experts pushed back on the new designation, with one noting it “is about looking like you’re doing something rather than actually doing something.” https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/trump-order-classifies-fentanyl-as-weapon-of-mass-destruction/ VA Rolls Out Plan To Restructure Veterans Health Administration The department intends to reduce "duplicative management layers," and says VA medical centers and clinics will retain their staffing levels. Veterans Affairs also will eliminate 25,000 unfilled jobs. Other administration news looks at disability rights lawyers, dietary supplements, saturated fats, and more. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/va-rolls-out-plan-to-restructure-veterans-health-administration/ Senators Buoyed By Talks On ACA But Say Solution Not Likely By End Of 2025 The framework of a bipartisan deal could come about by the end of the week, The Hill reported. Even so, January was targeted as a realistic time frame, senators cautioned. The current enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies will expire Dec. 31. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/senators-buoyed-by-talks-on-aca-but-say-solution-not-likely-by-end-of-2025/ RFK Jr. Calls For Changes As Childhood Vaccine Injuries Group Preps To Meet Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has expressed a desire to add autism to the program. More vaccine news covers covid, long covid, measles, and avian flu in cattle. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/rfk-jr-calls-for-changes-as-childhood-vaccine-injuries-group-preps-to-meet/ FDA Green-Lights Libido-Enhancing Drug For Postmenopausal Women The drug, Addyi, was first approved a decade ago for premenopausal women but comes with some unpleasant side effects. Also: a warning to retailers about tainted formula, a lawsuit over paraquat and Parkinson's, and more. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/fda-green-lights-libido-enhancing-drug-for-postmenopausal-women/ Ohio Pediatricians Claim They Were Fired After Raising Safety Concerns The two Cleveland pediatricians claim they were fired after alerting the hospital leaders to understaffing, vaccine shortages, and lab work delays. They have filed a lawsuit for wrongful termination and defamation. Also: Rural health care workers juggle multiple roles; and more https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/ohio-pediatricians-claim-they-were-fired-after-raising-safety-concerns/ Viewpoints: Both Parties Get Health Care Wrong; Dropping Hep B Birth Dose Has Dangerous Consequences https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/viewpoints-both-parties-get-health-care-wrong-dropping-hep-b-birth-dose-has-dangerous-consequences/

Disability Rights Lawyers Threatened With Budget Cuts, Reassignments By Tony Leys December 16, 2025

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/disability-lawyers-doj-civil-rights-division-protection-advocacy-organizations-iowa/

Editorial COP30: still failing to meet the challenge The Lancet Regional Health – Europe ++... +

Announcing the Lancet Migration European Hub and the Lancet Regional Health-Europe Commission on climate change, migration, displacement and health https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanepe/article/PIIS2666-7762(25)00324-2/fulltext?dgcid=hubspot_update_feature_updatealerts_lanepe&utm_campaign=update-lanepe&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_ZfuQhQDQFjUWuRlUm0rfhusWzwVt4rdUif0WjhNUIh7TLrT9tnOOG1k6VKwyJID3R7kfxs7UUeJ5RqUyvbIOcPtbWKA&_hsmi=394550223&utm_content=394525653&utm_source=hs_email Editorial COP30: still failing to meet the challenge The Lancet Regional Health – Europe https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanepe/issue/vol59nonull/PIIS2666-7762(25)X0010-7 European Medicines Agency approvals of new medicines in September and October 2025 https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanepe/article/PIIS2666-7762(25)00334-5/fulltext?dgcid=hubspot_update_feature_updatealerts_lanepe&utm_campaign=update-lanepe&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9OWO2C0W7XPyAZOnrD1TiRYXsjKeZ0Oq6JaNtX6_6L4TgMg0tRr32W09aCbnx45RejXujaph4H7Al6ykPkVCHi3in5Yg&_hsmi=394550223&utm_content=394525653&utm_source=hs_email

Prepping for the Future: Digital Solutions for Aging Populations Event Date: December 17, 2025 | 1:30pm – 3:00pm ET

https://digital.ahrq.gov/national-webinars/prepping-future-digital-solutions-aging-populations Eligible providers can earn up to 1.5 CE/CME contact hours for participating in the live webinar. AHRQ will host a webinar on December 17th, 2025, from 1:30 – 3:00 p.m. ET that covers how digital technologies such as remote monitoring, telehealth, and personalized health apps are transforming care for older adults by enabling timely interventions, improving access, and supporting independence. Our expert panel will explore how these tools can improve health outcomes, overcome adoption barriers, and ensure older adults benefit from accessible, user-friendly, and effective digital solutions. This webinar was previously scheduled for October. If you registered for that date, please re-register.

Fostering and Faith: Partnerships to Serve Families Fecha y hora17 dic 2025 03:00 p. m

https://hhsgov.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_IOrbjSa9S-awwgt_kQdaqQ#/registration The HHS Center for Faith is pleased to welcome the new Director, Dr. Monty Burks, and the new Senior Advisor, Mr. John Tate! Our fully rounded team is ready and prepared to continue our essential work on strengthening families and revitalizing communities in concert with faith-based entities, community organizations, and houses of worship. See below to learn more about both new members of the HHS Center for Faith Team. We invite you to join our webinar on Wednesday, December 17th, 2025 at 1:00PM ET on Zoom to hear remarks from Dr. Burks and Mr. Tate as they set the tone for a discussion on how government seeks to partner with faith communities making a difference for foster youth in America.

For some with bipolar disorder, manic episodes are magnified for all to see online Delusional, sometimes hurtful remarks can leave ‘a lot of cleaning up to do’ in the era of social media By Eric BergerDec. 16, 2025

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/16/bipolar-disorder-social-media-manic-episodes/

Free pass or failing grade for saturated fats? Review sets off scientific and political debate Authors say they’ve confirmed heart risks of fats in diet, but others see support for MAHA views for dietary guidelines

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/15/saturated-fat-intake-new-study-controversy-impact-dietary-guidelines/ By Elizabeth CooneyDec. 15, 2025 Cardiovascular Disease Reporter

Where does the NIH go from here? Publicly funded research is essential. But federal resources are finite

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/16/nih-future-federal-research-funding-maximize-benefits/ By Christopher M. Worsham and Anupam B. JenaDec. 16, 2025 Worsham and Jena are physicians and researchers at Harvard Medical School and the authors of “Random Acts of Medicine: The Hidden Forces That Sway Doctors, Impact Patients and Shape Our Health.”

In a banner year for biopharma, here are the best industry CEOs of 2025 There were dealmakers, underdogs, and even a maverick

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/16/best-biopharma-ceo-2025-adam-feuerstein-annual-ranking/ By Adam FeuersteinDec. 16, 2025 Adam Feuerstein, a senior writer and biotech columnist, is the author of Adam’s Biotech Scorecard, a subscriber-only newsletter about the crossroads of drug development, business, Wall Street, and biotechnology.

Data on Humana’s clinics looked dismal. Then its corporate research machine got to work A STAT investigation reveals Humana is skewing the debate over how to care for older Americans By Casey Ross and Tara BannowDec. 16, 2025

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/16/investigating-humana-internal-research-medicare-advantage-benefits/

Investigator Responsibilities – Safety Reporting for Investigational Drugs and Devices Guidance for Industry December 2025

https://www.fda.gov/regulatory-information/search-fda-guidance-documents/investigator-responsibilities-safety-reporting-investigational-drugs-and-devices?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery The first guidance is intended for investigators, industry, and institutional review boards (IRBs). This final guidance provides recommendations to help clinical investigators comply with the safety reporting requirements for investigational new drug application (IND) studies and investigational device exemption (IDE) studies as part of their responsibility to protect the rights, safety, and welfare of study participants. The guidance also streamlines and incorporates information from previous guidances to aid stakeholders in easily referencing key information. The second guidance provides recommendations to help sponsors comply with the expedited safety reporting requirements for human drug and biological products that are being investigated under an IND, or as part of a bioavailability (BA) or bioequivalence (BE) study that is exempt from the IND requirements. These two final guidances published today replace the recommendations for investigators and sponsors to comply with safety reporting requirements previously provided in the final guidance documents “Safety Reporting Requirements for INDs and BA/BE Studies” (December 2012) and “Adverse Event Reporting to IRBs—Improving Human Subject Protection” (January 2009); accordingly, FDA has withdrawn the 2012 and 2009 guidance documents. Sponsor Responsibilities - Safety Reporting Requirements and Safety Assessment for IND and Bioavailability/Bioequivalence Studies Guidance for Industry December 2025 https://www.fda.gov/regulatory-information/search-fda-guidance-documents/sponsor-responsibilities-safety-reporting-requirements-and-safety-assessment-ind-and?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

EU Health Data Space Signals Major Shift in Care Ute Eppinger Medscape Europe December 15, 2025

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/eu-health-data-space-signals-major-shift-care-2025a1000z27

What Can Healthcare Do for Women Facing Violence? Annie Lennon Medscape Europe December 16, 2025

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/what-can-healthcare-do-women-facing-violence-2025a1000z90

ChatGPT Consent Forms for Energy-Based Devices Show Potential, With Oversight Edited by Vineeta Teotia December 16, 2025

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/chatgpt-consent-forms-energy-based-devices-show-potential-2025a1000z91

Time-Saving Rx: Smart Hacks for Busy Physicians Jennifer Nelson |

https://www.medscape.com/slideshow/Smart-Hacks-for-Busy-Physicians-6018722b?ecd=WNL_physrep_251215_MSCPEDIT_time-management_etid7956487&uac=148436CN&impID=7956487

Journalists Talk Increasing Insurance Costs, From Marketplace Plans to Employer Coverage December 13, 2025

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/on-air-december-13-2025-aca-obamacare-enhanced-subsidies-premium-costs/

Viewpoints: Employers Can Ensure Fair Access To GLP-1s; Testosterone Won’t Stop Aging Or Menopause

https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/viewpoints-employers-can-ensure-fair-access-to-glp-1s-testosterone-wont-stop-aging-or-menopause/

With Clock Ticking Down On ACA Subsidies, Congress Is Still Deadlocked

With Clock Ticking Down On ACA Subsidies, Congress Is Still Deadlocked The House will take up health care measures this week, but none of them will offer a straight, multiyear extension on enhanced Obamacare tax credits. Plus, more about the politics of Obamacare subsidies and what that could mean for U.S. health care. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/with-clock-ticking-down-on-aca-subsidies-congress-is-still-deadlocked/

Provision To Withhold Funding For Planned Parenthood Upheld In Court

Provision To Withhold Funding For Planned Parenthood Upheld In Court The provision of the tax law enacted in July requires the government to stop making Medicaid reimbursements to a subset of the nation’s largest abortion providers, which Planned Parenthood says singled them out, The New York Times reports. The lawsuit will now return to a lower court. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/provision-to-withhold-funding-for-planned-parenthood-upheld-in-court/

Illinois Enacts Medical Aid-In-Dying Law Despite Controversy, Protests

Illinois Enacts Medical Aid-In-Dying Law Despite Controversy, Protests Gov. JB Pritzker, a Democrat, said the legislation will help terminally ill patients "avoid unnecessary pain and suffering at the end of their lives." More news comes out of California, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/illinois-enacts-medical-aid-in-dying-law-despite-controversy-protests/

Measles Detected In Connecticut; US On Cusp Of Losing Elimination Status

Measles Detected In Connecticut; US On Cusp Of Losing Elimination Status An unvaccinated child traveler starting showing symptoms of the virus soon after returning home from abroad. As South Carolina becomes the latest hot spot, disease experts criticize the Trump administration — specifically HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. — for continued transmission. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/measles-detected-in-connecticut-us-on-cusp-of-losing-elimination-status/

GAO Report Indicates FDA Rarely Pulls Defective Medical Devices Off Market

GAO Report Indicates FDA Rarely Pulls Defective Medical Devices Off Market The Government Accountability Office's new report says the FDA's understaffing means it has difficulty ensuring companies are taking critical steps to protect patients. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/gao-report-indicates-fda-rarely-pulls-defective-medical-devices-off-market/

Tanning Bed Use Causes Significant Skin Cell Damage, Study Finds

Tanning Bed Use Causes Significant Skin Cell Damage, Study Finds The Northwestern Medicine study showed that tanning bed use not only increases skin cancer risk but also damages skin cell DNA. The study was prompted by recurrent melanoma in a high number of women under 50. Also: cervical, ovarian, and breast cancer; mental health; and gun violence. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/tanning-bed-use-causes-significant-skin-cell-damage-study-finds/

How To Pick Health Insurance — In the Worst Year Ever Season 14, Episode 5 December 15, 2025

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/podcast/arm-and-a-leg-picking-health-insurance-2026-tips/

FDA Panelists Questioned Antidepressants in Pregnancy. But Doctors Call Them a Lifeline. By Lisa Rab December 15, 2025

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/fda-antidepressants-risks-pregnancy-mothers-ssri-mental-health/

As superbug fears grow, sales of antibiotics used in food-producing livestock rose dramatically last year Sale of medically important antibiotics given to livestock increased by 16% overall

https://www.statnews.com/pharmalot/2025/12/12/fda-animals-livestock-antibiotics-pigs-cattle-chicken/ By Ed SilvermanDec. 12, 2025 Pharmalot Columnist, Senior Writer

STAT readers respond to essays on miracles, vaccines, and more Keep those letters coming!

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/13/stat-letters-editor-hhs-report-vaccines-miracles/

Medicare routes $16 billion to insurers to offset high drug costs The record-high payout signals stress in the program’s prescription drug market

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/12/medicare-part-d-costs-soar-insurers-get-16-billion-reconciliation-payment/ By Bob HermanDec. 12, 2025 Business of Health Care Reporter

Trump order blocking state AI laws could slow health AI adoption, leave patients vulnerable State laws offer providers some guidance and protect patients in the absence of comprehensive federal AI laws

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/12/trump-order-blocking-state-ai-laws-could-slow-health-ai-adoption/ By Brittany TrangDec. 12, 2025 Health Tech Reporter

I’m a CVS pharmacist. My retail pharmacy colleagues and I face a crisis It has never been more challenging to do my job safely

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/12/pharmacists-crisis-union-patient-safety/ By Chris EggemanDec. 12, 2025 Eggeman is a member of the Pharmacy Guild and a pharmacist at CVS in Wakefield, R.I.

Medscape Physicians and AI Report 2025: Evolving Attitudes About Technology’s Future Role Jon McKenna | December 9, 2025 |

https://www.medscape.com/slideshow/Physicians-AI-Report-2025-6018800?ecd=WNL_physrep_251213_MSCPEDIT_physicians-AI_etid7952184&uac=148436CN&impID=7952184 We're digging into how physicians really feel about AI compared with two years ago. Some of their responses might surprise you. From AI-driven diagnoses to malpractice control, here’s a quick look at where your peers stand on AI’s role in their profession.

Use Of Independent Medical Review: Almost One-Half Of Coverage Denials Overturned Grace A. Lin, Janet M. Coffman, Michael P. Douglas, and Kathryn A. Phillips

https://www.healthaffairs.org/doi/10.1377/hlthaff.2025.00716

The Cure Hepatitis C Act Of 2025: Critical Questions And Policy Design Considerations M. Christopher Roebuck Carl E. Schmid II

https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/cure-hepatitis-c-act-2025-critical-questions-and-policy-design-considerations?utm_campaign=forefront&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9pl4wiMjO5I6QQr8I666juVa-Hb9wYSa8XdmsmJVyeFClMSYY84cjTOfWG9GIhAfVCiVvYYyH7B1ZcQ4zLod2NlOwX1g&_hsmi=394215797&utm_source=hasu

Hospitals’ Expanding Pursuit Of Nonclinical Revenue Soleil Shah Niyum Gandhi

https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/hospitals-expanding-pursuit-nonclinical-revenue

Ensure Access To Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy, A Key Tool For Ending The HIV Nathaniel M. Tran Manuel G. Cortez Tara McKay December 10, 2025

https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/ensure-access-gender-affirming-hormone-therapy-state-adap-formularies

Graduate Loan Caps Put Advanced Nursing Education—And Access To Care—At Risk Y. Tony Yang

https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/graduate-loan-caps-put-advanced-nursing-education-and-access-care-risk

The Law That Saved America’s Vaccines—And That Secretary Kennedy Is Trying To Destroy Ted Kennedy, Jr. Richard Hughes IV

https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/law-saved-america-s-vaccines-and-secretary-kennedy-trying-destroy

No Clear Front-Runner To Extend ACA Subsidies Lindsey Murtagh Jared Perkins Hayden Rooke-Ley Erin C. Fuse Brown

https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/no-clear-front-runner-extend-aca-subsidies

Health Affairs Highlights Of 2025 Health Affairs

https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/highlights-health-affairs-2025

Do Medicare’s IPAY 2027 Negotiated Drug Prices Reflect Value For Money? Peter J. Neumann Joshua T. Cohen Sean D. Sullivan Feng Xie

https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/do-medicare-s-ipay-2027-negotiated-drug-prices-reflect-value-money

In Public Health, Non-Governmental Actors Are Rising To Meet The Moment Karen Hacker Anne Morris Reid

https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/public-health-non-governmental-actors-rising-meet-moment

Beyond the Numbers: Insights From The 2027 Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Cycle Kristi Martin Rachel Sachs

https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/beyond-numbers-insights-2027-medicare-drug-price-negotiation-cycle

The Latest on Drug Policies T. Joseph Mattingly II Laura Tollen January 21, 2026

https://www.healthaffairs.org/do/10.1377/he20251210.32037/full/?utm_campaign=insidermarketing&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_ai4xhrU2Nxdqzb7Q4JfY2i8Md6pVCDehST_rlIlJTpxVzJCjE9L6UtVEuu0rmggOMczriObFrHqcreMV57tTkuDCp4Q&_hsmi=394215797&utm_content=eventspecific&utm_source=hasu

Consumer Debt, Race, And Health: Can Debt Relief Be A Solution For Reducing Racial Health Disparities? Fenaba R. Addo

Consumer Debt, Race, And Health: Can Debt Relief Be A Solution For Reducing Racial Health Disparities? Fenaba R. Addo Consumer debt is a public health concern that is strongly associated with racial inequality. There is a need for more research exploring these relationships, but current evidence points toward steps that policy makers can take now to address debt as a social determinant of health and health equity. December 11, 2025 https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/briefs/consumer-debt-race-and-health-can-debt-relief-solution-reducing-racial-health?utm_campaign=health+policy+brief&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_Uip3TRmlisI9jMVYfhKTTQ0_AgXjKbMYqWdCcoy90n96YRhxtBdq4KCHdqvvbfKPUmKmfEJ-wswDAZYTiFBSRt09XcQ&_hsmi=394215797&utm_source=hasu

The Number-One Reason Doctors Move Abroad (It’s Not Pay) Nadia El-Awady |

https://www.medscape.com/slideshow/doctors-move-abroad-report-2025-6018843?ecd=mkm_ret_251214_mscpmrk-OUS_PhyReports_etid7940486&uac=148436CN&impID=7940486

Event guide: The 9th DDR Inhibitors Summit 2026

https://www.news-medical.net/industry-focus/Event-guide-The-9th-DDR-Inhibitors-Summit-2026?utm_source=azonetwork_newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=cell_biology_newsletter_9_december_2025 The DNA Damage Response (DDR) field is entering a defining new phase. With PARP inhibitors firmly established in the clinic, attention is turning toward next-generation DDR targets – including ATR, CHK1/2, DNA-PK, and WEE1 – and the biomarker-driven combination strategies that promise to unlock greater selectivity, durability, and reduced toxicity.

Low birth rate in the Asia–Pacific region +...

https://www.thelancet.com/series-do/low-birth-rate?dgcid=hubspot_email_infocusalerts-obgyn_feature_lanwpclowbirthrate25&utm_campaign=infocusalerts-obgyn&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9Q08PQCAzJdg-_5UPzO0Sp1c3xaU0nBN6LqDH3m8aV8CH2NotPWKEs2C09mFcJohwJM5egyZOhYJmLD6ytFEYgBfO00A&_hsmi=394205658&utm_content=393822774&utm_source=hs_email

Universal health coverage: necessary, but not enough The Lancet ++... +

Universal health coverage: necessary, but not enough The Lancet https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(25)02511-5/fulltext?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_email Dec 13, 2025 Volume 406Number 10521p2727-2864 https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/issue/vol406no10521/PIIS0140-6736(25)X0050-7 Transcatheter aortic valve implantation with the Trilogy valve for symptomatic native aortic regurgitation (ALIGN-AR): a pivotal, multicentre, single-arm, investigational device exemption study https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(25)02215-9/abstract?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_feature_lancet

Editorial Strengthening genomic surveillance for neglected tropical diseases in the Americas ++... ++

Editorial Strengthening genomic surveillance for neglected tropical diseases in the Americas https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanam/article/PIIS2667-193X(25)00349-7/fulltext?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_email Dec 2025 Volume 52 https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanam/issue/vol52nonull/PIIS2667-193X(25)X0011-9 Mycobacterium tuberculosis transmission dynamics within prisons: a population-based genomic study https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanam/article/PIIS2667-193X(25)00272-8/fulltext?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_feature_lanam Impact and effectiveness of RSV maternal immunization on infant hospitalizations in Buenos Aires: a hospital-based, multicentre, retrospective surveillance cohort study https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanam/article/PIIS2667-193X(25)00307-2/fulltext?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_feature_lanam

Infographic: Physicians’ Shifting Attitudes Toward AI Jon McKenna December 12, 2025

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/infographic-physicians-shifting-attitudes-toward-ai-2025a1000yd0

KFF Health Tracking Poll: Health Care Costs in the Current Moment of Economic Anxiety Authors: Liz Hamel and Julian Montalvo III Published: Dec 11, 2025

https://www.kff.org/public-opinion/kff-health-tracking-poll-health-care-costs-in-the-current-moment-of-economic-anxiety/ As economic anxiety rises, KFF's Health Tracking Poll finds that younger adult, LGBT adults, Hispanic adults, and adults with modest incomes are among groups most likely to report difficulty earning a living and affording health care. Large shares of those who are uninsured or purchase their own insurance also report challenges earning a living and paying for care.

Viewpoints: Obamacare Dispute Exposes Political Dysfunction; CDC’s New Advisers Are Vaccine Skeptics

https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/viewpoints-obamacare-dispute-exposes-political-dysfunction-cdcs-new-advisers-are-vaccine-skeptics/

Longer Looks: Interesting Reads You Might Have Missed

Longer Looks: Interesting Reads You Might Have Missed Each week, KFF Health News finds longer stories for you to enjoy. Today's selections are on antibiotics, medically assisted death, acromegaly, organ donation, and more. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/longer-looks-interesting-reads-you-might-have-missed-244/

Oregon Breaks State Record Set In 1950 For Annual Cases Of Whooping Cough

Oregon Breaks State Record Set In 1950 For Annual Cases Of Whooping Cough "I worry people may not fully appreciate the risk pertussis poses," said Dr. Howard Chiou, medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at Oregon Health Authority's Public Health Division. Oregon has reported 1,475 cases so far in 2025, surpassing the previous record of 1,420. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/oregon-breaks-state-record-set-in-1950-for-annual-cases-of-whooping-cough/

Report: Top Health Insurers Not So Transparent On Negotiated Prices

Report: Top Health Insurers Not So Transparent On Negotiated Prices An analysis shows that UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, and Cigna only partially disclosed price data, despite federal rules requiring full disclosure. The worry is that this could harm the nation's employers when it comes time to choose workplace coverage. Plus: CMS' new Medicare payment model focuses on digital health, chronic conditions, and prior authorizations. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/report-top-health-insurers-not-so-transparent-on-negotiated-prices/

Education Department Hands Out Mental Health Grants Worth $208M

Education Department Hands Out Mental Health Grants Worth $208M This announcement comes after the Trump administration canceled more than 200 Biden-era mental health grants. The 65 new grant recipients are being encouraged to focus on "evidence-based student services," with more than half of the grant money going to rural communities. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/education-department-hands-out-mental-health-grants-worth-208m/

Trump Weighs Reclassifying Pot; Study Cites Scant Benefit In Medical Use

Trump Weighs Reclassifying Pot; Study Cites Scant Benefit In Medical Use Cannabis is currently a Schedule 1 substance, on par with heroin and LSD. Reclassifying it as a Schedule III drug would put it in the same category as mild prescription painkillers. The change would ease barriers to research, The Washington Post reports. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/trump-weighs-reclassifying-pot-study-cites-scant-benefit-in-medical-use/

Covid Vaccines Might Soon Come With Cautionary FDA ‘Black Box’ Label

Covid Vaccines Might Soon Come With Cautionary FDA ‘Black Box’ Label Dr. Vinay Prasad, the FDA's director of the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, is said to be making plans to unveil by the end of this year a plan to include the most serious warnings on the inoculations. Moderna and Pfizer have maintained that their shots are safe and effective. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/covid-vaccines-might-soon-come-with-cautionary-fda-black-box-label/

Senate Blocks Rival Health Care Bills; ACA Premiums Expected To Soar

Senate Blocks Rival Health Care Bills; ACA Premiums Expected To Soar Neither the Democrats' proposal — extending Obamacare subsidies for three years — nor the Republicans' plan — boosting health savings accounts — garnered enough votes to take the pressure off Americans facing higher health care costs. Lawmakers still have until next week to find a fix. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/senate-blocks-rival-health-care-bills-aca-premiums-expected-to-soar/

Trump Administration Actions to Curb Data Collection Related to Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) Authors: Lindsey Dawson and Juliette Cubanski Published: Dec 11, 2025

https://www.kff.org/lgbtq/trump-administration-actions-to-curb-data-collection-related-to-sexual-orientation-and-gender-identity-sogi/?utm_campaign=KFF-This-Week&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9FHWpIB1symZNnXiilxSTUFWHdqCYJKuPPj34vi_rtpIZPm87KnATisTjyfJEe7ksVQ1sqbUA9YVJ3I2Zt1pNjyIG9SQ&_hsmi=394181359&utm_content=394181359&utm_source=hs_email On January 20, 2025, the first day of his second term, President Trump issued an executive order on “gender ideology” outlining how his administration would view sex and gender and incorporate these concepts into government. This executive order has had widespread implications across government and for federal grantees. One area that has been impacted is the federal government’s data collection efforts. This includes changes to questions about sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) in multiple federal surveys, and retreating from plans to incorporate SOGI questions in surveys of the U.S. population by the Census Bureau. While data collection on both sexual orientation and gender has been scaled back or modified, measures relating to gender identity have been more specifically targeted for deletion. Trump Rules Force Cancer Registries To ‘Erase’ Trans Patients From Public Health Data By Rachana Pradhan December 11, 2025 https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/listen-wamu-health-hub-cancer-registries-sex-assigned-at-birth-transgender-data-rule/?utm_campaign=KFF-This-Week&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8p8Df5DNBFGOYc0-llwnJz8dVMIl1PYNm2NX03emRO6Q4Eb8Z92Nbt5U93N32YoJuNflMhvV-DWQjgrsfVzeZ9IBK7Ng&_hsmi=394181359&utm_content=394181359&utm_source=hs_email In 2026, the Trump administration will require U.S. cancer registries that receive federal funding to classify patients’ sex as male, female — or not stated/unknown. That last category is for when a “patient’s sex is documented as other than male or female (e.g., non-binary, transsexual), and there is no additional information about sex assigned at birth,” the new standard says. This HIV Expert Refused To Censor Data, Then Quit the CDC By Amy Maxmen December 10, 2025 https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/hiv-expert-john-weiser-refused-to-censor-data-quit-cdc-transgender-interview/?utm_campaign=KFF-This-Week&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--HE0KEr4e8t8LqdxQNr2dg7mUr_wzSFgMmmOCas9_CY2mCOiIkg3B6AUHIW7cMjM6sW_A-Hc9Bpgc4Unvq6QMRT6bi8w&_hsmi=394181359&utm_content=394181359&utm_source=hs_email John Weiser, a doctor and researcher, has treated people with HIV since the beginning of the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s. He joined the CDC’s HIV prevention team in 2011 to help lead its Medical Monitoring Project, the only in-depth survey of HIV across the United States. The project has shaped the country’s response to the epidemic over two decades, but the Trump administration censored last year’s findings and stopped funding it.

As ACA Deadline Approaches, Some Price-Sensitive Consumers May Consider Switching to Short-Term Plans Michelle Long Senior Policy Manager, Program on Patient and Consumer Protections

https://www.kff.org/quick-take/as-aca-deadline-approaches-some-price-sensitive-consumers-may-consider-switching-to-short-term-plans/?utm_campaign=KFF-This-Week&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--HgCu0MBLlCXMv5HlbtGUzp-bXBews6hImfuDeOdf49rk-c0lhUlKOTbWLySvzbg7dlwT8OwptwM5jJiMhELR7rXSPzg&_hsmi=394181359&utm_content=394181359&utm_source=hs_email “In the final six weeks of open enrollment, price-sensitive consumers may be considering tradeoffs: pay more for health insurance that provides more financial security or lower their monthly costs by assuming more financial risk if they get sick or injured (if they’re healthy enough to enroll in a limited benefit product to begin with). The decision could come down to the information they receive about their options and health insurance literacy.”

CDC Vaccine Panel Ends Universal Hepatitis B Recommendation and Reviews Aluminum in Vaccines, Plus Public Awareness of Mifepristone Safety Irving Washington , Hagere Yilma , and Joel Luther

https://www.kff.org/health-information-trust/cdc-vaccine-panel-ends-universal-hepatitis-b-recommendation-and-reviews-aluminum-in-vaccines-plus-public-awareness-of-mifepristone-safety/?utm_campaign=KFF-This-Week&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9Lsd2E3jo73nDK3qyyVtOn3mLtiz6WMGgBDaVJkQA_exNn9by3x3O_9wLQipLTqO4LV139lnYhhYy4-MhJa2vSGpaN9g&_hsmi=394181359&utm_content=394181359&utm_source=hs_email CDC Vaccine Panel Ends Universal Hepatitis B Recommendation and Reviews Aluminum in Vaccines This volume of The Monitor shares updates from the most recent CDC advisory panel meeting, changes to the CDC webpage on autism and vaccines, and polling on trust in news organizations. Additionally, it shares recent developments in AI and social media policy and new KFF poll findings about perceptions of mifepristone’s safety and prevalence.

Watch: What Do Republicans Really Want on Health Care? By Julie Rovner December 8, 2025

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/watch-republicans-health-care-working-class-issue/?utm_campaign=KFF-This-Week&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--ssXlsfGEDbw1R9vIp6JatoM_j9kqAAKNZMpouCpEl_FdkHUE8P8u-yUuuRxhH7Y2byS-_5fNbfJPNCAOYV7uAXx9-sw&_hsmi=394181359&utm_content=394181359&utm_source=hs_email Watch: What Do Republicans Really Want on Health Care? On “What the Health? From KFF Health News,” distributed by WAMU, chief Washington correspondent and podcast host Julie Rovner sat down with Avik Roy, a GOP health policy adviser, to talk about how health care has evolved as a Republican Party issue.

Health Policy in 2026 Author: Drew Altman Published: Dec 8, 2025

https://www.kff.org/from-drew-altman/health-policy-in-2026/?utm_campaign=KFF-This-Week&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_cQ0CaLK45JntCEVCmoARYLGEr7Ehmonj4Qr3z67cgHXy6XqdvARNZyrrM6QfC2zfFNxUfQAzLyoPh1W9HXnekHB2GhA&_hsmi=394181359&utm_content=394181359&utm_source=hs_email In a new Beyond the Data column, President and CEO Dr. Drew Altman forecasts eight things to look for in health policy in 2026. “First and foremost,” he writes, “is the role health care affordability will play in the midterms.” And, he notes: “The average cost of a family policy for employers could approach $30,000 and cost sharing and deductibles will rise again after plateauing for several years.”

Price of a Life: Is Europe’s Drug Framework Broken? Sophie Cousins ++++

Price of a Life: Is Europe’s Drug Framework Broken? Sophie Cousins Medscape Europe December 12, 2025 https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/price-life-europes-drug-framework-broken-2025a1000yxv?ecd=wnl_edit_tpal_etid7951571&uac=148436CN&impID=7951571 New Study Shows Broad Impact of Online Reviews on Physicians Julie Peck December 12, 2025 https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/new-study-shows-broad-impact-online-reviews-physicians-2025a1000yx0?ecd=wnl_edit_tpal_etid7951571&uac=148436CN&impID=7951571 Why Economic Indifference Is Risky for UK Doctors Arya Anthony Kamyab, MBBS https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/why-economic-indifference-risky-uk-doctors-2025a1000yp8?ecd=wnl_edit_tpal_etid7951571&uac=148436CN&impID=7951571 Why Healthcare Prices Keep Climbing: A Political Scientist Explains Victoria Knight https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/why-healthcare-prices-keep-climbing-political-scientist-2025a1000ywe?ecd=wnl_edit_tpal_etid7951571&uac=148436CN&impID=7951571 December 12, 2025

Acting head of beleaguered mental health agency to depart this week SAMHSA has been hit by heavy cuts in personnel and funding under Trump

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/11/samsha-acting-chief-art-kleinschmidt-leaves-post/ By Lev FacherDec. 11, 2025 Addiction Reporter

New antibiotic can effectively treat gonorrhea, study finds The STI has developed resistance to several drugs, so new options are sorely needed

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/11/new-oral-antibiotic-zoliflodacin-effective-against-gonorrhea/ By Helen BranswellDec. 11, 2025 Infectious Diseases Correspondent

Trump signs executive order to block state AI regulations The order directs the Attorney General to set up a task force to challenge state laws

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/11/trump-signs-executive-order-blocking-state-ai-regulations/

How hepatitis B vaccine changes could add confusion for families, limit protection against other diseases Experts say federal panel gave little consideration to knock-on effects of new recommendations

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/12/cdc-acip-hepatitis-b-vaccine-change-overlooked-key-concern/ By Helen BranswellDec. 12, 2025 Infectious Diseases Correspondent

I’m a CVS pharmacist. My retail pharmacy colleagues and I face a crisis It has never been more challenging to do my job safely

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/12/pharmacists-crisis-union-patient-safety/ By Chris EggemanDec. 12, 2025 Eggeman is a member of the Pharmacy Guild and a pharmacist at CVS in Wakefield, R.I.

Finally, some good news in health care Nurses, fed up with too many shifts and too little staff, are fighting back

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/12/nurses-overwork-staffing-union-hope-health-care-upmc-seiu/ By Theresa BrownDec. 12, 2025 Brown, a nurse, is the author of “The Shift” and “Healing” and a frequent contributor to The New York Times.

FDA staff fear Tracy Beth Høeg will bring bias and instability to embattled drug center Høeg has been unusually involved in scrutinizing products that she believes might be harmful

https://www.statnews.com/2025/12/11/tracy-beth-hoeg-fda-cder-director-faces-staff-mistrust/?utm_campaign=breaking_news&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_X-hZTFF8wXsl5qDcvlGTYtQuLViSHVJjKp00DT5-nCqpFnLP7MbsqozUXXzQnqcgGD1grCsQDimie6hJQhEeYcECFvw&_hsmi=394107681&utm_content=394107681&utm_source=hs_email By Lizzy LawrenceDec. 11, 2025 FDA Reporter