In 2026, drug discovery faces a higher bar Biopharma’s recovery is real, but the data show a sector that now rewards validated biology, late-stage execution, and commercial relevance.

https://www.drugdiscoverynews.com/in-2026-drug-discovery-faces-a-higher-bar-16997?utm_campaign=DDN_Newsletter_Dose&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8yAVWjuXEKY32ZcNe9QydBmgJyTL4i8znpMLbjAOaQQRcBp_f_YKgfxwUnDKXf9PRoeB49U712rocMUeu57uhUykhIeg&_hsmi=405284917&utm_content=405284917&utm_source=hs_email After several years of contraction, biopharma is heading into 2026 with measurable signs of recovery. The Nasdaq Biotechnology Index reached a record high in late 2025, large pharmaceutical companies committed more than $36 billion to biotech acquisitions in just two months, and late-stage clinical successes have begun translating into higher valuations.

Blockbuster drugs face a massive patent cliff in 2026 Generic and biosimilar competition is poised to disrupt billions in annual drug sales, reshaping market dynamics for some of the industry’s most important medicines.

https://www.drugdiscoverynews.com/blockbuster-drugs-face-a-massive-patent-cliff-in-2026-17019?utm_campaign=DDN_Newsletter_Dose&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_8FpRA_clew71NPJmVat5rbxixpCI0Md-EB1dhkQKKfSzev0alK-lbF0ggSI-7uEbMWJsrU5qONEcy5mH3ES7wCMiNMQ&_hsmi=405284917&utm_content=405284917&utm_source=hs_email In the world of pharmaceuticals, patents matter. They grant drugmakers exclusive rights to sell a medicine for a defined period, allowing companies to recover massive research and development costs and, in many cases, generate profits to fund future innovation. Once those patents expire, however, the competitive landscape shifts dramatically as cheaper generic or biosimilar versions can enter the market, often leading to steep price reductions and sharply reduced revenue for the original brand.

Viewpoints: Entering Advanced Nursing Careers Just Got Harder; The Truth About Youth Gender Care

https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/viewpoints-entering-advanced-nursing-careers-just-got-harder-the-truth-about-youth-gender-care/

Florida, Trump Administration At Odds Over Medicaid Program Application

Florida, Trump Administration At Odds Over Medicaid Program Application Florida’s Republican congressional delegation is getting involved in an effort to get approval for the program, which boosts payments to state hospitals. Also: AbbVie is planning two manufacturing facilities in North Chicago; Camp Mystic parents sue the state of Texas; and more. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/florida-trump-administration-at-odds-over-medicaid-program-application/

On Trump’s Request, High Court Agrees To Hear Case On Fossil Fuel Lawsuits

On Trump’s Request, High Court Agrees To Hear Case On Fossil Fuel Lawsuits In an unusual move, the Trump administration asked the Supreme Court to take up the case of whether or not states and cities can sue large oil and gas companies for climate change damages driven by greenhouse gas emissions and pollution from the industry. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/on-trumps-request-high-court-agrees-to-hear-case-on-fossil-fuel-lawsuits/

Dentists Keep Prescribing Clindamycin Despite ‘Black Box’ Label, C Diff Risk

Dentists Keep Prescribing Clindamycin Despite ‘Black Box’ Label, C Diff Risk CIDRAP takes a deeper look at the antibiotic's health effects. Also in the news: The FDA has approved milsaperidone to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder; Bayer sues Johnson & Johnson; Mounjaro may reduce alcohol intake; and more. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/dentists-keep-prescribing-clindamycin-despite-black-box-label-c-diff-risk/

Kaiser Mental Health Therapists Vote To Strike Just As Nurses Are Returning

Kaiser Mental Health Therapists Vote To Strike Just As Nurses Are Returning A day after the union representing more than 31,000 Kaiser Permanente health care professionals noted productive labor negotiations and agreed to end the four-week walkout, KP mental health therapists in California voted to authorize a one-day unfair labor practice strike. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/kaiser-mental-health-therapists-vote-to-strike-just-as-nurses-are-returning/

FDA Unveils Framework To Fast-Track Rare Disease Gene Therapy Approvals

FDA Unveils Framework To Fast-Track Rare Disease Gene Therapy Approvals The proposed system would create a standardized process for authorizing cutting-edge treatments where there is a plausible reason to think they might work, the AP reported.

CDC’s Second-In-Command Resigns After Less Than 2 Months On The Job

CDC’s Second-In-Command Resigns After Less Than 2 Months On The Job Ralph Abraham said “unforeseen family obligations” are pulling him away from his role as the agency’s deputy secretary general. Plus, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force might be in HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s crosshairs, former members warn. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/cdcs-second-in-command-resigns-after-less-than-2-months-on-the-job/

Primary Care Research Webinars: Building the Primary Care Research Workforce: Fellowships in Action

Primary Care Research Webinars: 2026 Webinar Series: Tools and Resources to Support Primary Care Research Register for AHRQ Webinar—Building the Primary Care Research Workforce: Fellowships in Action. Join AHRQ’s National Center for Excellence in Primary Care Research (NCEPCR) for a webinar on February 26 from 2–3:30 p.m. ET. In this webinar, learn about fellowships in primary care research and a new AHRQ resource with information about these opportunities. We will hold a panel discussion with fellows and fellowship directors from selected programs. Join AHRQ’s National Center for Excellence in Primary Care Research (NCEPCR) for the webinar titled, Building the Primary Care Research Workforce: Fellowships in Action, on February 26 from 2–3:30 p.m. ET. In this webinar, learn about fellowships in primary care research and a new AHRQ resource with information about these opportunities. We will hold a panel discussion with fellows and fellowship directors from selected programs. Fellows will share how their experience has impacted their primary care research career. Fellowship directors will share information about the requirements and expectations of fellowships, and the value of these programs for their institutions. There will be a Q&A period at the end.

TrumpRx: What’s the Value for Customers? Authors: Kaye Pestaina, Michelle Long, and Justin Lo Published: Feb 24, 2026

https://www.kff.org/patient-consumer-protections/trumprx-whats-the-value-for-customers/?utm_campaign=KFF-Health-Costs&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8n467AwUXTer2172rbYuuVPKZBwJdMZ0lhnUk2kuZxrMx6rbGADq-npak5W0efrcT2OADATBxB_aTnag1jFJ4WU5v1pw&_hsmi=405263454&utm_content=405263454&utm_source=hs_email KFF Examines the Potential for New TrumpRx Website to Help Consumers A new KFF analysis examines the drugs and price discounts available on the TrumpRx website and assesses its potential to help consumers save money on their medications. Launched earlier this month, the website allows consumers to search for discounts on primarily brand-name drugs for customers who buy the drugs without using insurance. Consumers can print out manufacturer coupons that they typically can use at retail pharmacies. As of today, the site offers discounts on 43 different medications from five manufacturers that are used to treat a range of conditions, including asthma, arthritis, infertility, and diabetes. The discounts are only available to people who do not use insurance to purchase the drugs. In some cases, lower-cost generic versions of the drugs are available, potentially saving consumers even more money than the coupons. For people with insurance, the analysis walks through various scenarios to illustrate different factors that could determine whether the discounted drugs would provide any cost savings compared to using their insurance.

FDA Launches Framework for Accelerating Development of Individualized Therapies for Ultra-Rare Diseases

https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-launches-framework-accelerating-development-individualized-therapies-ultra-rare-diseases?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

FDA unveils rules for bespoke gene therapies, predicting flood of rare disease applications Guidance on ‘plausible mechanism pathway’ includes limits, though questions remain on scope

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/23/fda-rare-disease-new-guidelines-plausible-mechanism-pathway/ By Jason Mast and Lizzy LawrenceFeb. 23, 2026

Optum CMO: Doctors must take responsibility for patient outcomes Our research finds that ‘two-sided risk’ Medicare Advantage plans benefited patients By Ken CohenFeb. 24, 2026 Cohen is chief medical officer of Optum Health.

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/24/medicare-advantage-plans-doctors-risk-outcomes-optum-research/

Digital twins, the holy grail of preventative health, are still only a ‘Frankensteinian proof of principle’ True implementation in medicine is still years or even decades away, experts say

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/24/digital-twins-health-care-hype-reality/ By Mohana RavindranathFeb. 24, 2026 In this series of stories, Ravindranath, a 2025 Association of Health Care Journalists fellow, takes a closer look at future of personalized medicine and how that’s impacting health care.

In earnings call, Hims CEO addresses scrutiny of GLP-1 compounding CEO emphasized the company’s other offerings and potential for branded deals By Katie PalmerFeb. 23, 2026 Health Tech Correspondent

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/23/him-hers-earnings-2026-outlook-compounded-semaglutide/

It’s time for a new era of advocacy for physicians Doctors can’t advocate quietly anymore By Sarah C. NosalFeb. 24, 2026 Nosal is president of the American Academy of Family Physicians.

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/24/doctors-advocacy-aafp-lobbying-congress/

PHARMA AND TECH +++ +++ +

PHARMA AND TECH MedPage Today: New Pill Approved For Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder https://www.medpagetoday.com/psychiatry/bipolardisorder/120004?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--M08xiIrZYvY8hS7xptzTnMEmSU_aZpf65Av35DNWUAYIjND4I8XAo7_C0Z-FnwnxKnN7PEd6ILpLIRjHR90-KP3X50g&_hsmi=405257711&utm_content=405257711&utm_source=hs_email The FDA approved milsaperidone (Bysanti) tablets as first-line therapy for adults with schizophrenia and manic or mixed episodes related to bipolar I disorder, Vanda Pharmaceuticals announced on Friday. Milsaperidone is an active metabolite of Vanda's existing drug iloperidone (Fanapt) and represents a new chemical entity in the atypical antipsychotic class. In clinical research, milsaperidone was bioequivalent to iloperidone across all therapeutic doses, Vanda said. (Monaco, 2/23) Stat: Bayer Sues J&J Over 'Misleading Claims' About Prostate Cancer Drug https://www.statnews.com/pharmalot/2026/02/23/bayer-jnj-prostate-cancer-false-advertising-lawsuit/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--OCwTg_fRunJy-w7GIsQJBo0qLyP1-pKVY-E0fDg3fFrnDWskqevwzl8lWCHHyZ0VI_7WN5ZNsd7m9BnmzV_9E8Kvizw&_hsmi=405257711&utm_content=405257711&utm_source=hs_email Underscoring the high-stakes market for prostate cancer medicines, Bayer filed a lawsuit accusing Johnson & Johnson of launching a “false advertising campaign” that uses flawed data to wrongfully promote its rival drug as a more effective treatment. (Silverman, 2/23) Chicago Tribune: AbbVie Plans To Build Two New Manufacuturing Facilities https://www.chicagotribune.com/2026/02/23/abbvie-new-manufacturing-facilities/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9_tAiJi3bZqRuMXf_dTsYhasGOTPo4fkqT6ZuUuxDq38n4jlR5bBgOrQ9Ih7fdysvv0ldv7CJ6nNCxluoL6muaAMvSzA&_hsmi=405257711&utm_content=405257711&utm_source=hs_email Biopharmaceutical company AbbVie plans to spend $380 million building two new manufacturing facilities in North Chicago — a rare example of a project that’s in line with initiatives by the administrations of Gov. JB Pritzker and President Donald Trump. (Schencker, 2/23) The Wall Street Journal: Merck Revamps Pharmaceutical Unit, Creating Separate Cancer Business https://www.wsj.com/health/pharma/merck-creates-separate-cancer-business-as-sales-pressure-looms-2d6b1b65?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--urs7S0Gdbj-80rhX2xEzZtg3NqSV7VJWRTcCrxy3F0ibUn1Y1HEzpsWXaZDhB7VDfp2Jz4mnr05FQIr2viEu80lSB7w&_hsmi=405257711&utm_content=405257711&utm_source=hs_email Merck is shaking up the leadership of its main pharmaceutical unit as the U.S. drugmaker braces for sales pressure later this decade. The Rahway, N.J.-based company said Monday it will split its human-health business into two divisions. One will house its cancer drugs, including the blockbuster Keytruda. The immunotherapy accounts for nearly half of total Merck sales but is due to lose U.S. patent protection in 2028, exposing it to lower-cost copycat competition. (Loftus, 2/23) Bloomberg: Pfizer Nabs China Obesity Drug Rights In $495 Million Deal https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-02-24/pfizer-secures-china-rights-to-obesity-drug-in-495-million-deal?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8SHihiLhwUEc1FnseWA22vTuzkR-FIEqMtUsKsA8-U4VNylnCufTgUg_6jvUdryWuio3AZxqb8FmCab_kzGr1LGnelBQ&_hsmi=405257711&utm_content=405257711&utm_source=hs_email Pfizer Inc. has acquired exclusive rights to commercialize an obesity therapy in China, strengthening its push into the fast-growing weight loss market. The American drugmaker struck a deal with local startup, Hangzhou Sciwind Bioscience Co., for ecnoglutide, a drug recently approved in China for diabetes and is currently under regulatory review for obesity, according to a statement on WeChat. (Tong, 2/24) The Hill: Diabetes Drug Mounjaro Linked To Reduced Alcohol Intake: Study https://thehill.com/policy/healthcare/5751372-tirzepatide-mounjaro-alcohol-study/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--PSBgRVL-adts_sIzoEEguHhiY4BgJVaVD8QRcZivbZe1Za4Rm4DpYSjnal7tDcn7NWa1xZ_MYHNmCYrB4sNiDsmQTIA&_hsmi=405257711&utm_content=405257711&utm_source=hs_email An ingredient in the prescription diabetes drug Mounjaro was found to reduce alcohol intake in rodents, according to a recent study. In the study, published in early January in the medical journal eBioMedicine, researchers in Sweden, South Carolina and Brazil looked at how the ingredient, tirzepatide, affected rodents. The researchers found that alcohol’s “rewarding properties” were lessened by the ingredient and that behaviors including the voluntary consumption of alcohol and binge drinking dropped. (Suter, 2/23) MedPage Today: Breakable Mechanical Heart Valves Eyed For Future Intervention https://www.medpagetoday.com/cardiology/interventionalcardiology/120008?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_GPgNpeJ9-5Jzu43N_Du-BS4TIalJzbvMKLZSLPO2cOI6iK5OBDSZncx3z0_nH1YLqvbNz46wePv_2UziT3rWb7w04Mg&_hsmi=405257711&utm_content=405257711&utm_source=hs_email Failed mechanical heart valves could get a new life with device fracture and subsequent valve-in-valve therapy, research suggested. Contemporary mechanical valve leaflets were successfully fractured using standard angioplasty balloons in controlled lab experiments, leaving the intact valve rings unobstructed and available for possible transcatheter heart valve implantation -- which has implications for people with dysfunctional mechanical heart valves, reported Paulina Jankowska, MD, of University Hospital Heart Center Brandenburg in Neuruppin, Germany, and colleagues. (Lou, 2/23)

THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION +++++

THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION Stat: Ralph Abraham, No. 2 Official At CDC, Abruptly Steps Down https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/23/ralph-abraham-cdc-resigns/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--DdAOaG-EfcXWUbteHN1i15f6JTfRDORCKhFQTfQ9hNSUCnzd49wPCAWI-RhxJOgkhAILZwAlEf4f4JEE4e9bVjkQwaA&_hsmi=405257711&utm_content=405257711&utm_source=hs_email The drama and chaos surrounding the leadership of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have taken another twist, with the announcement Monday that the agency’s No. 2 official, Ralph Abraham, has resigned. (Branswell, 2/23) MedPage Today: FDA Proposes New Approval Pathway For Rare Disease Gene Therapy https://www.medpagetoday.com/publichealthpolicy/fdageneral/120010?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_ZEmuYM-4GWdG4bSTOdbV1ED_EGT2_P6AxfKRg1zyFxkI_fwThPGfov5YsGpR53eXkYWQ4Vp_Fe4qXXzh3xT6_Eb2unw&_hsmi=405257711&utm_content=405257711&utm_source=hs_email The FDA on Monday unveiled draft guidance for a new "plausible mechanism" approval pathway for ultra-rare disease treatments. "What is a 'plausible mechanism' pathway? It's common sense," FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, MD, MPH, said at a press conference at HHS headquarters. "For the first time, the FDA is issuing guidance giving drug developers of ultra-rare disease therapies a path to accelerated or traditional approval based on the experience of individuals." (Frieden, 2/23) Politico: RFK Jr. Says We Need More Herbicide Production, Stunning His Followers https://www.politico.com/news/2026/02/23/rfk-jr-s-endorsement-of-trumps-plan-to-boost-u-s-herbicide-production-threatens-maga-maha-alliance-00793648?utm_campaign=KHN:+First+Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--oQPBetyv65qj5cWWwbhq5bxBVYaPpCHupiHQvqH7z6KMwg0OzNbW-lc8zhDFZk1N1clE_D3pRBaaMOtuSXyAVNd30xQ&_hsmi=405257711&utm_content=405257711&utm_source=hs_email Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s decision to endorse increased production of a chemical herbicide he has previously called a carcinogen has sparked a furious reaction among his followers and stressed the MAGA-MAHA alliance. The health secretary explained in a post to X on Sunday night he was backing a directive from President Donald Trump to boost manufacturing of agricultural chemicals he says “put Americans at risk” in order to reduce dependence on them from “adversarial nations,” alarming supporters of his Make America Healthy Again movement. (Reader, Burns and Brown, 2/23) Becker's Hospital Review: AHA Urges HHS To Align AI Rules With Existing Healthcare Regulations https://www.beckershospitalreview.com/healthcare-information-technology/ai/aha-urges-hhs-to-align-ai-rules-with-existing-healthcare-regulations/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_Judqe-xQpGC8Rs4zTwhk7jCt42pQTBS8gylrv_SKR7_asNDH8sXRHLdnyEZqiYFQT4j2SiQPZY-EGIVaqZ6o71WwV3A&_hsmi=405257711&utm_content=405257711&utm_source=hs_email The American Hospital Association is calling on federal health officials to reduce regulatory barriers and ensure clinician oversight as artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into clinical care. In a Feb. 23 letter to the Department of Health and Human Services, the AHA outlined recommendations in response to the agency’s request for information on accelerating AI adoption in healthcare. (Diaz, 2/23) The New York Times: Trump, Bruised And Unpopular, Turns To State Of The Union For A Reset https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/24/us/politics/trump-popularity-agenda-state-of-the-union.html?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8bB9kL1mtYzKrrcnTKWGm33ZcflCWyW4tpa8glo6QSEILVyVc4yvbYcOix61sz_aQvibtGqsIsVmfl8rWJW6nVcNYd8A&_hsmi=405257711&utm_content=405257711&utm_source=hs_email This year, a substantial number of Democrats are planning to boycott the speech and attend an alternative event, a rally called the “People’s State of the Union,” which will take place on the National Mall near the Capitol. Representative Hakeem Jeffries, Democrat of New York and the minority leader, has encouraged members to either sit silently through the speech or boycott it altogether, rather than attend and create distractions in the House chamber. Such protests potentially risk alienating swing voters ahead of the midterms. (Broadwater, 2/24)

Hospitals Fighting Measles Confront a Challenge: Few Doctors Have Seen It Before By Andrew Jones February 24, 2026

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/measles-outbreak-cdc-carolina-sc-nc-vaccines/ The virus exposed at least 26 other people in the hospital that January day, federal investigators determined. Health inspectors for CMS investigated the measles infections and other failures in care and concluded that the twins’ symptoms should have triggered an isolation procedure for which Mission Hospital staffers had trained seven months earlier. CMS designated Mission in “Immediate Jeopardy” for the exposures and other unrelated issues, one of the most severe sanctions a hospital can face, threatening to pull federal funding unless it remedied the problems.

‘The Antidote to Corporatization of Medicine’: Medscape Self-Employed Physicians Report 2025 Jon McKenna | +++ +++ +...

‘The Antidote to Corporatization of Medicine’: Medscape Self-Employed Physicians Report 2025 Jon McKenna | https://www.medscape.com/slideshow/Self-Employed-Physicians-Report-2025-6018776?ecd=mkm_ret_260223_mscpmrk_top-content_etid8128494&uac=148436CN&impID=8128494 Medscape Physicians Evaluate Telemedicine Report 2025: Where the Technology Goes From Here Jon McKenna https://www.medscape.com/slideshow/Telemedicine-Report-2025-6018761?ecd=mkm_ret_260223_mscpmrk_top-content_etid8128494&uac=148436CN&impID=8128494 An 'Imperative' to Organize?: Medscape Residents and Unions Report 2025 Jon McKenna | https://www.medscape.com/slideshow/Medscape-Residents-and-Unions-Report-2025-6018721?ecd=mkm_ret_260223_mscpmrk_top-content_etid8128494&uac=148436CN&impID=8128494 Medscape Physical Security in Medical Workplaces Report 2026: Is It Thorough Enough to Suit Physicians? Jon McKenna | https://www.medscape.com/slideshow/2026-Security-Medical-Workplaces-%206018979?ecd=mkm_ret_260223_mscpmrk_top-content_etid8128494&uac=148436CN&impID=8128494 Big Raises Become Less Commonplace: Medscape APRN Compensation Report 2025 Jon McKenna | https://www.medscape.com/slideshow/2025-APRN-compensation-6018790?ecd=mkm_ret_260223_mscpmrk_top-content_etid8128494&uac=148436CN&impID=8128494 13 Doctors Celebrate Their Mentors Jennifer Nelson | https://www.medscape.com/slideshow/Doctors-Mentors-6019103?ecd=mkm_ret_260223_mscpmrk_top-content_etid8128494&uac=148436CN&impID=8128494 Medscape Turning to Foreign-Trained Physicians Report 2026 Most doctors practicing in the US see physicians who were educated or trained in another country as a solution to doctor shortages here, especially in rural areas. Medscape Features Slideshows, February 20, 2026 https://www.medscape.com/index/list_12363_0?ecd=mkm_ret_260223_mscpmrk_top-content_etid8128494&uac=148436CN&impID=8128494

Considerations for the use of the Plausible Mechanism Framework to Develop Individualized Therapies that Target Specific Genetic Conditions with Known Biological Cause February 2026

https://www.fda.gov/regulatory-information/search-fda-guidance-documents/considerations-use-plausible-mechanism-framework-develop-individualized-therapies-target-specific?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

Deepfakes raise profound ethical questions in science Ankit Singh | AZO Robotics | February 23, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/23/deepfakes-raise-profound-ethical-questions-in-science/ Much of the public concern around deepfakes has focused on abuse, particularly non-consensual intimate imagery, political misinformation, and the erosion of trust in audio-visual evidence. These issues are real and can have serious implications.

‘We were lied to’: Will Trump’s order to increase the domestic supply of the weedkiller glyphosate split MAHA? Hiroko Tabuchi, Sheryl Gay Stolberg | New York Times | February 23, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/23/we-were-lied-to-will-trumps-order-to-increase-the-domestic-supply-of-the-weedkiller-glyphosate-split-maha/ [T]he executive order Mr. Trump issued February 17 to increase domestic production of glyphosate — a widely used weedkiller and possible carcinogen that has been the target of thousands of lawsuits, including one brought by Mr. Kennedy — stunned and infuriated the activists.

Tracking U.S. vaccine policy—Mid-February 2026 Izzy Brandstetter Figueroa, Jess Steier | February 23, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/23/tracking-u-s-vaccine-policy-mid-february-2026/?mc_cid=7860aa0fbd&mc_eid=b73600b7ac

Epidemiology and risk factors of malaria in Cabo Verde, 2015–2023, in the elimination era Graça Maria Carvalho Mendes Moniz* [1] , António Lima Moreira [2] , Adilson José DePina [3]

https://www.academia.edu/academia-global-and-public-health/1/1/10.20935/AcadPHealth8078 Introduction: Cabo Verde was certified as malaria-free by the World Health Organization (WHO) in January 2024, becoming the fourth African nation to achieve this status. This study examines the epidemiological characteristics and associated factors of malaria cases in Cabo Verde from 2015 to 2023 to inform sustainable prevention strategies. Materials and methods: A retrospective, cross-sectional analysis was conducted using national surveillance data from 706 confirmed cases of malaria. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression were employed to identify factors associated with autochthonous versus imported cases. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS v29.0.1.0. Results: Most cases (74.5%) occurred in males, with the highest incidence among individuals aged 20–54 years. The municipality of Praia accounted for 98.5% of autochthonous cases and 55% of imported cases. Fever (52.7%), headache (36.4%), and myalgia (20.4%) were the most common symptoms. Plasmodium falciparum caused all autochthonous infections, while imported cases included P. vivax, P. ovale, P. malariae, and mixed infections. Logistic regression identified fever (OR = 2.90; 95% CI: 1.24–6.78) and treatment with artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) plus primaquine (OR = 7.72; 95% CI: 1.12–53.29) as significant predictors of autochthonous cases. Chills were associated with imported cases (OR = 0.15; 95% CI: 0.07–0.29). Conclusions: Despite achieving malaria-free status, Cabo Verde remains vulnerable to imported cases due to its connectivity with endemic regions and receptivity level. Enhanced fever surveillance, targeted screening of travelers, and sustained vector control are critical to preventing reintroduction. https://www.academia.edu/journals/academia-global-and-public-health/articles?source=journal-top-nav

Morning Briefing: Today's News Summaries Monday, Feb 23 2026 UPDATED 9:11 AM +++ +++ +

Morning Briefing: Today's News Summaries Monday, Feb 23 2026 UPDATED 9:11 AM High Court's Tariff Ruling Likely Won't Affect Deals Struck With Drugmakers The Trump administration may impose sector-specific tariffs if pharmaceutical companies stray from most-favored-nation pricing for prescriptions, Managed Healthcare Executive reported. The administration is also looking at other statutes that would allow the use of tariffs to further its policy priorities. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/high-courts-tariff-ruling-likely-wont-affect-deals-struck-with-drugmakers/ Trump's EPA Supports Biden Admin's 10-Year Deadline To Replace Lead Pipes Meanwhile, President Donald Trump says he'll deploy a hospital ship to Greenland, but Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen says, “It’s a no thank you from here." Also in the news: Jay Bhattacharya, glyphosate, ICE, and more. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/trumps-epa-supports-biden-admins-10-year-deadline-to-replace-lead-pipes/ With Nearly 1,000 Infections, Measles Tally Is Outpacing 2025's Case Count More than half of the states have confirmed measles cases, with South Carolina, Utah, and Arizona experiencing widespread outbreaks. Meanwhile, five more children have died from the flu, which is still circulating at high levels across much of the country. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/with-nearly-1000-infections-measles-tally-is-outpacing-2025s-case-count/ Ransomware Attack Forces Closure Of All University Of Mississippi Clinics The extent of the attack is still being evaluated at one of the state’s largest health care providers. Roughly three dozen clinics around the state were forced to close, and elective procedures have been canceled. Officials are warning the shutdown could continue for days. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/ransomware-attack-forces-closure-of-all-university-of-mississippi-clinics/ New Mexico Will Investigate History Of Forced Sterilization Of Native Women Last week, legislators in New Mexico approved a measure to investigate the history and impact of forced and coerced sterilization of women of color in the state. Also in the news: abortion in Wyoming, elderly health care in California, and more. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/new-mexico-will-investigate-history-of-forced-sterilization-of-native-women/ Study Sheds Light On Why Women Are More Prone To Chronic Pain Than Men The study, published Friday in Science Immunology, suggests that men's immune systems have higher levels of cells with a mechanism that switches off pain signals to the brain. Plus: autism, heart disease in women, SUIDS in recalled sleepers, and more. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/study-sheds-light-on-why-women-are-more-prone-to-chronic-pain-than-men/ Viewpoints: Policies That Help Hospital Giants Need To Be Changed; Human Toll Of Trump’s Anti-Science Stance https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/viewpoints-policies-that-help-hospital-giants-need-to-be-changed-human-toll-of-trumps-anti-science-stance/

No one in health care should be called a ‘provider’ It’s a matter of ethics and professionalism

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/23/provider-ethical-objections-physician-acp/ By Lois Snyder SulmasyFeb. 23, 2026 Snyder Sulmasy is the director of the American College of Physicians Center for Ethics and Professionalism.

Lobbying firms with close ties to Trump draw pharma industry clients Pharma companies spent big on Trump-connected firms in the president’s first year

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/23/fda-lobbying-trump-connected-firms-cash-in/ By Daniel Payne and Lizzy LawrenceFeb. 23, 2026

Novo Nordisk’s next-gen obesity drug stumbles in comparison study The results add to the challenges facing the one-time leader in the weight loss market

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/23/novo-nordisk-cagrisema-fail-comparison-trial-zepbound-eli-lilly-obesity/ By Andrew JosephFeb. 23, 2026 Europe Correspondent

Health care reform might be a focus in midterms. For Congress, pursuing it will be an uphill climb Lowering costs would be politically popular, but Republicans would face a host of challenges

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/23/health-care-reform-midterms-trump/ By John WilkersonFeb. 23, 2026 Washington Correspondent

A provocative proposal asks the FDA to let some AI devices on the market without review Petition would shift the burden of evidence to post-market monitoring for six product types

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/23/harrisonai-fda-petition-exempt-ai-devices-premarket-review/ By Mario Aguilar and Katie PalmerFeb. 23, 2026

Gilead to buy Arcellx in nearly $8B deal The two companies were already partnered on a multiple myeloma CAR-T treatment

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/23/gilead-arcellx-acquisition-car-t-multiple-myeloma/ By Adam FeuersteinFeb. 23, 2026 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.

Pharma lobbyists focus on a surprising new target: the FDA The FDA has long been shielded from political influence, but that’s changing under Trump

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/23/fda-lobbying-efforts-grow-under-trump-administration/ By Daniel Payne and Lizzy LawrenceFeb. 23, 2026 Daniel Payne and Lizzy Lawrence interviewed lobbyists and government officials and reviewed corporate disclosures for this story.

MORE ON THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION +++ +++

MORE ON THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION AP: Trump Says He Will Send A Hospital Ship To Greenland But The Territory's Leader Says No Thanks https://apnews.com/article/greenland-trump-denmark-us-b2624bb6ed7d66de874e333779c505fe?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8ztMYqH4rDggma8lK2iK6QOY8ZntwD5Haq1874YZNglUTcjGA8iy422jN21O8guEDL8XCNi8KH84T-uOjnbqZlQZG6Ug&_hsmi=405016981&utm_content=405016981&utm_source=hs_email U.S. President Donald Trump said he would deploy a hospital ship to Greenland, alleging that many people there are sick and not receiving care, even though both of the U.S. Navy’s hospital ships are currently docked at a shipyard in Alabama. Trump’s announcement prompted a defense on Sunday of Denmark and Greenland’s health care system from their leaders, and it was the latest point of friction with the American leader who has frequently talked about seizing the massive Arctic territory. “It’s a no thank you from here,” said Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen. (Keaten and Toropin, 2/22) AP: Trump Administration Backs 10-Year Deadline To Replace Harmful Lead Pipes https://apnews.com/article/trump-lead-pipes-drinking-water-contamination-epa-6e1c7c45f1ba41ae69dfb13fa9510ef8?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--RKn52SSQI0yiqhfi_NZ6BdrLEy-PvhGNucy5rplt-FsWvB8M_Z5Vf6DPso54opPkhGMzUTFBQla1rxriWyEGstPE-xw&_hsmi=405016981&utm_content=405016981&utm_source=hs_email The Trump administration said Friday it backs a 10-year deadline for most cities and towns to replace their harmful lead pipes, giving notice that it will support a tough rule approved under the Biden administration to reduce lead in drinking water. The Environmental Protection Agency told a federal appeals court in Washington that it would defend the strongest overhaul of lead-in-water standards in three decades against a court challenge by a utility industry association. (Phillis, 2/21) Stat: Petition Pushes FDA To Exempt AI Devices From Premarket Review https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/23/harrisonai-fda-petition-exempt-ai-devices-premarket-review/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9GgB7kcohgZFRGaMFn2gGWHhWrYG0A9ieZjxAWejQxudBXql-KRKkhUpwF57W_KtjZjXb61Hi458l-eBpgG5yfP5m0uA&_hsmi=405016981&utm_content=405016981&utm_source=hs_email The Trump administration has promised to reduce the barriers between health artificial intelligence developers and patients. With a provocative new proposal, an AI company has offered regulators a way to let a broad swath of potentially risky AI devices flood the market. (Aguilar and Palmer, 2/23) Stat: Pharma Companies Turn To Trump-Connected Firms For FDA Lobbying https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/23/fda-lobbying-trump-connected-firms-cash-in/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8BrpOT0EyAFOdppAyfMm83NuuJ4gzTuw8o5-BLoNmkeg4OlBybrD_L-PtSFQ30_cpFfv9VimXpMTvQf76kRdKfwTvJOA&_hsmi=405016981&utm_content=405016981&utm_source=hs_email Pharmaceutical giants, seeing a wave of new risks and potential rewards in President Trump’s second term, are boosting their spending on lobbying firms with connections to the White House. (Payne and Lawrence, 2/23) Politico: RFK Jr.’s Billionaire Running Mate Is Making A Comedy About The Pandemic https://www.politico.com/news/2026/02/22/the-next-hollywood-hero-jay-bhattacharya-00791313?utm_campaign=KHN:+First+Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--80_4mNt9We1GVUQWjUaYI3EcB-SUhI6F8VmdEEozVdMnB1drWwxvyvnDUMMvmqQuD0xEeho3Aluv8hifENqdr7hLDMw&_hsmi=405016981&utm_content=405016981&utm_source=hs_email Covid contrarians tight with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. are pitching Hollywood on an unlikely leading man: National Institutes of Health Director Jay Bhattacharya. Nicole Shanahan, Kennedy’s running mate in the 2024 presidential campaign, is searching for investors to fund a movie that pokes fun at the pandemic response with a star based on Bhattacharya, who rose to prominence with his anti-lockdown manifesto and relentless tweets opposing social distancing. (Hooper, 2/22) Politico: Trump’s Law Is Crushing The Next Generation Of RFK Jr. Disciples https://www.politico.com/news/2026/02/23/rfk-naturopaths-student-loans-education-00790060?utm_campaign=KHN:+First+Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9D1ZxhFPxZP7GUJW9JdP5bMmXBHjUTNZNaUfZH0U5EvncI2BFHE-ZVV6pnCUsFc-PO3H1mzh29zCQfnBuDIX0cgNWBsA&_hsmi=405016981&utm_content=405016981&utm_source=hs_email Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has made it his Make America Healthy Again mission to challenge the medical establishment. President Donald Trump’s signature law, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, could entrench it. Kennedy sees America’s medical schools as bastions of groupthink that ignore the root causes of disease. But newly proposed caps on student loans that stem from the law would favor establishment institutions over nontraditional schools aligned with Kennedy’s view that Americans are sicker than ever because of what they eat, the chemicals they’re exposed to, and how little exercise they get. (Chu, 2/23)

What does today’s Supreme Court decision striking down tariffs mean for the pharmaceutical industry?

https://www.managedhealthcareexecutive.com/view/what-does-today-s-supreme-court-decision-striking-down-tariffs-mean-for-the-pharmaceutical-industry-?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8i7_yrYxYjAntDkSc4u_yZkMzM0s_kCmFL5zNFTnLjUlIQZJr-luwh8KoRfMTDK_uVtQklBLyvZI5u1-8xfCkEqDm1Rw&_hsmi=405016981&utm_content=405016981&utm_source=hs_email Managed Healthcare Executive: What Does The Supreme Court Decision Striking Down Tariffs Mean For The Pharmaceutical Industry? The Trump administration has other legal avenues to impose tariffs on pharmaceuticals despite the Supreme Court decision striking down many of the administration’s current tariffs. In a 6-3 decision, the court ruled that President Donald Trump did not have the authority to impose tariffs under a 1977 law, the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. But at a White House press conference, Trump said there were numerous other statutes and authorities that give the president the power to impose tariffs. He cited Sections 122 and 301 of the Trade Act of 1974; Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962; and Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930, commonly referred to as the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act. He also announced that he would impose a broad tariff of 10% under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, effectively replacing tariffs he imposed under the international emergency law that the court struck down. (Wehrwein, 2/21)

As More Americans Embrace Anxiety Treatment, MAHA Derides Medications By Phillip Reese February 23, 2026

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/anxiety-medications-ssris-prozac-zoloft-lexapro-maha-kennedy-rfk-jr/ KFF Health News: As More Americans Embrace Anxiety Treatment, MAHA Derides Medications After a grueling year of chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation to treat breast cancer, Sadia Zapp was anxious — not the manageable hum that had long been part of her life, but something deeper, more distracting. “Every little ache, like my knee hurts,” she said, made her worry that “this is the end of the road for me.” So Zapp, a 40-year-old communications director in New York, became one of millions of Americans to start taking an anxiety medication in recent years. For her, it was the serotonin-boosting drug Lexapro. (Reese, 2/23)

New Orleans Brings Back the House Call, Sending Nurses To Visit Newborns and Moms By Rosemary Westwood, WWNO February 23, 2026

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/new-orleans-postpartum-home-visits-newborn-maternal-health/ KFF Health News: New Orleans Brings Back The House Call, Sending Nurses To Visit Newborns And Moms When Lisa Bonfield gave birth to daughter Adele in late November, she was thrust into the new world of parenting, and faced an onslaught of challenges and skills to learn: breastfeeding, diapering, sleep routines, colic, crying, and all the little warning signs that something could be wrong with the baby. But unlike parents in most of the U.S., she had extra help that was once much more common: house calls. Adele was only a few weeks old when a registered nurse showed up at Bonfield’s door on Dec. 10 to check on them and offer hands-on help and advice. (Westwood, 2/23)

Shifting U.S. Vaccine Policy: Explaining Federal Actions and Exploring Public Opinion

Health Insurer Financial Performance in 2024 Authors: Jared Ortaliza, Jeannie Fuglesten Biniek, Elizabeth Hinton, Jada Raphael, Tricia Neuman, and Cynthia Cox Published: Feb 23, 2026

https://www.kff.org/medicare/health-insurer-financial-performance/?utm_campaign=KFF-Medicare&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_OEe4G7Vybfy8pe0-JR2Yn86TsayyUsAQokyUtCCIWzVZKtElGgVXtfSv_o9GQ5vR2CcDL12UOhS4k6Yi9aDtCB3L6Yw&_hsmi=405037724&utm_content=405037724&utm_source=hs_email KFF Examines Insurers’ Financial Performance in 2024 Across Four Markets An updated KFF analysis of trends in health insurers’ financial data shows that insurers’ gross margins per enrollee dipped slightly in 2024 across four markets, remaining highest in the Medicare Advantage market ($1,655), followed by the individual (non-group) market ($987), the fully insured group (employer) market ($846), and Medicaid managed care ($608). The Medicare Advantage market’s higher margins in part reflect the fact that enrollees are older and less healthy than those in other markets, with similar percentage margins translating into higher dollar amounts. The analysis also examines insurers’ medical-loss ratios across the four markets.

The Government’s Warning Shot? FDA and HHS Turn Up the Pressure on Compounding February 23, 2026 By Karla L. Palmer & Sara W. Koblitz —

https://www.thefdalawblog.com/2026/02/the-governments-warning-shot-fda-and-hhs-turn-up-the-pressure-on-compounding/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-governments-warning-shot-fda-and-hhs-turn-up-the-pressure-on-compounding Are compounders on notice? FDA may be coming for at least one of them, with a little help from its friends at the Justice Department. On the heels of the Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy® pill launch, Hims & Hers, in a headscratcher of a promotional move, doubled down on its own compounded semaglutide pill formulation. This likely was the spark that caused FDA’s Commissioner Marty Makary to tweet a not-so-subtle threat to compounders: FDA will take swift action against companies mass-marketing illegal copycat drugs, claiming they are similar to FDA-approved products.

Deepfakes Target NutriScore Co-Developer Serge Hergberg Christophe Gattuso Medscape Europe February 23, 2026

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/deepfakes-target-nutriscore-co-developer-serge-hergberg-2026a10005ik

How These Doctors Fight the Social Media Trust War Eric Spitznagel February 23, 2026

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/how-these-doctors-fight-social-media-trust-war-2026a10005j7

Nursing Strikes are Making Headlines; Can Picket Lines Improve Patient Care? Jodi Helmer February 20, 2026

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/nursing-strikes-are-making-headlines-can-picket-lines-2026a10005df?src=

Groups Clash Over State Malpractice Reforms Amid Rising Premiums, Doc Shortage Steph Weber February 20, 2026

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/groups-clash-over-state-malpractice-reforms-amid-rising-2026a10005e6?src=

Rethinking Risk Communication Before Pediatric Surgery Brittany Vargas February 20, 2026

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/rethinking-risk-communication-before-pediatric-surgery-2026a10005ey

Promoting Whole-Body Imaging: Not There Yet Arthur L. Caplan, PhD February 20, 2026

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/promoting-whole-body-imaging-not-there-yet-2026a100050i

The Strategic Collapse of Public Health Surveillance Sandra Adamson Fryhofer, MD February 20, 2026

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/strategic-collapse-public-health-surveillance-2026a100056f?ecd=wnl_edit_tpal_etid8124177&uac=148436CN&impID=8124177

Re-Centering Rights, Recovery, And Evidence In US Mental Health Policy Carlos A. Larrauri Michael Ashley Stein Vikram Patel February 17, 2026

https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/re-centering-rights-recovery-and-evidence-us-mental-health-policy On September 10, 2025, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released strategic priorities that represent a significant shift in federal mental health policy. The agency’s plan emphasizes “lasting [] recovery” through “gold-standard science” and promotes the expanded use of court-ordered psychiatric hospitalization (civil commitment) and court-ordered community treatment (assisted outpatient treatment or AOT) as mechanisms for “ending crime and disorder on America’s streets.”

Without The US, The World Health Organization Cannot Fulfill Its Mission Sam F. Halabi Lawrence O. Gostin February 17, 2026

https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/without-us-world-health-organization-cannot-fulfill-its-mission This article is the latest in the Health Affairs Forefront featured topic, “Health Policy at a Crossroads,” produced with the support of the Commonwealth Fund and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Articles in this topic offer timely analysis of regulatory, legislative, and judicial developments in health policy under the Trump-Vance Administration and the 119th Congress

The Uncontrolled Policy Experiment On Trans Children And Youth Arjee Javellana Restar Kristi Gamarel Don Operario February 17, 2026

https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/uncontrolled-policy-experiment-trans-children-and-youth On December 18, 2025, the Department of Health and Human Services and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services announced a new policy stating that hospitals providing gender-related hormonal or surgical interventions to trans minors will be barred from Medicare and Medicaid programs. This directive contradicts evidence-based recommendations for gender-affirming care endorsed by leading medical and health organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Medical Association, Endocrine Society, and American Psychological Association.

HHS Proposes Sweeping Changes For 2027 Marketplace Plans (Part 3) Katie Keith February 17, 2026

https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/hhs-proposes-sweeping-changes-2027-marketplace-plans-part-3 This article is the latest in the Health Affairs Forefront featured topic, “Health Policy at a Crossroads,” produced with the support of the Commonwealth Fund. Articles in this topic offer timely analysis of regulatory, legislative, and judicial developments in health policy under the Trump-Vance Administration and the 119th Congress. On February 9, 2026, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued a highly anticipated 577-page proposed Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters rule for 2027 that would, if finalized, make sweeping changes to marketplace coverage under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Comments are due on March 13. The rule was accompanied by a press release and fact sheet.

Misinformation about COVID-19 Vaccines Cost the United States $2 Billion from Hospitalizations in 2021

https://academic.oup.com/healthaffairsscholar/advance-article/doi/10.1093/haschl/qxag037/8487365?rss=1&login=false Misinformation is a major public health threat, as it leads to unnecessary illnesses, deaths, and costs to society. In 2021, misinformation was rampant for COVID-19 vaccines, where a large portion of the US population believed in vaccine misinformation and refused vaccination.

The Equity Catastrophe: How Securitized Financing Collapses Essential Care During Health Crises

https://academic.oup.com/healthaffairsscholar/advance-article/doi/10.1093/haschl/qxag042/8493231?rss=1&login=false Global health systems have demonstrated strong capacity for rapid outbreak containment. However, across recent health emergencies, including Ebola, COVID-19, and Mpox. These responses have repeatedly been associated with large-scale disruptions to routine essential health services and excess non-outbreak mortality, particularly among women and children. This paper examines how prevailing pandemic preparedness policies and financing arrangements can be redesigned to achieve effective outbreak containment while maintaining continuity of essential primary health care.

What Do We Really Know About Addressing Burnout Among Healthcare Workers? Maybe Less Than We Think

https://academic.oup.com/healthaffairsscholar/advance-article/doi/10.1093/haschl/qxag041/8494225?rss=1&login=false This policy inquiry responds to the question: Are commonly held assumptions about how to address healthcare workers’ burnout truly evidence-based? We think not. Our conclusion is informed by findings from a recently completed large systematic review commissioned by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). We highlight significant gaps in research regarding effective interventions directed at healthcare worker burnout. We include findings related to social support initiatives where limited credible evidence points to the potential for positive effects. We conclude that certainty about the effectiveness of intervention programs directed at burnout are elusive and there is a dire need for additional study using rigorous methods given the healthcare worker shortage we now face.

Aligning The MedPAC And CMS Estimates Of Coding Intensity: The Importance Of The Risk Model And Trend Michael E. Chernew Andy Johnson Paul B. Masi Karen Stockley

https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/aligning-medpac-and-cms-estimates-coding-intensity-importance-risk-model-and-trend The growth of the Medicare Advantage (MA) program to over half of eligible Medicare beneficiaries has made MA payment a salient part of Medicare policy discussions. Those discussions often focus on aspects of the risk adjustment system—which adjusts Medicare’s payments to plans based on enrollees’ recorded health conditions and demographic information. Because FFS claims are used to both calibrate the risk adjustment model and set MA benchmarks, greater coding intensity in MA, whether accurate or not, raises Medicare spending and thus beneficiaries’ Part B premiums, which are calculated to cover about 25 percent of Part B expenses.

The Twelve-Thousand-Dollar Question: Who Picks Up The Tab For Psychedelics? Vincent Joralemon February 19, 2026

https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/twelve-thousand-dollar-question-picks-up-tab-psychedelics In Oregon, locals can now walk into a state-licensed clinic and, for a fee, spend six hours on a supervised psilocybin (or magic mushrooms) trip for therapeutic purposes. Colorado and New Mexico are building similar programs. After decades of prohibition, psychedelic therapy is no longer a question of if—it’s a question of who can afford it.

Navigating Cell And Gene Therapy Risk In Medicaid: Lessons From The States William H. Shrank Bruce Greenstein Hannah Katch February 19, 2026

https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/navigating-cell-and-gene-therapy-risk-medicaid-lessons-states This article is part of a Health Affairs Forefront featured topic, Medicaid Financing. Which includes analysis, proposals, and commentary that will inform policies on the state and federal levels to address sustainability, efficiency, and access to care in Medicaid programs. Submissions will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the deadline. Health Affairs Forefront alone reviews all submissions then selects, edits, and publishes them only if they meet Forefront’s editorial standards. We are grateful to Arnold Ventures for supporting this work.

Innovation Stagnation: The Plight Of Dialysis Patients In The US Suzanne Watnick February 20, 2026

https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/innovation-stagnation-plight-dialysis-patients-us For a clinician-scientist, the modern dialysis unit should be an ideal research environment. Every year, nearly 500,000 Americans with kidney failure, better known as end-stage renal disease (ESRD), spend roughly 12 hours a week connected to machines that meticulously record multiple clinical variables. More than 80,000 additional Americans perform dialysis at home, either via peritoneal dialysis or home hemodialysis, also recording extensive data much of which are transmitted to their dialysis facility

Changes In Primary Care Physicians’ Electronic Health Record Patterns After They Reduced Clinical Visit Volume Gabe G. Weinreb, A. Jay Holmgren, Nate C. Apathy, David W. Bates, Bruce E. Landon, and Lisa S. Rotenstein

https://www.healthaffairs.org/doi/10.1377/hlthaff.2025.00734

What Excites Insiders About Health Care in 2026? Michael S. Gerber Renée M. Landers Martin Cauz Mark Speicher February 25, 2026

https://www.healthaffairs.org/do/10.1377/he20260122.74703/full/ Join Health Affairs on February 25 for an exclusive Insider virtual event featuring Insider members discussing what excites them about health care for 2026.

Podcast: Ghost Doctors in the Medicaid System Jane M. Zhu Rob Lott February 17, 2026

https://www.healthaffairs.org/do/10.1377/hp20260210.740759/full/

The US Health Spending Problem Is Still About Prices Irene Papanicolas Jonathan Cylus Luca Lorenzoni

https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/us-health-spending-problem-still-prices For more than two decades, debates about why US health care spending is so high have been shaped by the insight articulated by Gerard Anderson, Uwe Reinhardt and Peter Hussey: that the United States does not use more health care than other high-income countries but pays much higher prices for it. The original “It’s the Prices, Stupid” argument was fundamentally about price levels, not price growth. That central insight remains as true today as when it was first articulated: across services, drugs, and inputs, the United States consistently pays substantially higher prices than its peers for comparable services, drugs, and inputs.

Practice Pattern Changes After Adoption Of Diagnostic AI Tool Used In Conjunction With Cardiac Imaging Anna Zink, Michael E. Chernew, and Hannah T. Neprash

https://www.healthaffairs.org/doi/full/10.1377/hlthaff.2025.00929 In 2018, Medicare established coverage and reimbursement for its first service using artificial intelligence (AI): computed tomography (CT) fractional flow reserve (FFRCT). FFRCT is used in conjunction with cardiac imaging to diagnose coronary artery disease. Medicare reimbursement provides the opportunity to observe clinicians’ adoption of FFRCT and examine changes in utilization, spending, clinician productivity, and patient outcomes associated with its use. In this study, we exploited variation in the timing of FFRCT adoption by clinicians, quantifying changes in practice patterns before and after adoption compared with nonadopters. We found that use of the underlying coronary artery disease test required for FFRCT increased after the adoption of FFRCT, whereas invasive test use declined. On net, per patient diagnostic spending for coronary artery disease increased. We found no evidence that adopting FFRCT facilitated earlier diagnosis of coronary artery disease, although clinicians saw a larger share of patients with coronary artery disease after adoption, and clinician productivity (that is, total visit count) increased. After clinicians adopted FFRCT, we observed a decrease in rates of cardiac-related adverse events among their patients.

‘Ghost’ Physicians: More Than One-Quarter Of Physicians Enrolled In Medicaid Delivered No Care To Beneficiaries In 2021 Jane M. Zhu, Kirbee A. Johnston, Kyle Hart, Daniel Polsky, and K. John McConnell

https://www.healthaffairs.org/doi/full/10.1377/hlthaff.2025.00703

American College of Chest Physicians announces CCAPP designation for advanced practice providers

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20260219/American-College-of-Chest-Physicians-announces-CCAPP-designation-for-advanced-practice-providers.aspx The American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) is pleased to announce the first class of advanced practice providers (APPs) to earn the CHEST Critical Care Advanced Practice Provider (CCAPP) designation.

Should drug companies be advertising to consumers?

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20260220/Should-Drug-Companies-Be-Advertising-To-Consumers.aspx Tamar Abrams had a lousy couple of years in 2022 and '23. Both her parents died; a relationship ended; she retired from communications consulting. She moved from Arlington, Virginia, to Warren, Rhode Island, where she knew all of two people.

When it comes to health insurance, federal dollars support more than ACA plans

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20260220/When-it-comes-to-health-insurance-federal-dollars-support-more-than-ACAplans.aspx Subsidies. Love 'em or hate them, they dominated the news during the Affordable Care Act's sign-up season, and their reduction is now hitting many enrollees in the pocketbook.

How perceived deceased emotions in after‑death communication shape and transform grief

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20260220/How-perceived-deceased-emotions-in-aftere28091death-communication-shape-and-transform-grief.aspx An international study investigates spontaneous after-death communication to understand how participants perceive the emotional state of the deceased and how this perception influences their grieving process. The data show that these experiences are often described as transformative, with the potential to ease the sense of loss, strengthen hope, and redefine a person's relationship with death and with the one who has passed away.

Rising primary PCI rates do not correlate with lower heart attack mortality in Europe

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20260220/Rising-primary-PCI-rates-do-not-correlate-with-lower-heart-attack-mortality-in-Europe.aspx An increase in the number of percutaneous coronary interventions does not appear to have resulted in reduced mortality rates, according to results presented today at the EAPCI Summit 2026. The summit is a new event organised by the European Association of Percutaneous Cardiovascular Interventions (EAPCI), an association of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC).

Tropical cyclones linked to rise in drug-related deaths months after landfall

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20260220/Tropical-cyclones-linked-to-rise-in-drug-related-deaths-months-after-landfall.aspx Tropical cyclones, including hurricanes and tropical storms, are linked to increased rates of drug-related deaths up to three months after the storm passes-particularly in higher-income, White communities and among younger populations. The study of more than 30 years of data by researchers at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health points to one overlooked health impact of climate change, which is leading to more active and severe storms.

Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities face severe mental health disparities

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20260220/Adults-with-intellectual-and-developmental-disabilities-face-severe-mental-health-disparities.aspx Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, such as autism and Down syndrome, experience substantially higher rates of anxiety and depression than the general population of adults, researchers reported today in JAMA Network Open.  

Pesticides in the crosshairs as MAHA goes head to head with Republican establishment Rachel Frazin | The Hill | February 19, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/19/pesticides-in-the-crosshairs-as-maha-goes-head-to-head-with-republican-establishment/

Bayer agrees to pay $7.2 billion to settle thousands of Roundup suits, bringing total payout to more than $18 billion Natalie Sherman | BBC | February 19, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/19/bayer-agrees-to-pay-7-2-billion-to-settle-thousands-of-roundup-suits-bringing-total-payout-to-more-than-18-billion/

To challenge the vaccine infodemic, World Health Organization targets social media science Shreya Suri | Observer Voice | February 20, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/20/to-challenge-the-vaccine-infodemic-world-health-organization-targets-social-media-science/

Using scare tactics to challenge bogus cures makes people trust false remedies even more StudyFinds | February 20, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/20/using-scare-tactics-to-challenge-bogus-cures-makes-people-trust-false-remedies-even-more/

GM mushrooms taste like meat but use 70% less land than livestock Sonia Ramirez | EcoNews | February 20, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/20/gm-mushrooms-taste-like-meat-but-use-70-less-land-than-livestock/

9 top RFK, Jr. science controversies Brigid Kennedy | The Week | February 20, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/20/9-top-rfk-jr-science-controversies/

Viewpoint — Parts per billion, panic per bite: Healthy Florida First food hysteria and the war on modern agriculture Jon Entine, Kevin Folta | February 20, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/20/viewpoint-parts-per-billion-panic-per-bite-healthy-florida-first-food-hysteria-and-the-war-on-modern-agriculture/

FDA Moderna mRNA review flip-flop: A sledgehammer to vaccine—and a gift to anti-vaccine activists Henry Miller | February 19, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/19/fda-moderna-mrna-review-flip-flop-a-sledgehammer-to-vaccine-and-a-gift-to-anti-vaccine-activists/?mc_cid=04ec34055d&mc_eid=b73600b7ac

Sometimes, it would be unethical not to use AI in medicine When AI outperforms clinicians, its use shouldn’t be optional

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/20/ai-medical-ethics-doctors-unethical-not-use-ai/ By Morish Shah and Ami BhattFeb. 20, 2026 Shah is a master’s of precision health student at the University of Chicago. Bhatt is the chief innovation officer of the American College of Cardiology and inaugural chair of the FDA Digital Health Advisory Committee.

DOJ, Ohio attorney general accuse OhioHealth of driving up prices, crowding out competition Lawsuit seeks to prohibit hospital contracts that make health care more expensive

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/20/doj-ohio-antitrust-lawsuit-ohiohealth-acontracts/ By Tara BannowFeb. 20, 2026 Hospitals and Insurance Reporter

The federal directory of doctors and hospitals is coming this year CMS expects a ‘beta launch’ of the centralized list later in 2026 By Bob HermanFeb. 19, 2026 Business of Health Care Reporter

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/19/cms-national-provider-directory-launch-beta-test/

Nature Medicine to investigate study that found cancer treatment is better in morning Sleuths point out inconsistencies in study that found big difference in timing of immunotherapy

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/20/cancer-immunotherapy-morning-infusions-doubts-about-study/ By Angus ChenFeb. 20, 2026 Cancer Reporter

In first speech to her FDA staff, Høeg says she’ll scrutinize RSV shots and SSRIs in pregnancy Høeg also told staff to ‘question the norms’ and quoted the philosopher Ayn Rand

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/19/tracy-beth-hoeg-fda-speech-to-staff-ssris-in-pregnancy-rsv-shots/ By Lizzy LawrenceFeb. 19, 2026 FDA Reporter

Generic Drugs Forum (GDF) 2026 April 22 - 23, 2026

https://www.fda.gov/drugs/news-events-human-drugs/generic-drugs-forum-gdf-2026-04222026?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery Join the Small Business and Industry Assistance (SBIA) program for the annual Generic Drugs Forum two-day event designed to facilitate the development and approval of safe, effective, and high-quality generic medicines. This premier event brings together FDA subject matter experts from every aspect of the pre-ANDA and ANDA assessment programs, offering unparalleled insights and guidance.

Sometimes, it would be unethical not to use AI in medicine When AI outperforms clinicians, its use shouldn’t be optional

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/20/ai-medical-ethics-doctors-unethical-not-use-ai/ By Morish Shah and Ami BhattFeb. 20, 2026 Shah is a master’s of precision health student at the University of Chicago. Bhatt is the chief innovation officer of the American College of Cardiology and inaugural chair of the FDA Digital Health Advisory Committee.

Would you trust AI to renew your drug prescriptions? A closer look at one state’s partnership with startup Doctronic By Alex HoganFeb. 20, 2026 Senior Multimedia Producer

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/20/doctronic-ai-physician-chatbot-explored-alex-hogan-status-report/

Key study of Grail’s cancer detection test fails in setback for company While the test, called Galleri, showed some benefits, results are likely to fuel debate on technology

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/19/grail-cancer-test-galleri-results/ By Matthew Herper and Angus ChenFeb. 19, 2026

Biohackers and wellness influencers are pushing nicotine as part of their ‘stacks’ The stimulant that makes cigarettes so addictive is getting a reputational makeover

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/20/nicotine-wellness-startups-productivity-boost-legal-gray-area/ By Sarah ToddFeb. 20, 2026 Reporter, Commercial Determinants of Health

With federal research funding uncertain, states debate new science initiatives Shifting NIH policies are driving universities to look elsewhere for support By Anil OzaFeb. 20, 2026 General Assignment Reporter

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/20/states-fill-nih-funding-gap-trump-cuts/

Rare Disease Month Developments – Part 3: The Ugly (just kidding) – See You at Rare Disease Week February 20, 2026 By Sarah Wicks & Mark A. Tobolowsky —

https://www.thefdalawblog.com/2026/02/rare-disease-month-developments-part-3-the-ugly-just-kidding-see-you-at-rare-disease-week/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rare-disease-month-developments-part-3-the-ugly-just-kidding-see-you-at-rare-disease-week If Part 1 of our Rare Disease Month series highlighted The Good, and Part 2 addressed The Bad, Part 3 turns to The Ugly. And by “Ugly,’ we mean something entirely different – members of Hyman, Phelps & McNamara will be well represented at Rare Disease Week (RDW) on Capitol Hill next week, convened for the 15th consecutive year by the EveryLifeFoundation for Rare Diseases.

Intrauterine Devices (IUDs): Access and Coverage in the U.S. Published: Feb 19, 2026

https://www.kff.org/womens-health-policy/intrauterine-devices-iuds-access-for-women-in-the-u-s/

What Newly Released Medicaid Data Do and Don’t Tell Us Authors: Alice Burns and Robin Rudowitz Published: Feb 20, 2026

https://www.kff.org/medicaid/what-newly-released-medicaid-data-do-and-dont-tell-us/

Early Prenatal Care Use Falls, Gaps Widen for Women of Color, CDC Data Show Published: February 20, 2026

https://www.kff.org/quick-take/early-prenatal-care-use-falls-gaps-widen-for-women-of-color-cdc-data-show/

Shifting U.S. Vaccine Policy: Explaining Federal Actions and Exploring Public Opinion Event Date: Feb 19, 2026

https://www.kff.org/event/shifting-u-s-vaccine-policy-explaining-federal-actions-and-exploring-public-opinion/

Viewpoints: We Shouldn’t Need Donations To Access Health Care; Show Highlights The US Medical Debt Crisis

https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/viewpoints-we-shouldnt-need-donations-to-access-health-care-show-highlights-the-us-medical-debt-crisis/

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 Black paramedics, limb lengthening, mammograms, gene-editing, and more. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/longer-looks-interesting-reads-you-might-have-missed-252/

Influencers Push Cognitive, Health Benefits Of Nicotine In Image Makeover

Influencers Push Cognitive, Health Benefits Of Nicotine In Image Makeover Companies are now marketing “clean,” “modern” nicotine pouches with minimalist packaging, aimed at helping people “lock in” and achieve their goals. The catch is that most of these products have not been cleared by the FDA for sale in the U.S. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/influencers-push-cognitive-health-benefits-of-nicotine-in-image-makeover/

Wis. Bills To Expand Medicaid, Cancer Screenings Await Governor’s Signature

Wis. Bills To Expand Medicaid, Cancer Screenings Await Governor’s Signature The Medicaid measure would extend coverage for new moms up to a year after giving birth. The second bill requires insurance companies to cover extra cancer screenings for women with dense breast tissue. Democratic Gov. Tony Evers is expected to sign them next week, AP reported. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/wis-bills-to-expand-medicaid-cancer-screenings-await-governors-signature/

NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, Nurses Make Tentative Deal To End Walkout

NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, Nurses Make Tentative Deal To End Walkout The last set of holdouts picketing for better working conditions will vote on whether to ratify the agreement in the coming days. Other companies making headlines include EmblemHealth, Community Health Systems, UnitedHealthcare, Change Healthcare, Banner Health, and more. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/newyork-presbyterian-hospital-nurses-make-tentative-deal-to-end-walkout/

FDA’s Top Drug Regulator To Examine Safety Of SSRIs And RSV Monoclonals

FDA’s Top Drug Regulator To Examine Safety Of SSRIs And RSV Monoclonals Tracy Beth Høeg, the fifth director of the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research since last year, says she is prioritizing the health of women and babies. Meanwhile, ACIP is postponing its meeting set for next week. Plus, measles cases continue to spread. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/fdas-top-drug-regulator-to-examine-safety-of-ssris-and-rsv-monoclonals/

MAHA Supporters Reel As RFK Jr. Backs Trump’s Order To Produce Glyphosate

MAHA Supporters Reel As RFK Jr. Backs Trump’s Order To Produce Glyphosate Glyphosate is the most commonly used herbicide for a slew of U.S. crops and also the chemical in the weed killer Roundup, which is under fire in scores of lawsuits that allege it causes cancer. Ken Cook, president of the Environmental Working Group, called the move a “middle finger to every MAHA mom.” https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/maha-supporters-reel-as-rfk-jr-backs-trumps-order-to-produce-glyphosate/

Veteran Furor Prompts VA To Halt Rule Tying Disability Ratings To Treatment

Veteran Furor Prompts VA To Halt Rule Tying Disability Ratings To Treatment The new Department of Veterans Affairs rule would have factored in whether medication effectively treats an ailment in determining compensation for veterans with a disability. “Disabled veterans should never be forced to choose between following their doctor’s orders and protecting their earned benefits,” VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore said. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/veteran-furor-prompts-va-to-halt-rule-tying-disability-ratings-to-treatment/

Should Drug Companies Be Advertising to Consumers? By Paula Span February 20, 2026

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/direct-to-consumer-advertising-big-pharma-seniors/

When It Comes to Health Insurance, Federal Dollars Support More Than ACA Plans By Julie Appleby February 20, 2026

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/tax-breaks-health-insurance-federal-support-beyond-aca-plans-employer-exclusion/

Pesticides in the crosshairs as MAHA goes head to head with Republican establishment Rachel Frazin | The Hill | February 19, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/19/pesticides-in-the-crosshairs-as-maha-goes-head-to-head-with-republican-establishment/

FDA Moderna mRNA review flip-flop: A sledgehammer to vaccine—and a gift to anti-vaccine activists Henry Miller | February 19, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/19/fda-moderna-mrna-review-flip-flop-a-sledgehammer-to-vaccine-and-a-gift-to-anti-vaccine-activists/

Personal Finance Guru Faces Down an Insurance Denial Season 15, Episode 2 February 19, 2026

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/podcast/insurance-denial-prior-authorization-personal-finance-guru-crowdsourced-tips/

Morning Briefing: Today's News Summaries Thursday, Feb 19 2026 8:45 AM +++ +++ ++

Morning Briefing: Today's News Summaries Thursday, Feb 19 2026 8:45 AM NIH Director Bhattacharya Takes On Double Duty Leading CDC — For Now Jay Bhattacharya's acting role gives the Trump administration time to find a permanent replacement for ousted director Jim O'Neill. Plus, Moderna's mRNA flu vaccine application will be reviewed by the FDA after all. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/nih-director-bhattacharya-takes-on-double-duty-leading-cdc-for-now/ Trump's FDA To Require Only One Study For Drug Approvals, Not Two In changing the longtime standard, administration officials aim to speed up the approval process. Also in the news: domestic production of glyphosate, fluoride in drinking water, and more https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/trumps-fda-to-require-only-one-study-for-drug-approvals-not-two/ More Pregnant People Are Putting Off Prenatal Care, CDC Data Indicate Although nearly all racial and ethnic groups experienced a downward trend, minority groups had more of a decrease in early prenatal care. The report didn't touch on reasons for the shift in care, but doctors noted access has become challenging as maternity care deserts pop up across the nation. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/more-pregnant-people-are-putting-off-prenatal-care-cdc-data-indicate/ New National Specialty Care Coalition Will Focus On Rural Patient Access More than 20 health systems have joined forces to improve health care access in rural and underserved communities, Modern Healthcare reported. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/new-national-specialty-care-coalition-will-focus-on-rural-patient-access/ NYU Langone Ends Transgender Youth Health Program, To Dismay Of Many Months after the Trump administration proposed a withdrawal of federal funds from hospitals providing gender transition treatments to young people, NYU Langone has announced the end of its health program. Advocates are calling for the reinstatement of the program, while hoping the city and state will help fill gaps in care. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/nyu-langone-ends-transgender-youth-health-program-to-dismay-of-many/ Blood Tests May Give Patients A 'Clock' For Alzheimer’s Disease, Study Finds Although the findings are not yet accurate enough to predict a patient’s exact trajectory, The Washington Post reports that scientists created a model that could use blood test results to forecast the start of symptoms within a margin of three to four years. Other public health news is on social media, foodborne bacteria, and more. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/blood-tests-may-give-patients-a-clock-for-alzheimers-disease-study-finds/ Research Roundup: The Latest Science, Discoveries, And Breakthroughs https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/research-roundup-the-latest-science-discoveries-and-breakthroughs-56/ Viewpoints: ICE Is Causing A Health Crisis; FDA’s Reversal On Moderna Vaccine Can’t Undo The Damage https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/viewpoints-ice-is-causing-a-health-crisis-fdas-reversal-on-moderna-vaccine-cant-undo-the-damage/

Nevada Debuts Public Option Amid Tumultuous Federal Changes to Health Care By Jazmin Orozco Rodriguez February 19, 2026

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/nevada-public-option-health-insurance-aca-obamacare-enrollment/

The FDA’s Moderna pirouette is one more sign of chaos at the agency While the agency may get past the latest crisis, the volatility may be here to stay

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/18/moderna-fda-reversal-vinay-prasad/ By Matthew HerperFeb. 18, 2026 Senior Writer, Medicine, Editorial Director of Events

NIH Director Bhattacharya to lead CDC after O’Neill’s exit Bhattacharya has faced criticism from staff for not being involved in NIH’s operations

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/18/cdc-acting-director-jay-bhattacharya/ By Chelsea Cirruzzo and Anil OzaFeb. 18, 2026

New FDA guidance for antibiotic use in food-producing animals prompts criticism over antibiotic resistance Critics argue the effort fails to consider the impact on human health

https://www.statnews.com/pharmalot/2026/02/18/fda-livestock-guidance-antibiotic-resistance-cows-pigs-chickens/ By Ed SilvermanFeb. 18, 2026 Pharmalot Columnist, Senior Writer

Hims to buy Eucalyptus as it looks to expand globally The move could help the telehealth platform reach more customers as it faces regulatory scrutiny in the U.S.

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/19/hims-acquire-eucalyptus-telehealth-international/ By Andrew JosephFeb. 19, 2026 Europe Correspondent

5 key people to watch at HHS after Trump’s shake-up A former IT chief, a CDC director who wants to be called ‘doc,’ and more By Chelsea CirruzzoFeb. 19, 2026 Washington Correspondent

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/19/hhs-leadership-shuffle-five-top-officials-to-watch/

Upcoming meeting of federal vaccine panel may be postponed after HHS missed deadlines ACIP meetings have become closely watched signs of Trump administration’s intent

https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/18/cdc-vaccines-acip-meeting-may-be-postponed/?utm_campaign=morning_rounds&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8FlKaACI4b484SpzThsHDoF6wNuN7Kmike90X9MEg6KRJCTqAw169TdwFtARjtvW8_OvDual-1jiCTH4cisu2q_ZdSzQ&_hsmi=404443553&utm_content=404443553&utm_source=hs_email By Chelsea CirruzzoFeb. 18, 2026 Washington Correspondent

Breast Cancer Patients Living Longer Post-Medicaid Expansion Zoe Cunniffe February 18, 2026

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/breast-cancer-patients-living-longer-post-medicaid-expansion-2026a100053h

Cancer and HIV Vaccines Enter the Therapeutic Era Mónica M. Bernardo Medscape Europe February 19, 2026

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/cancer-and-hiv-vaccines-enter-therapeutic-era-2026a1000581

Home Screening Appeals to Women Facing Healthcare Barriers Edited by Katie Lennon February 19, 2026

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/home-screening-appeals-women-facing-healthcare-barriers-2026a100058f

March Kindly Jeffrey Benabio, MD, MBA February 18, 2026

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/march-kindly-2026a1000492

Microplastics in Humans: What the Science Really Says Marco Crescenzi, MD, PhD February 18, 2026

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/microplastics-humans-what-science-really-says-2026a100051p

FDA Changes Drug Trial Guidance: Experts Take Sides Christina Szalinski February 18, 2026

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/fda-changes-drug-trial-guidance-experts-take-sides-2026a100051r

New Hospital Price Data Benefit Insurers More Than Patients Darius Tahir February 18, 2026

https://www.medscape.com/s/viewarticle/new-hospital-price-data-benefit-insurers-more-than-patients-2026a100051t

Europe Targets Medicine Shortages, Supply Chain Gaps Jean-Bernard Gervais Medscape Europe February 18, 2026

Europe Targets Medicine Shortages, Supply Chain Gaps Jean-Bernard Gervais https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/europe-targets-medicine-shortages-supply-chain-gaps-2026a100052k Medscape Europe February 18, 2026

FDA’s Latest Nudge to Phase Out Petroleum-Derived Color Additives February 19, 2026 By Riëtte van Laack —

https://www.thefdalawblog.com/2026/02/fdas-latest-nudge-to-phase-out-petroleum-derived-color-additives/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=fdas-latest-nudge-to-phase-out-petroleum-derived-color-additives As we previously reported, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and FDA have highlighted the removal of petroleum-based synthetic dyes which remain approved for use in food as a focus of the MAHA campaign. These dyes include FD&C Green No. 3, FD&C Red No. 40, FD&C Yellow No. 5, FD&C Yellow No. 6, FD&C Blue No. 1, and FD&C Blue No. 2. Rather than rescinding the approvals for these petroleum-based synthetic dyes, a process that would involve time-consuming rulemaking and would require evidence that these color additives are unsafe, the Secretary and FDA have taken actions to “encourage” industry to voluntarily remove them from food products.

Percent of Children Born in 2021 Who Received the 3-Dose Hepatitis B Vaccine Series by Age 35 Months

https://www.kff.org/state-health-facts/

The Mexico City Policy: An Explainer Understanding the Trump Administration’s “Promoting Human Flourishing in Foreign Assistance” Policy Authors: Kellie Moss and Jennifer Kates Published: Feb 17, 2026

https://www.kff.org/global-health-policy/the-mexico-city-policy-an-explainer/

Global COVID-19 Tracker Published: Feb 17, 2026

https://www.kff.org/covid-19/global-covid-19-tracker/

Viewpoints: Lessons From The Dutch On Affordable Health Care; Vaccine Research In America Is In Crisis

https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/viewpoints-lessons-from-the-dutch-on-affordable-health-care-vaccine-research-in-america-is-in-crisis/

Danaher To Acquire Medical Tech Firm Masimo For Nearly $10 Billion

Danaher To Acquire Medical Tech Firm Masimo For Nearly $10 Billion Meanwhile, Prime Healthcare Foundation has acquired Central Maine Healthcare, and Tampa-based Moffitt Cancer Center plans an eastward expansion into Lakeland, Florida. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/danaher-to-acquire-medical-tech-firm-masimo-for-nearly-10-billion/

Proposed $7B Settlement Could Resolve Thousands Of Roundup Cancer Claims

Proposed $7B Settlement Could Resolve Thousands Of Roundup Cancer Claims The settlement would still need the court's approval. However, it would guarantee a payout for cancer patients and would protect Bayer from higher costs should the Supreme Court rule against it when the case goes in front of justices in April. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/proposed-7b-settlement-could-resolve-thousands-of-roundup-cancer-claims/

Study Links Air Pollution To Increased Risk Of Alzheimer’s, Dementia

Study Links Air Pollution To Increased Risk Of Alzheimer’s, Dementia Researchers examined data from more than 27.8 million Americans. There is no known cure for Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, which affects about 57 million people worldwide. Plus: Alzheimer's affects women at an increased rate to men. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/study-links-air-pollution-to-increased-risk-of-alzheimers-dementia/

Illinois Wipes Out More Than $1.1B In Medical Debt From 500,000 Residents

Illinois Wipes Out More Than $1.1B In Medical Debt From 500,000 Residents Illinois has spent about $10 million on the program so far, with each dollar spent equating to more than $100 of medical debt erased. Other news from around the nation comes out of Massachusetts, Wyoming, Florida, Connecticut, Hawaii, Michigan, and Maryland. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/illinois-wipes-out-more-than-1-1b-in-medical-debt-from-500000-residents/

CMS Will Cover Vaccines On Updated Schedule: ‘Go Get Your Measles Shot’

CMS Will Cover Vaccines On Updated Schedule: ‘Go Get Your Measles Shot’ Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Mehmet Oz is urging uptake of the MMR shot as the country's measles outbreak shows no signs of ending. He vowed that parents and patients will have access to inoculations and that the government will pick up the tab. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/cms-will-cover-vaccines-on-updated-schedule-go-get-your-measles-shot/

Military Rations Rife With Pesticides, Study Finds; US Floats ‘Real Food Pilot’

Military Rations Rife With Pesticides, Study Finds; US Floats ‘Real Food Pilot’ The Department of Health and Human Services has launched a program to improve meal quality at 20 military bases. Plus: Courts are receiving conflicting answers about the Trump administration's policy on pregnant detainees; the FDA no longer warns against junk autism treatments; and more. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/military-rations-rife-with-pesticides-study-finds-us-floats-real-food-pilot/

Editorial Biosecurity needs an expanded lens to remain effective The Lancet Planetary Health +++ +...

Global health burdens of plastics: a lifecycle assessment model from 2016 to 2040 Megan Deeney, MSca megan.deeney@lshtm.ac.uk ∙ Prof Lorie Hamelin, PhDb ∙ Claire Vialle, PhDc ∙ Prof Xiaoyu Yan, PhDd ∙ Rosemary Green, PhDa ∙ Joe Yates, MSca ∙ et al. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanplh/article/PIIS2542-5196(25)00284-0/fulltext?dgcid=hubspot_update_feature_updatealerts_lanplh&utm_campaign=update-lanplh&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_D2EvqGbwXo_6R3red7yKZ6SWfuYE8NrDGU40GGkZf4blo7XhB2Vw2C8nGuhfWCcnmMwiNWcK_6D-8VqIaSAfIirRueQ&_hsmi=404132375&utm_content=403599203&utm_source=hs_email Zero-emissions vehicle adoption and satellite-measured NO2 air pollution in California, USA, from 2019 to 2023: a longitudinal observational study Sandrah P Eckel, PhDa eckel@usc.edu ∙ Futu Chen, PhDa ∙ Sam J Silva, PhDa,b ∙ Daniel L Goldberg, PhDc ∙ Jill Johnston, PhDd ∙ Lawrence A Palinkas, PhDe ∙ et al. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanplh/article/PIIS2542-5196(25)00257-8/fulltext?dgcid=hubspot_update_feature_updatealerts_lanplh&utm_campaign=update-lanplh&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--9_5rULVDqZcfhts2o8wfkkL77zKJcHSr-dQY9i8YirdClHi_Pns0cACz-tztRYZL5Sb6zi1htcHa1KeeGH37Ek-zecA&_hsmi=404132375&utm_content=403599203&utm_source=hs_email Mortality and long-term exposure to source-specific PM2·5: evidence from a national cohort study in China Prof Xia Meng, PhDa,∗ ∙ Yuchang Zhou, PhDb,∗ ∙ Su Shi, MSa,∗ ∙ Prof Shuxiao Wang, PhDc ∙ Prof Maryam Zaid, PhDd ∙ Prof Hongliang Zhang, PhDe,† ∙ et al. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanplh/article/PIIS2542-5196(25)00278-5/fulltext?dgcid=hubspot_update_feature_updatealerts_lanplh&utm_campaign=update-lanplh&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_LBU1BZwsWPY4ppUnPpC6zFVbRvAERuHNwIVOpedh4Qi8p2fzBsCXFR52M2toBPJnsonZoiBxlAirxh-UQzoPVnVl0Qw&_hsmi=404132375&utm_content=403599203&utm_source=hs_email Editorial Biosecurity needs an expanded lens to remain effective The Lancet Planetary Health https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanplh/issue/vol10no1/PIIS2542-5196(26)X2001-0

SOCIAL MEDIA AND MENTAL HEALTH: AP: Mark Zuckerberg Set To Testify In Watershed Social Media Trial ++ ++

ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE Newsweek: Study Of 27.8M Americans May Have Revealed Direct Alzheimer’s Cause https://www.newsweek.com/health-alzheimers-disease-air-pollution-link-study-27m-americans-11534835?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_lf_T5Dqmo4nHsPH93N5Nfhokrj0LidJoB8o_jdf9Gdul9placuO2oxPC-M0X7VZjNa5Rysq60dglSbIQotiH0qlEfWg&_hsmi=404283782&utm_content=404283782&utm_source=hs_email Scientists have just found a direct link between air pollution and Alzheimer’s disease—suggesting that improving air quality could be an important way to prevent dementia and protect older adults. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, which affects about 57 million people worldwide, and there is currently no cure for it, making prevention is crucial. (Azzurra Volpe, 2/17) MedPage Today: Alzheimer's Sex Gap: Similar Biomarkers, But Faster Decline For Women https://www.medpagetoday.com/neurology/alzheimersdisease/119919?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--e_ReACwNRScZiJ7KTYQ2OXm2YrAqgOM8MnTt0o813MZtOhzayEAtSFDDZmeoW1y-A8cXK1DjFk6PL_0AtvVdjeZl6mA&_hsmi=404283782&utm_content=404283782&utm_source=hs_email Women had worse outcomes than men at similar levels of Alzheimer's disease pathology, data from a multi-cohort analysis suggested. (George, 2/17) SOCIAL MEDIA AND MENTAL HEALTH AP: Mark Zuckerberg Set To Testify In Watershed Social Media Trial https://apnews.com/article/mark-zuckerberg-trial-testimony-instagram-c8cbaa32ccbf4933ec3a7beebd6cf34b?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_raI6676fZItlqNCrdwlotrsruE9KH8ffp4uxLqq017NNHkD6K48FQQFPLy3U6wn8EYhVzcGa1zu4xxRbb6IkPn_IMbg&_hsmi=404283782&utm_content=404283782&utm_source=hs_email Mark Zuckerberg will testify in an unprecedented social media trial that questions whether Meta’s platforms deliberately addict and harm children. Meta’s CEO is expected to answer tough questions on Wednesday from attorneys representing a now 20-year-old woman identified by the initials KGM, who claims her early use of social media addicted her to the technology and exacerbated depression and suicidal thoughts. Meta Platforms and Google’s YouTube are the two remaining defendants in the case, which TikTok and Snap have settled. (Huamani and Ortutay, 2/18) The Baltimore Sun: Excessive Social Media Use Contributes To Loneliness https://www.baltimoresun.com/2026/02/18/how-to-reduce-loneliness/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--a298rgU3KMRBIIlVpW06vA_wLdh8A2vsDqGvflSRPDMRFAcO07pqOH0oX8p5KPeRlm3CF2o9O2Nt7rNxIxAOXu4WKRg&_hsmi=404283782&utm_content=404283782&utm_source=hs_email More than half of college students say they are lonely, but those who spend 16 to 20 hours a week on social media are most likely to feel isolated, research shows. (Hille, 2/18)