jueves, 12 de febrero de 2026
Conagra Must Pay $25M To Calif. Man Who Says Cooking Spray Ruined Lungs
Conagra Must Pay $25M To Calif. Man Who Says Cooking Spray Ruined Lungs
At issue was the use of diacetyl as a butter flavoring in Pam spray. Conagra, which says it removed the ingredient from its Pam formulation in 2009, will challenge the ruling.
https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/conagra-must-pay-25m-to-calif-man-who-says-cooking-spray-ruined-lungs/
Drug Users Are Changing How They Use Opioids, Harm-Reduction Workers Say
Drug Users Are Changing How They Use Opioids, Harm-Reduction Workers Say
Experts have noticed a sea change of more users preferring to smoke drugs, shifting away from injections. Also: A study looks at the risk factors that might drive food allergies; plant-based foods are linked to lower heart disease risk; and more.
https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/drug-users-are-changing-how-they-use-opioids-harm-reduction-workers-say/
Nurses Vote To End Strike At 4 Out Of 5 New York City Hospitals
Nurses Vote To End Strike At 4 Out Of 5 New York City Hospitals
After weeks on the picket, the New York State Nurses Association has struck tentative deals with Montefiore Medical Center, Mount Sinai Hospital, and two other medical centers in the Mount Sinai system. The deals include salary increases and modest improvements to nurse staffing levels. Nurses at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia hospital voted down the deal.
https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/nurses-vote-to-end-strike-at-4-out-of-5-new-york-city-hospitals/
Refusal To Review Moderna Flu Vaccine Application Came From FDA’s Prasad
Refusal To Review Moderna Flu Vaccine Application Came From FDA’s Prasad
A team of scientists was set to review the company's flu vaccine for people 50 and older, but the director of the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research quashed the application. Plus: The U.S. will participate in a Feb. 26 WHO meeting to discuss the composition of the 2026-27 flu vaccine.
https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/refusal-to-review-moderna-flu-vaccine-application-came-from-fdas-prasad/
Senate Bill Would Cement Nursing Home Staffing Rule Rebuffed By Trump
Senate Bill Would Cement Nursing Home Staffing Rule Rebuffed By Trump
The Democratic measure would mandate around-the-clock registered nurse staffing and set a care threshold for patients, Axios reported. Republicans are unlikely to support the measure. Plus, Congress also discussed pharmacy benefit managers.
https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/senate-bill-would-cement-nursing-home-staffing-rule-rebuffed-by-trump/
4 Democratic States Sue Over Trump’s Plan To Slash $600M In Health Grants
4 Democratic States Sue Over Trump’s Plan To Slash $600M In Health Grants
Attorneys general for California, Colorado, Illinois, and Minnesota say the cuts are in response to the states' opposition to President Donald Trump's immigration policies. Also: Dr. Mehmet Oz says Medicaid cuts won't hurt rural providers and patients because they weren't benefiting anyway.
https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/4-democratic-states-sue-over-trumps-plan-to-slash-600m-in-health-grants/
New KFF Poll Finds Trust in CDC Remains at Low Point Amid Falling Trust Among Democrats – These Findings and Others Included in New Polling Dashboard Irving Washington , Hagere Yilma , and Joel Luther
https://www.kff.org/health-information-trust/new-kff-poll-finds-trust-in-cdc-remains-at-low-point-amid-falling-trust-among-democrats-these-findings-and-others-included-in-new-polling-dashboard/
KFF’s latest Tracking Poll on Health Information and Trust finds that trust in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for reliable vaccine information remains at its lowest point since the COVID-19 pandemic began amid recent drops in trust among Democrats. These findings as well as data from dozens of past KFF polls are now available on KFF’s new Health Information and Trust Polling dashboard, which includes key insights and long-term trends from KFF’s polling on health information and trust over the years.
And new evidence finds no link between autism and prenatal use of acetaminophen, commonly known as Tylenol, but confusion may persist as officials continue to question the drug’s safety, illustrating how trust in different messengers can shape public perceptions despite scientific understanding.
Shifting U.S. Vaccine Policy: Explaining Federal Actions and Exploring Public Opinion
https://kff-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/3616575552030/WN_WNiA261gQw2jKpHD6ym7DQ?utm_campaign=KFF-Events&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9p3rEPx_P-B_WCMSQ8jEt3skr95ZR2yalR5zGnGuseYESUV6x6pqQsgYWUpBnKMsTx7J962bZkG3GNRImubpHATiG-Dw&_hsmi=403220061&utm_content=403220061&utm_source=hs_email#/registration
Shifting U.S. Vaccine Policy: Explaining Federal Actions and Exploring Public Opinion
The Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) is expected to further review childhood and adult vaccination schedules, potentially adding significant changes to those already made. To provide context, KFF will hold an hour-long virtual event at 12:00 p.m. ET on February 19, 2026, to discuss these developments and, based on recent KFF polling, the public’s views.
Join in to hear KFF experts share insights on what this shifting policy environment means for state governments, the U.S. public health system, and Americans.
Contact: Mikhaila Richards | 202.654.1328 | MRichards@kff.org
CMS Hosts Webinar on Innovation in Behavioral Health (IBH) Model Thursday, March 5, 2–3 p.m. ET
https://deloitte.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_5fb1BLd4RHSWbXmAh6VScg?utm_source=SAMHSA&utm_campaign=ed334f7d95-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2026_02_11_03_39&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-ed334f7d95-[LIST_EMAIL_ID]#/registration
CMS Hosts Webinar on Innovation in Behavioral Health (IBH) Model
Thursday, March 5, 2–3 p.m. ET
SAMHSA Encourages Those Interested in Learning More about the IBH Model to Attend This CMS Webinar
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Innovation Center is hosting a webinar on March 5 for the Innovation in Behavioral Health (IBH) Model’s Cohort II NOFO that will provide an in-depth review of the model’s Cohort II Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO).
The IBH Model for Cohort II is a seven-year, voluntary service delivery and payment model beginning in January 2027, focusing on advancing and promoting integrated care in behavioral health settings. The IBH Model will test the impact of a value-based payment model aligned across Medicaid and Medicare that supports an integrated care delivery framework in specialty behavioral health organizations and settings for adult Medicaid, Medicare, and dual-eligible beneficiaries with moderate to severe mental health conditions and/or substance use disorders.
The IBH NOFO webinar will provide important information on the model payment methodology, federal award details, and the application process. Attendees will also hear from Cohort I state awardees (Michigan, New York, and South Carolina) about their insights and experiences in the model and engage in a live question-and-answer segment with the model team. This webinar will provide an important opportunity to expand and deepen your understanding of the model and how it may be leveraged in your state to transform behavioral health for Medicaid beneficiaries, as well as for Medicare and dual-eligible beneficiaries for states that participate in the Medicare arm of the model.
Hospital Spending Accounted for 40% of the Growth in National Health Spending Between 2022 and 2024 Authors: Jamie Godwin, Zachary Levinson, and Tricia Neuman Published: Feb 11, 2026
https://www.kff.org/health-costs/hospital-spending-accounted-for-40-of-the-growth-in-national-health-spending-between-2022-and-2024/?utm_campaign=KFF%3A%20Health%20Costs&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--DNbD2OTFGedSdpjT_MfNti_5yVbjUxtqogTGs0a1NcXNlbwuJUzzdTYZ597qGkWIFmjwVGzWZjsiJmRkXBECA0Mwtlw&_hsmi=403219180&utm_content=403219180&utm_source=hs_email
KFF Examines Role of Hospital Spending in Growth of National Health Expenditures
Hospital spending accounts for nearly a third of the nation’s total health expenditures but accounted for an even larger share (40%) of the growth in spending between 2022 and 2024, a new KFF analysis finds.
Over the two-year period, hospital spending grew by $277 billion to reach $1.6 trillion in 2024, making it by far the largest category of spending in the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ National Healthcare Expenditure estimates. It grew more quickly (20%) than total health spending (15%) over the two-year period.
Morning Briefing: Today's News Summaries Wednesday, Feb 11 2026 +++ +++ +
Morning Briefing: Today's News Summaries
Wednesday, Feb 11 2026
FDA Rebuffs Moderna's Application For mRNA Flu Vaccine For Those 50 And Up
The Food and Drug Administration said Moderna's study was not “adequate and well-controlled.” The company says it will protest the decision. Separately, the American Medical Association will have its own vaccine safety review system.
https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/fda-rebuffs-modernas-application-for-mrna-flu-vaccine-for-those-50-and-up/
Bipartisan 'Break Up Big Medicine' Bill Aims To End Health Care Consolidation
The measure would force the separation of insurers, PBMs, and providers. “There’s no question that massive health care companies have created layers of complexity to jack up the price of everything," said Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., one of the bill's sponsors. "This bipartisan legislation is a massive step towards making health care affordable for every American,” added Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., the other sponsor.
https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/bipartisan-break-up-big-medicine-bill-aims-to-end-health-care-consolidation/
FDA Considers Banning BHA, An Additive In Many Processed Foods
In announcing its review of BHA — which is used in some breads, cereals, cookies, and other processed foods — the FDA pointed toward long-standing concerns that the additive may be carcinogenic. Also: a look at President Donald Trump’s nominee for surgeon general.
https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/fda-considers-banning-bha-an-additive-in-many-processed-foods/
American Academy Of Pediatrics Under Investigation Over Trans Youth Care
The AAP and the nonprofit World Professional Association of Transgender Health are being asked to turn over documents looking into whether they made false or unsubstantiated claims related to the marketing or advertising of pediatric gender dysphoria treatment, Bloomberg reported.
https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/american-academy-of-pediatrics-under-investigation-over-trans-youth-care/
Meta, TikTok, And Snap Agree To Teen Safety Ratings
The voluntary agreement comes amid pressure from lawmakers and a slew of lawsuits alleging that the social media giants have made their platforms addictive. Other news on mental health covers the benefits of exercise on mild depression, divergent criteria in Alzheimer’s diagnoses, and more.
https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/meta-tiktok-and-snap-agree-to-teen-safety-ratings/
Washington Case May Set Precedent For Addiction Harm-Reduction Services
A potentially landmark settlement in Lewis County, Washington, could set a precedent in federal law, applying the Americans with Disabilities Act to harm-reduction services, which aim to help drug users preserve their health without demanding abstinence. The ruling pointed out that denying access to syringe exchange would constitute a violation of the ADA.
https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/washington-case-may-set-precedent-for-addiction-harm-reduction-services/
Viewpoints: Social Security’s ‘Disabled Adult Child’ Cutoff At 22 Doesn’t Make Sense; How AI Can Help Psychologists
https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/viewpoints-social-securitys-disabled-adult-child-cutoff-at-22-doesnt-make-sense-how-ai-can-help-psychologists/
Exploratory Cancer-Related Diagnostic Excellence Measures
https://qualityindicators.ahrq.gov/tools/diagnostic_excellence#Cancer-Tab
The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) has released draft technical specifications for exploratory cancer-related diagnostic excellence measures. These draft measures were developed by teams sponsored by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation's Diagnostic Excellence Initiative at Brigham and Women's Hospital, University of Pennsylvania Health System, and Baylor College of Medicine, Houston. The measures are intended to support population-level diagnostic excellence surveillance and quality improvement by identifying patterns that may represent potential missed opportunities in the diagnostic process. An overview of these exploratory cancer-related diagnostic excellence measures is available in the Exploratory Cancer-Related Diagnostic Excellence Measures Overview (PDF File, 296 KB).
https://qualityindicators.ahrq.gov/Downloads/Resources/Toolkits/AHRQ_DX_DraftSpecs_Announcement.pdf
Release of Draft Technical Specifications for BETA Exploratory Cancer-Related Diagnostic Excellence Measures
The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) is pleased to announce the release of draft technical specifications for exploratory cancer-related diagnostic excellence measures under development as part of the AHRQ Quality Indicators (QI) Program. These exploratory measures are intended to support population-level surveillance and quality improvement by identifying patterns that may represent potential missed opportunities in the diagnostic process.
Highlights of this draft release include:
Measures designed to support diagnostic excellence and quality improvement at the health-system (or other healthcare-delivery organization) level to support internal quality improvement and diagnostic safety efforts
Focus on identifying patterns related to delayed followup, late-stage cancer diagnosis, and emergency presentations
Three key measure concepts:
Timely followup after cancer screening (including abnormal and negative results)
Late-stage cancer diagnosis
New cancer diagnosis following an acute presentation
Developed and refined through stakeholder input, public feedback, and testing across claims, EHR, and registry data
Intended for learning and improvement purposes only, not for reimbursement, public reporting, or accountability
The full draft technical specifications and supporting materials are available on the AHRQ Quality Indicators website. AHRQ anticipates revising these specifications based on additional testing and stakeholder feedback and plans to release additional diagnostic excellence measures in the future.
AHRQ welcomes feedback and questions at QIsupport@ahrq.hhs.gov.
miércoles, 11 de febrero de 2026
Consolidation and Integration in Health Care: What It Means for Patients, Payers, and Policy 18 feb 2026 02:00 p. m.
https://kff-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/3616575552030/WN__A8Y5s4KR1e0ERrVZa_kbQ?utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9nhJQkf1TbnFuH86G_7sRxmb_JD7jCeZTT0S5aqiCZ968XjMJk_iPLaS0Q-Nps8P3z28SuZ82Pl9u6ASpI_Yoc6ApUvQ&_hsmi=403045506&utm_content=403045506&utm_source=hs_email#/registration
News reports across the country trumpet major mergers and consolidation involving health insurers, physician practices, pharmacy benefits managers, hospitals and health systems, and other providers, including many that integrate different services under a single umbrella. The current wave of consolidation and integration has federal and state policy makers examining how it affects competition, prices, and overall costs.
At 12 p.m. ET on Wednesday, Feb. 18, three experts will join moderator Larry Levitt for an hour-long “Health Wonk Shop” discussion about health care consolidation and integration. During the event, panelists will discuss the motivations behind horizontal and vertical consolidation in health care, its potential to lower or raise costs, the implications for patients and payers, and how policy makers could respond.
Stat: FDA Refuses To Review Moderna's Flu Vaccine Application +++++
VACCINES
Stat: FDA Refuses To Review Moderna's Flu Vaccine Application
https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/10/fda-refuses-review-moderna-flu-vaccine-application/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-99YpXOqVdZyyhjZmYuKcPkxuI7PAoB9-6rE-8Yvw5C7FjJsz_aQcnmkbaZTXDKP-7iakJ07VSUqHYLr0yNPJFZ5UjziA&_hsmi=403116215&utm_content=403116215&utm_source=hs_email
The Food and Drug Administration refused to review Moderna’s application for a new influenza vaccine, the company said Tuesday, a surprise decision that could raise concerns about the agency’s posture toward drug companies and the Trump administration’s policies on vaccines. (Herper and Branswell, 2/10)
The Hill: AMA Launching Its Own Vaccine Safety, Effectiveness Review System
https://thehill.com/homenews/5731984-ama-rebukes-federal-vaccine/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8tFLkmq5fFEChKqbPYgVKN7XMZkm_-P24uU30qmmftjeIvJS9tBb47rOjgB8taGIp0oR5C84DfIh3aBKZfmzXWjEYhvw&_hsmi=403116215&utm_content=403116215&utm_source=hs_email
The American Medical Association (AMA) on Tuesday announced the launch of its own “evidence-based review process” of vaccine safety and efficacy for the next respiratory viral season, an apparent tacit rebuke of the federal government’s current regulations. The AMA’s evaluation process will be conducted in collaboration with the Vaccine Integrity Project at the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (CIDRAP) at the University of Minnesota. The review will focus on immunizations for flu, COVID-19 and RSV. (Choi, 2/10)
CIDRAP: Polls: 90% Of Americans Want Vaccine Access, For US To Be Global Science, Tech Leader
https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/childhood-vaccines/polls-90-americans-want-vaccine-access-us-be-global-science-tech-leader?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_lkG6_RYK3gikqtV8dTjYFOpBnNiTv8WRrZeGHgWZHTn4TXwUzHV5Cy-bnntD-_rYN0aehnHicqb8PvQOlrdNss29JVA&_hsmi=403116215&utm_content=403116215&utm_source=hs_email
Polls from the Partnership to Fight Infectious Disease and Research!America find strong support for vaccines and scientific and technologic advancement, regardless of political stripe, with 90% and 91% of Americans saying policymakers must ensure access to vaccines and cement the country’s global leadership in medical progress, respectively. (Van Beusekom, 2/10)
CIDRAP: Aluminum In Our Diets Far Exceeds That From Vaccines, Researchers Note
https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/public-health/aluminum-our-diets-far-exceeds-vaccines-researchers-note?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_bHx03-rhmkqBQ2NRghe4X7pJMIUy-PYnxS8Dsj_XqL4hEiwG9bSI7YVdzoVvpcBVGHjZ5WlViil-N7KvovKdLI9dT9A&_hsmi=403116215&utm_content=403116215&utm_source=hs_email
Throughout life, aluminum exposure from food far exceeds aluminum exposure from routine childhood vaccines, according to a review published yesterday in JAMA. Concerns about aluminum adjuvants in vaccines have endured for decades, despite many years of research spanning multiple countries that has not identified related health concerns. (Bergeson, 2/10)
CIDRAP: Amicus Brief Filed Against RFK Jr Attacks ‘Shared Clinical Decision-Making’
https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/childhood-vaccines/amicus-brief-filed-against-rfk-jr-attacks-shared-clinical-decision-making?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_YNFZ4EBXrnh_N0Wge1OlVg3Od1Ltuu-8RroiqxSUGtFK2AvjnTlVYHLbnQqMMDSenPwH8Edrse7_xZnmFntDMaR0o6A&_hsmi=403116215&utm_content=403116215&utm_source=hs_email
A group of public health organizations, lawyers, and scholars, has filed an amicus brief in the US District Court of Massachusetts supporting plaintiffs American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and others against defendant Robert F. Kennedy Jr., secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and warning that recent federal actions weakening routine childhood vaccination recommendations pose an urgent threat both for children and the public’s health. The AAP alleges in a lawsuit filed last year that recent changes to the routine childhood vaccine recommendation schedule in the United States violates the Administrative Procedure Act. (Soucheray, 2/10)
Listen to the Latest ‘KFF Health News Minute’ February 10, 2026
https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/listen-to-the-latest-kff-health-news-minute-2026/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_PXyedkrPJWZmdZBlsi3L8QjK3BPzO1v1lsHYGOyXi-XFra6vMzCrrmiJLqfZ3eDS8nBLusR-z1gHXm9J6OvOP8sc9cw&_hsmi=403116215&utm_content=403116215&utm_source=hs_email
KFF Health News: Listen To The Latest 'KFF Health News Minute'
Katheryn Houghton reads the week’s news: American farmers are being hit hard by the end of extra Obamacare subsidies, and hospitals are starting their own Medicare Advantage plans. (2/10)
New Medicaid Work Rules Likely To Hit Middle-Aged Adults Hard By Samantha Liss and Sam Whitehead February 11, 2026
https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/medicaid-work-requirements-middle-aged-adults-women/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--dfQ9zLAkK15RvKXE8izlit7epqcWwVGDLYcCQZkDSLLYt-_DmpEGElbVgDz3JxIY0xpvb7EGgeekkfyEJ7dmDdHE0uw&_hsmi=403116215&utm_content=403116215&utm_source=hs_email
KFF Health News: New Medicaid Work Rules Likely To Hit Middle-Aged Adults Hard
Lori Kelley’s deteriorating vision has made it hard for her to find steady work. The 59-year-old, who lives in Harrisburg, North Carolina, closed her nonprofit circus arts school last year because she could no longer see well enough to complete paperwork. She then worked making dough at a pizza shop for a bit. Currently, she sorts recyclable materials, including cans and bottles, at a local concert venue. It is her main source of income ― but the work isn’t year-round. (Liss and Whitehead, 2/11)
End of Enhanced Obamacare Subsidies Puts Tribal Health Lifeline at Risk By Katheryn Houghton and Jazmin Orozco Rodriguez February 11, 2026
https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/tribal-health-enhanced-obamacare-subsidies-funding-shortages/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--nmUqrqanYkgXlXQrdrnkqEXLFhl0QX3ijbP6s6LDVVPvMhVMZNy1X_LxF_lWJq6S9ZiHc8VnzUxGI8HsoM9fI6S706g&_hsmi=403116215&utm_content=403116215&utm_source=hs_email
KFF Health News: End Of Enhanced Obamacare Subsidies Puts Tribal Health Lifeline At Risk
Leonard Bighorn said his mother tried for two years to get help for severe stomach pain through the limited health services available near her home on the Fort Peck Reservation in northeastern Montana. After his mom finally saw a specialist in Glasgow, about an hour away, she was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer, Bighorn said. Now, 16 years after his mother’s death, Bighorn has access to regular screenings for cancer and other specialty care that she didn’t have, through a health insurance program the Fort Peck Tribes created in 2016. (Houghton and Orozco Rodriguez, 2/11)
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.youtube.com/live/fkZXiTjZ6nc
What is the iPLEDGE® REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy)?
https://ipledgeprogram.com/#Main
FDA Approves iPLEDGE REMS Modification
FDA approved modifications to the iPLEDGE Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) to minimize burden on patients, prescribers, and pharmacies while maintaining the safe use of isotretinoin.
The modifications approved include changes outlined in the November 2023 FDA notification to isotretinoin manufacturers. These modifications to the REMS will go into effect 180 days after the February 9, 2026 approval. Until that time, FDA continues to exercise enforcement discretion regarding pregnancy testing requirements as described in the Agency’s October 2023 update.
Prescribers must continue to complete the pre-treatment pregnancy tests in a medical setting prior to starting isotretinoin treatment.
Important changes for patients:
If permitted by a prescriber, patients may complete pregnancy tests outside of a medical setting (e.g. at-home pregnancy tests) during and after treatment. However, patients will need to continue to complete their pre-treatment pregnancy tests in a medical setting.
If a person who can get pregnant does not pick up their prescription within the 7-day window, a repeat pregnancy test may be done immediately without an additional waiting period.
Important changes for health care professionals who prescribe:
Prescribers may opt to allow patients to complete pregnancy tests outside of a medical setting (e.g. at-home pregnancy tests) during and after treatment. However, patients must continue to complete their pre-treatment pregnancy tests in a medical setting. Prescribers will need to establish processes and procedures to minimize misinterpretation and falsification of pregnancy tests completed by patients outside of a medical setting.
If a person who can get pregnant does not pick up their prescription within the 7-day window, a repeat pregnancy test may be done immediately without an additional waiting period. If the patient has not received their first dose of isotretinoin, the repeat pregnancy test must be done in a medical setting.
Patients who cannot get pregnant must be counseled at enrollment. Prescribers should reinforce counseling throughout the course of treatment; however, monthly documentation of counseling in the REMS for patients who cannot get pregnant is no longer required.
Important changes for pharmacies:
There is no longer a 30-day prescription window for patients who cannot get pregnant. Pharmacies may need to adapt their workflow practices to ensure that if a patient does not pick up the prescription, the authorization is reversed in the REMS and the prescription is returned to stock.
Clarifying language was added to the REMS to communicate that pharmacy staff training is required annually and records of the training completion should be maintained by the certified pharmacy’s authorized representative.
For complete information on the new iPLEDGE REMS requirements, please visit the iPLEDGE REMS website or contact the iPLEDGE REMS Contact Center at 866-495-0654.
iPLEDGE Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS)
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/ipledge-risk-evaluation-and-mitigation-strategy-rems?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
Examining the Potential Impact of Medicare’s New WISeR Model WISeR Expands the Use of Prior Authorization in Traditional Medicare at a Time of Increasing Scrutiny Authors: Alex Cottrill, Jeannie Fuglesten Biniek, Juliette Cubanski, Tricia Neuman, and Misha Segal Published: Feb 10, 2026
https://www.kff.org/medicare/examining-the-potential-impact-of-medicares-new-wiser-model/?utm_campaign=KFF-Medicare&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8wu5YS0QXFKI87WJrZi9O20OhMBvRL3nJHQjQef9h_DyZX89JNs1EY_O7DhpVTvP9PFtfTgufAOURD4RUFjfBP_6tfaQ&_hsmi=402967619&utm_content=402967619&utm_source=hs_email
KFF Examines a Trump Administration Initiative to Expand the Use of Prior Authorization in Medicare
A KFF analysis examines an initiative from the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Innovation (CMMI) to establish new prior authorization requirements in traditional Medicare, called the Wasteful and Inappropriate Service Reduction (WISeR) model.
Prior authorization, which is rare in traditional Medicare but widely used by insurers that offer Medicare Advantage plans and private commercial plans, aims to reduce wasteful or inappropriate utilization of health care services and the associated health care spending. But it also can lead to delays and denials of needed care, uncertainty for patients, and administrative costs and hassles for health care providers.
CMMI’s WISeR model, launched on January 1, tests the use of technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to review the appropriateness of select Medicare-covered services in six states over a six-year trial period. The new KFF analysis explores the model’s potential impact by examining recent spending and utilization trends in traditional Medicare for services selected for prior authorization review.
Findings suggest the impact of the model is likely to be modest in its first year. That is because the services targeted account for a small share of total Part B spending in traditional Medicare, and because the vast majority of service spending and growth the model aims to address is accounted for by a single service category (skin substitutes), which the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has simultaneously targeted with recent changes to payment policy.
Join us for NCSACW’s upcoming webinar - Examining Barriers and Solutions for Universal Screening in Prenatal Care Settings Wednesday, February 18, 2–3 p.m. (ET), 11 a.m.–12 p.m. (PT)
https://cffutures.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_7e8i7UHRRrGKcbQPLgPwPQ?utm_source=SAMHSA&utm_campaign=7db26e72e3-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2026_02_10_03_36&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_ee1c4b138c-7db26e72e3-[LIST_EMAIL_ID]#/registration
Universal screening remains a crucial first step in the process of identifying and supporting pregnant women who have substance use concerns. However, implementation remains inconsistent due to systemic and practical challenges.
Dr. Theresa Lemus, a nationally recognized expert in integrated health care, will share research-based insights during the webinar. Topics include:
Goals of screening and brief intervention
Common implementation challenges
Strategies to improve outcomes through cross-system collaboration
Dr. Lemus recently published an integrative review on barriers to universal screening in prenatal care. She will offer practical tools and approaches designed to help health care providers and cross-agency partners strengthen maternal and child health outcomes. The webinar also will cover strategies to enhance screening and to strengthen coordinated care for pregnant women and their families.
Join us as we engage national experts to learn more about:
The rationale for and benefits of universal screening for substance use in prenatal care
Common barriers to effective screening
The use of validated tools and resources to implement the UNCOPE screening instrument
Free NCSACW training resources that seek to: 1) improve screening protocols, and 2) understand the role health care providers play in Plans of Safe Care (POSC) for infants and families affected by substance use
Meet our presenter: Theresa Lemus, DNP, MBA, RN, LADC-S is a seasoned health care and counseling professional with over 30 years of experience spanning physical and behavioral health. Her career reflects a deep commitment to integrated care and whole-person wellness. She has served as a clinician, educator, and leader—contributing to policy, clinical practice, and population health initiatives. She is a registered nurse, licensed alcohol and drug counselor, and clinical supervisor.
Dietary Intake of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Serum Lipoproteins and Cardiovascular Events in the General Population
Dietary Intake of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Serum Lipoproteins and Cardiovascular Events in the General Population: The aim of this systematic review is to summarize the findings from interventional studies addressing the association between PUFA intake and lipid and lipoprotein outcomes, and interventional and observational studies addressing the association between PUFA intake and CV event outcomes.
Dietary Intake of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Serum Lipoproteins and Cardiovascular Events in the General Population
(Available for comment through March 6, 2026)
The aim of this systematic review is to summarize the findings from interventional studies addressing the association between polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) intake and lipid and lipoprotein outcomes, and interventional and observational studies addressing the association between PUFA intake and cardiovascular event outcomes.
ACI’s 22nd Annual Paragraph IV Disputes: Elevate Your 2026 Hatch-Waxman Strategy February 11, 2026
https://www.thefdalawblog.com/2026/02/acis-22nd-annual-paragraph-iv-disputes-elevate-your-2026-hatch-waxman-strategy/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=acis-22nd-annual-paragraph-iv-disputes-elevate-your-2026-hatch-waxman-strategy
The American Conference Institute’s (ACI’s) Annual Paragraph IV Disputes Conference is scheduled to take place from April 21-22, 2026 at The Times Center, New York, NY. Join the nation’s most respected forum for pharmaceutical patent litigation as it returns for its 22nd edition. This is the must-attend event where brand-name and generic drug stakeholders converge to shape litigation strategies, navigate regulatory shifts, and connect with the judiciary.
Editorial e69 Strengthening cardiovascular disease prevention in Europe The Lancet Public Health ++... ++ +
Commercialisation and care sufficiency: the privatisation of children's homes in England
Benjamin Goodair, DPhila b.goodair@lse.ac.uk ∙ François Schoenberger, PhDb,c ∙ Anders Bach-Mortensen, DPhil
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667(25)00279-8/fulltext?dgcid=hubspot_update_feature_updatealerts_lanpub&utm_campaign=update-lanpub&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_YG8ZT1eATJ00vI0qJIy7vbdSdBXpyiLzVPFkkTu8Uci_LF06rIyOZBKm0IFIJMV-rzZSLVWePomjDWGJvDlapqPuPBw&_hsmi=402955683&utm_content=402666425&utm_source=hs_email
Editorial
e69
Strengthening cardiovascular disease prevention in Europe
The Lancet Public Health
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/issue/vol11no2/PIIS2468-2667(26)X2001-1
Uptake and performance of self-collection offered through primary care to all eligible participants in a national cervical screening programme in Australia: a retrospective cohort study
Farhana Sultana, PhDa ∙ Megan Smith, PhDb ∙ Prof Marion Saville, MBChBc,d ∙ Prof Deborah Bateson, MB BSf ∙ Prof David Roder, DDScg ∙ Vivienne Milch, MHPolh,i ∙ et al.
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667(25)00304-4/fulltext?dgcid=hubspot_update_feature_updatealerts_lanpub&utm_campaign=update-lanpub&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9mVLdOpUrtgrzT65IUdydEK2dotTCDkVO0htibpyTnIqWY--2xAZ4XGaciXYCXnzpANgpL8oFCgFJLc2bcQUulwcKxFw&_hsmi=402955683&utm_content=402666425&utm_source=hs_email
The potential effect of a geographically focused intervention against tuberculosis in the USA: a simulation modelling study
Mathilda Regan, PhDa mathildaregan@hsph.harvard.edu ∙ Hening Cui, MSa ∙ Nicole A Swartwood, MSPHa ∙ Yunfei Li, ScDa ∙ Suzanne M Marks, MPHb ∙ Terrika Barham, PhDc ∙ Awal Khan, PhDb ∙ Carla A Winston, PhDb ∙ Prof Ted Cohen, DPHd ∙ Prof C Robert Horsburgh, Jr, MDe ∙ Prof Joshua A Salomon, PhDf ∙ Nicolas A Menzies, PhDa
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667(25)00306-8/fulltext?dgcid=hubspot_update_feature_updatealerts_lanpub&utm_campaign=update-lanpub&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8vho989B16Y0AkchQBtq93dgvsTVD8v39AcK1BZh2h8IrbADYIksli-g_PjNazYTsFooOG4D_XYD3p-zKhbWmJNCQt1Q&_hsmi=402955683&utm_content=402666425&utm_source=hs_email
The Lancet Summit: shaping the future of diabetes prevention
Nov 30–Dec 2, 2026 | Sitges, Spain
Abstracts invited for short talks and posters
Submit by Jun 12, 2026
martes, 10 de febrero de 2026
Morning Briefing: Today's News Summaries Tuesday, Feb 10 2026 8:57 AM +++ +++ + +
Morning Briefing: Today's News Summaries
Tuesday, Feb 10 2026 8:57 AM
CMS Planning To Revamp ACA In 2027
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services released a draft payment rule Monday in which it proposed repealing a requirement that federal exchanges and state-based exchanges on the federal platform offer standardized plan options, Modern Healthcare reported. The news report also said CMS wants to allow some non-network plans to attain qualified health plan status if they can prove they have a sufficient network. CMS also wants more access to catastrophic coverage.
https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/cms-planning-to-revamp-aca-in-2027/
CDC To Rescind $600M In Grants To 4 Blue States; California Takes Worst Hit
The other cuts are in Colorado, Illinois, and Minnesota. But nearly two-thirds of the funding is unspent money allocated to state and local public health departments in California, The New York Times reported.
https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/cdc-to-rescind-600m-in-grants-to-4-blue-states-california-takes-worst-hit/
As Kaiser Strike Gains Steam, New York Nurses Vote Whether To End Theirs
Grocery union pharmacists are showing up at pickets in support of the 34,000 nurses, health care professionals, and pharmacy and lab workers who walked off the job amid stalled contract talks between Kaiser Permanente and the United Food and Commercial Workers union. Also, the New York State Nurses Association has reached a tentative deal with New York hospitals to bring back nurses.
https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/as-kaiser-strike-gains-steam-new-york-nurses-vote-whether-to-end-theirs/
60 Kids Have Died From Flu So Far This Season; Most Weren't Fully Vaccinated
Meanwhile, influenza A activity is decreasing while influenza B is increasing, the CDC's FluView report shows. In other news, a study has found that long covid might be triggering Alzheimer's-like changes in the brain.
https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/60-kids-have-died-from-flu-so-far-this-season-most-werent-fully-vaccinated/
California Assembly OKs $90M Funding Bills For Planned Parenthood Clinics
The money is not earmarked for abortion procedures but would cover reproductive health care such as cervical cancer screenings. Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom must approve the package before funds can flow to clinics. More news is from Colorado, North Carolina, Missouri, Louisiana, and Michigan.
https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/california-assembly-oks-90m-funding-bills-for-planned-parenthood-clinics/
Since The '80s, Olympic Snow Sports Have Used Waxes With PFAS. No More.
This year marks the first winter Olympics without the use of fluorinated ski waxes, which increase speed. Also: self-quarantines among some athletes at the Games; a lack of child care and support for Olympian moms; and more.
https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/since-the-80s-olympic-snow-sports-have-used-waxes-with-pfas-no-more/
Novo Nordisk Files Patent Suit Against Hims & Hers Over Ozempic, Wegovy
https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/novo-nordisk-files-patent-suit-against-hims-hers-over-ozempic-wegovy/
The Wall Street Journal reports that what's at issue is sales of custom-made, or compounded, versions of weight loss drugs. Also: The FDA issued a warning letter to a compounding pharmacy owned by Hims & Hers over inspection issues, as well as warned Novo Nordisk that its Wegovy pill ad included “false or misleading” claims.
Viewpoints: HHS’ Addiction Initiative Might Be Short-Lived; Fewer Shots For Kids Is Bad News For Working Parents
https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/viewpoints-hhs-addiction-initiative-might-be-short-lived-fewer-shots-for-kids-is-bad-news-for-working-parents/
Three PBMs dominate retail prescriptions in Medicare Part D and Medicaid markets
https://www.news-medical.net/news/20260210/Three-PBMs-dominate-retail-prescriptions-in-Medicare-Part-D-and-Medicaid-markets.aspx
Just three pharmacy benefit managers (PBM) dominate retail prescriptions in Medicare Part D and Medicaid managed care across much of the country, with markets in in nearly every state considered highly concentrated for at least one program, according to a new study from the USC Schaeffer Center for Health Policy & Economics.
Editorial HPV vaccine for adolescents in China: what is the next step? The Lancet Regional Health – Western Pacific ++... ++
Re-imagining Global Health: perspectives from the next generation in the Pacific region
S. Boladuaduaa,b ∙ F. Langridgea ∙ R. Qinc ∙ R. Ng Shiud ∙ J. McCoold ∙ J. Mania,b ∙ et al.
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanwpc/article/PIIS2666-6065(25)00326-8/fulltext?dgcid=hubspot_update_feature_updatealerts_lanwpc&utm_campaign=update-lanwpc&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-92XKZnJytpQkEucX-M5_iV27OawGDw4HVxaSkcF2GPCKw_SzwBV66L4gQ3Fg5jRWwHzKK_ppBOk4Kj__kPy3Qr_MAxBA&_hsmi=402601768&utm_content=402363937&utm_source=hs_email
Editorial
HPV vaccine for adolescents in China: what is the next step?
The Lancet Regional Health – Western Pacific
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanwpc/issue/vol66nonull/PIIS2666-6065(25)X0014-6
Towards equitable cancer outcomes for rural and remote communities: reflections, lessons and recommendations
Anna Ugaldea a.ugalde@deakin.edu.au ∙ Hannah Jongebloeda h.jongebloed@deakin.edu.au ∙ Charlene Wrighta charlene.wright@deakin.edu.au ∙ Helena Rodia helena.r@deakin.edu.au ∙ Anna Chapmana ∙ Skye Marshalla skye.marshall@deakin.edu.au ∙ et al.
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanwpc/article/PIIS2666-6065(25)00295-0/fulltext?dgcid=hubspot_update_feature_lanwpcachievingequity25&utm_campaign=update-lanwpc&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--p86nHo3q2rtMVZoGAlLT3a0txTKVC4IC_ZA6-es6vMUKJk0PV5_cpZGQtCo3JTanAlvrr223NrOanufMfLb5CamQNng&_hsmi=402601768&utm_content=402363937&utm_source=hs_email
Interaction between physical activity and deficit-based frailty on all-cause mortality in older adults: a prospective study of five population-based cohorts
Zheng Zhua,b ∙ Xu Zhoua,b ∙ Mingling Chena,b ∙ Chun Doua,b ∙ Dong Liua,b ∙ Lijie Konga,b ∙ et al.
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanwpc/article/PIIS2666-6065(25)00319-0/fulltext?dgcid=hubspot_update_feature_updatealerts_lanwpc&utm_campaign=update-lanwpc&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9P-Z7m1qgQEK7-DnlEqH1x3Gnna--wk5yBLkcgPb0UTq324Y_8dsRNsHzOqi7ruIEfLuZe6J0Sel8ZfVBeoUpvpVdv3g&_hsmi=402601768&utm_content=402363937&utm_source=hs_email
Viewpoint: The activist group “Beyond Plastics’ is a scam front but it guided policy at Biden’s EPA David Zaruk | February 10, 2026 +++
https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/10/viewpoint-the-activist-group-beyond-plastics-is-a-scam-front-but-it-guided-policy-at-bidens-epa/
Viewpoint: Environmental activists corrupted Biden’s EPA
David Zaruk | February 9, 2026
https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/09/viewpoint-environmental-activists-corrupted-bidens-epa/
Viewpoint — Parts per billion, panic per bite: Healthy Florida First food hysteria and the war on modern agriculture
Jon Entine, Kevin Folta | February 9, 2026
https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/09/viewpoint-parts-per-billion-panic-per-bite-healthy-florida-first-food-hysteria-and-the-war-on-modern-agriculture/
Science Literacy Project Daily Digest ++++ ++++
RFK, Jr. dilemma: American Medical Association leadership split over whether to ostracize HHS secretary or vainly try to educate him
Simon Levien | Politico
https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/10/rfk-jr-dilemma-american-medical-association-leadership-split-over-whether-to-ostracize-hhs-secretary-or-vainly-try-to-educate-him/
The MAGA right’s weird obsession with the slur word ‘retard’
Dan Barry | New York Times
https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/10/the-maga-rights-weird-obsession-with-the-slur-word-retard/
Disinformation exploding on TikTok about agriculture and food
Thomas West | Food Manufacture
https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/10/disinformation-exploding-on-tiktok-about-agriculture-and-food/
Viewpoint: What happens if the AI bubble bursts? An anti-modernist skeptic makes his case
Steve Rose | Guardian
https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/10/viewpoint-what-happens-if-the-ai-bubble-burstsan-anti-modernist-skeptic-makes-his-case/
83 children died in Samoa after RFK, Jr. lobbying stopped measles vaccinations, and then he lied about it to Congress, emails show
Ali Swenson, Michelle Smith | Guardian
https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/09/83-children-died-in-samoa-after-rfk-jr-lobbying-stopped-measles-vaccinations-and-then-he-lied-about-it-to-congress-email-show/
Despite $12 billion in losses defending the safety of glyphosate, Bayer reiterates support for the herbicide
Jenny Schlecht | Ag Week
https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/09/despite-12-billion-in-losses-defending-the-safety-of-glyphosate-bayer-reiterates-support-for-the-herbicide/
Repurposing the husks and other fibrous residue from seed crops could be converted into carbon-storing building supplies
University of East London
https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/09/repurposing-the-husks-and-other-fibrous-residue-from-seed-crops-could-be-converted-into-carbon-storing-building-supplies/
Non-human animals and even bacteria are prone to spread misinformation
Carl Zimmer | New York Times
https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/02/09/non-human-animals-and-even-bacteria-are-prone-to-spread-misinformation/
Biotech doubles financing in quest to silence genes behind neurological diseases Aerska is focused on using ‘brain shuttles’ to deliver molecules past blood-brain barrier
https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/09/aerska-therapeutics-biotech-financing/
By Allison DeAngelisFeb. 9, 2026
Biotech Startups and Venture Capital Reporter
OHSU board votes to negotiate with NIH and possibly transform its primate center into an animal sanctuary Center had become a flashpoint over use of nonhuman primates in federally funded research
https://www.statnews.com/pharmalot/2026/02/09/monkeys-animals-ohsu-primates-nih-sanctuary/
By Ed SilvermanFeb. 9, 2026
Pharmalot Columnist, Senior Writer
Abridge CTO talks Epic, Microsoft, and rebranding as ‘more than an AI scribe’ Zachary Lipton gives updates on real-time prior authorization, clinical decision support features
https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/10/abridge-ai-scribe-cto-talks-epic-microsoft-rebranding/
By Brittany TrangFeb. 10, 2026
Health Tech Reporter
Lawsuit against Hims & Hers should be ‘wake-up call’ for compounders, Novo chief counsel says In interview, attorney for Danish drugmaker says compounding of Wegovy pill is a ‘tipping point’
https://www.statnews.com/pharmalot/2026/02/09/hims-novo-lawsuit-chief-counsel-interview/?utm_campaign=daily_recap&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8LcqTWjx0PZDygO0fqkychsEjjRdcNjv5H8zQb6k2yw5rNRoiUd9RlwpXo7I7PBv-5QrwR3sr7OM_jHRYrUh7aviHgxA&_hsmi=402802132&utm_content=402802132&utm_source=hs_email
By Elaine Chen and Ed SilvermanFeb. 9, 2026
MORE ON THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION ++ +++
MORE ON THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION
The New York Times: Trump Administration To Cut $600 Million In Health Funding From Four States
https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/09/health/trump-public-health-cuts-california.html?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9o_klqw2NhyWPVALtzTUFHPXs4LEOymX4ZI_xcV3e7qSTjcm_iRtI83sfmxzJxXPeiqnSNwSLRu8tr9iukUSLQ4e2ukQ&_hsmi=402893632&utm_content=402893632&utm_source=hs_email
The Trump administration plans to rescind $600 million in public health funds from four states led by Democrats because it finds the grants “inconsistent with agency priorities,” according to documents reviewed by The New York Times. The programs slated to be cut are in California, Colorado, Illinois and Minnesota. They include grants to state and local public health departments as well as to some nongovernmental organizations. A list of the cuts was shared with relevant congressional committees on Monday. (Mandavilli, 2/9)
Politico: RFK Jr.’s Followers Plan To Back Trump-Endorsed Candidates
https://www.politico.com/news/2026/02/09/rfk-jr-s-followers-plan-to-back-trump-endorsed-candidates-00772395?_hsenc=p2ANqtz--zvMnceVqOojlxTxMQYMYvPJ-K2mQgYxY1PzC52mXyyqcOA9cZEPN_q2lxTigZ_4PCTjnFrcPbRVQY3tcmMDqzF_2DgQ&_hsmi=402893632&utm_campaign=KHN:+First+Edition&utm_content=402893632&utm_medium=email&utm_source=hs_email
The leader of the political engine behind Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s Make America Healthy Again movement plans to favor candidates endorsed by President Donald Trump in this year’s elections. MAHA will work with candidates Trump supports to get “the best possible outcome for public health, for the issues that MAHA has been backing over the last year,” said Tony Lyons, president of the political group MAHA Action, at an event held by the conservative Heritage Foundation think tank in Washington Monday. (Paun, 2/9)
ON CAPITOL HILL
CIDRAP: Updated PASTEUR Act Reintroduced In Congress To Boost Antibiotic Development
https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/antimicrobial-stewardship/updated-pasteur-act-reintroduced-congress-boost-antibiotic-development?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8Ggt_5m8QIVSq-u0CsS0qSLg9KCgafdg7q80kN7UQNRzJWwpLEwWVwqfrV6sL2KFf-5v-b4df3eADwLzFB2G8yPOqXVA&_hsmi=402893632&utm_content=402893632&utm_source=hs_email
A bipartisan group of US lawmakers is taking another shot at legislation that advocates hope could boost antibiotic development efforts. The Pioneering Antimicrobial Subscriptions to End Upsurging Resistance (PASTEUR) Act, reintroduced last week by five members of the US House of Representatives, aims to revitalize the antibiotic and antifungal development pipeline by changing how the federal pays for novel antimicrobials. The bill was first introduced in Congress in 2020 and re-submitted in subsequent years but has never received a floor vote. (Dall, 2/9)
CIDRAP: Lawmakers Want Answers On CDC-Funded Hepatitis B Vaccine Trial In Africa
https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/hepatitis/lawmakers-want-answers-cdc-funded-hepatitis-b-vaccine-trial-africa?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_KtS4dK3SZo8PNcss4tycX7emcpCbrVjiFyCedgI7hsxsbiGToBGR59Ee1cUPl8Lg86zVQ-WEP2t9fU5csILajlBxuqg&_hsmi=402893632&utm_content=402893632&utm_source=hs_email
US lawmakers have sent a letter to federal health officials demanding answers on how and why a controversial vaccine trial in West Africa received federal funding. The letter from Democratic members of the House Energy & Commerce Committee to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Acting Director Jim O’Neill asks for all documentation regarding the decision to award a five-year, $1.6 million grant to a team of Danish researchers conducting the study, which aims to assess the overall health impact of the hepatitis B vaccine birth dose in Guinea-Bissau. (Dall, 2/9)
Roll Call: Trump’s Drug Pricing Plan Gets Lukewarm Reception
https://rollcall.com/2026/02/09/trumps-drug-pricing-plan-gets-lukewarm-reception/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_paJM87jVrzsMqQV6kDbkAIEVNdeMpUs8lXHosUF0b-zI7VKS52SpHFAc8VoK-g_-PM8f5zB7O5nILbNzUOBc0_bISOA&_hsmi=402893632&utm_content=402893632&utm_source=hs_email
President Donald Trump’s unconventional plan to lower prescription drug prices is being met with a skeptical eye from Republicans as Congress places a greater focus on drug pricing ahead of the midterm elections. (DeGroot, 2/9)
Modern Healthcare: CMS Proposes Sweeping Coverage, Oversight Rule For ACA Exchanges
https://www.modernhealthcare.com/politics-regulation/mh-aca-exchange-rule-2027-standardized-coverage/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_7dArfYJoqyt1zHNIAd3QOis70JY0MwQYNm4rSP7XuQwd0MWDqWsnFKQfG0iHayvQwEYn-dj_w41KrqTERQU-8TeSfNw&_hsmi=402893632&utm_content=402893632&utm_source=hs_email
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has unveiled numerous potential changes to Affordable Care Act exchange plans that could have far-reaching implications for enrollees and what they pay for coverage. In its draft payment rule for exchange plans in 2027, released Monday, the agency proposed getting rid of standardized coverage and accepting non-network health plans as qualified health plans. CMS also seeks to further broaden access to catastrophic coverage and continue a crackdown on exchange brokers. The proposal also would affect risk adjustment auditing policies for exchange plans. (Early, 2/9)
Obamacare Sign-Ups Drop, but the Extent Won’t Be Clear for Months By Julie Appleby February 10, 2026
https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/affordable-care-act-aca-obamacare-sign-ups-subsidies-higher-premiums/
KFF Health News: Obamacare Sign-Ups Drop, But The Extent Won’t Be Clear For Months
More Americans than expected enrolled in Affordable Care Act health insurance plans for this year, after premium subsidies were dramatically cut — but it remains to be seen whether they’ll keep the coverage as their costs mount. It’s all part of a drama that roiled the ACA’s 2026 open enrollment period. Congressional debate over whether to extend more generous subsidies made available under the Biden administration led to the longest-ever government shutdown and focused public attention on rising health care costs and the affordability issue. (Appleby, 2/10)
US Cancer Institute Studying Ivermectin’s ‘Ability To Kill Cancer Cells’ By Rachana Pradhan February 10, 2026
https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/ivermectin-cancer-treatment-nih-study-dewormer-offlabel-drug/
KFF Health News: US Cancer Institute Studying Ivermectin’s ‘Ability To Kill Cancer Cells’
The National Cancer Institute, the federal research agency charged with leading the war against the nation’s second-largest killer, is studying ivermectin as a potential cancer treatment, according to its top official. “There are enough reports of it, enough interest in it, that we actually did — ivermectin, in particular — did engage in sort of a better preclinical study of its properties and its ability to kill cancer cells,” said Anthony Letai, a physician the Trump administration appointed as NCI director in September. (Pradhan, 2/10)
Large language models and misinformation The Lancet Digital Health ++... ++
Large language models and misinformation
The Lancet Digital Health
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/landig/article/PIIS2589-7500(25)00157-8/fulltext?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_email
Jan 2026
Volume 8Number 1
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/landig/issue/vol8no1/PIIS2589-7500(26)X2001-5
Development and external validation of a clinical prediction model for new-onset atrial fibrillation in intensive care: a multicentre, retrospective cohort study
Jonathan P Bedford, DPhila,b,f jonathan.bedford@ndcn.ox.ac.uk ∙ Oliver Redfern, PhDa,f ∙ Stephen Gerry, DPhila,c ∙ Robert Hatch, BAa ∙ Prof Liza Keating, MScd ∙ Prof David Clifton, DPhile ∙ et al.
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/landig/article/PIIS2589-7500(25)00078-0/fulltext?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_feature_landig
Mapping the susceptibility of large language models to medical misinformation across clinical notes and social media: a cross-sectional benchmarking analysis
Mahmud Omar, MDa,b mahmudomar@mail.tau.ac.il ∙ Vera Sorin, MDc ∙ Lothar H Wieler, PhDb ∙ Alexander W Charney, MDa,b ∙ Patricia Kovatch, MDd ∙ Carol R Horowitz, MDe ∙ et al.
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/landig/article/PIIS2589-7500(25)00131-1/fulltext?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_feature_landig
Registered EMS Agencies: The New Kid on the DEA Block February 10, 2026 By Larry K. Houck — The Drug Enforcement
https://www.thefdalawblog.com/2026/02/registered-ems-agencies-the-new-kid-on-the-dea-block/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=registered-ems-agencies-the-new-kid-on-the-dea-block
The Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) has welcomed a new category of registrant: emergency medical services (“EMS”) agencies. DEA has finalized its regulations to conform with the Protecting Patient Access to Emergency Medications Act of 2017 (“the Act”), establishing a new registrant category, registration standards and controlled substance delivery, storage, and recordkeeping requirements for EMS agencies. Registering Emergency Medical Services Agencies Under the Protecting Patient Access to Emergency Medications Act of 2017, 91 Fed. Reg. 5216 (Feb. 5, 2026). The agency’s October 2020 notice of proposed rulemaking elicited 81 public comments. The new registration and controlled substance requirements for EMS agencies are dense and nuanced; we can only scratch the surface in this post.
lunes, 9 de febrero de 2026
The Bioethics Observatory and its websites consolidate their global expansion By Bioethics Observatory Published On: January 16th, 2026
https://bioethicsobservatory.org/2026/01/the-bioethics-observatory-and-its-websites-consolidate-their-global-expansion/48332/
The Bioethics Observatory of the Catholic University of Valencia has reaffirmed its digital leadership during the 2024-2025 period, registering sustained growth on both its main website in Spanish and its international version, Bioethics Observatory. Together, the two platforms have more than 235,000 active users, confirming the growing interest in rigorous bioethical analysis worldwide.
The Bioethics Observatory will analyze the ethical challenges of synthetic biology at an international congress By Bioethics Observatory Published On: February 9th, 2026
The Bioethics Observatory will analyze the ethical challenges of synthetic biology at an international congress
By Bioethics Observatory
Published On: February 9th, 2026
https://bioethicsobservatory.org/2026/02/the-bioethics-observatory-will-analyze-the-ethical-challenges-of-synthetic-biology-at-an-international-congress/48397/?utm_source=mailpoet&utm_medium=email&utm_source_platform=mailpoet
On April 20, 2026, the congress “Synthetic Biology and the Human Future: Possibilities, Limits, and Bioethical Challenges,” organized by the Bioethics Observatory, will take place. This event seeks to address the new ethical frontiers that arise from the current capacity to create and transform life through biotechnological advances.
MORE ON THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION: The Hill: New York Judge Extends Block On Federal Cuts To Social Service Funds In Democratic-Led States ++++ ++++ +
MORE ON THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION
The Hill: New York Judge Extends Block On Federal Cuts To Social Service Funds In Democratic-Led States
https://thehill.com/regulation/court-battles/5727806-judge-block-funding-freeze-social-services-programs-democratic-states/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8eRuG7mrAZWp8bnolH3C4VdJrB1SsmL4pZiC0euisrKdb_31xQx6hUlAsdnKaVjnnrJHFhd1IYiOIz87Mb69-cwmlo9w&_hsmi=402677445&utm_content=402677445&utm_source=hs_email
A New York judge on Friday extended a preliminary injunction blocking the Trump administration from slashing funds to social service programs in five Democrat-led states. U.S. District Judge Vernon Broderick made his ruling at the request of Minnesota, California, Illinois, New York and Colorado. The states receive more than $10 billion a year from the federal government for its programs, which help with child care and family assistance. New York Attorney General Letitia James (D) praised the ruling in a statement, saying the “illegal funding freeze would have caused severe chaos in the lives of some of the most vulnerable families in our state.” (Mancini, 2/7)
The Hill: Trump Official Mehmet Oz Alleges Maine 'Looks A Lot Like' Minnesota's Social Services Fraud
https://thehill.com/homenews/state-watch/5728249-trump-oz-allege-maine-fraud/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8IKpQACixSk_qNx8pyK64CIiRsL2upKt3aqMykn45U0nNsVXDxyNk_EEM1CQR32J591yJMhldTCh3N4TFbfLB1SGfBXQ&_hsmi=402677445&utm_content=402677445&utm_source=hs_email
The Trump administration’s top Medicare official has suggested that alleged fraud in Maine’s social services programs may be on par with the welfare fraud scandal in Minnesota. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Mehmet Oz said there is “another big crisis” concerning alleged social services fraud in Maine during an appearance on John Catsimatidis’s “The Cats Roundtable” radio show. “It turns out that Maine looks a lot like Minnesota,” Oz said in the interview, which aired Sunday morning. (Davis, 2/8)
NPR: Trump’s HHS Lauds Plastic Surgeons’ Statement On Care For Transgender Minors
https://www.npr.org/2026/02/08/nx-s1-5705304/transgender-minors-gender-affirming-care-plastic-surgery?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-85XQfhCZSo578NmCXpOai7yj9yQpPzpPmR6Qm6X0aXuBKvSxbR1OA7Rfj-vUpmcGTXEiTu3UUFSBL-YtQttd-o_HW7vw&_hsmi=402677445&utm_content=402677445&utm_source=hs_email
The Trump administration celebrated a recent statement from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, which recommends that doctors delay gender-related surgery until a patient is at least 19 years old. "Today marks another victory for biological truth in the Trump administration," wrote Deputy Health and Human Services Secretary Jim O'Neill said in a press release. "The American Society of Plastic Surgeons has set the scientific and medical standard for all provider groups to follow." (Simmons-Duffin, 2/8)
Politico: HUD Headquarters Move Draws Legal, Funding Scrutiny
https://www.politico.com/news/2026/02/08/legal-funding-concerns-loom-over-huds-relocation-to-virginia-00768637?utm_campaign=KHN:+First+Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9R7WAt0kyCl9POKqqjnINKjkG8sQo_Vlx2DHRg3fORLQtbJ4WEVT3zomDSllBKzq9PRLcumACA9kNzS7aglxGTeTVFZg&_hsmi=402677445&utm_content=402677445&utm_source=hs_email
The Department of Housing and Urban Development has started its long-awaited, multistage relocation of Washington-based staff to Alexandria, Virginia, even as questions swirl over the move’s legality, cost and congressional oversight. (Dumay, 2/8)
Stat: NIH Grant Reviewers Fear Schedule F Status Will Politicize Their Jobs
https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/06/nih-grant-reviewers-schedule-f-designation-politicizes-science/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_rumNXJePGZ--DoM05cNRXg0yYz6ndX2R0yDZcLUYRfFBNJG9RPSFr5sotZuD7QMvSbuClFbcfCr2Zi3Ik97-EtBhGDA&_hsmi=402677445&utm_content=402677445&utm_source=hs_email
The Trump administration is moving forward with a personnel rule that critics say will subject a broader swath of the federal workforce to political pressure, raising concerns that the change could deter accomplished scientists from joining the federal workforce and give political appointees greater influence over grant decisions. (Oza, 2/6)
Politico: Trump Cut Science Funding. Small Businesses Are Paying The Price.
https://www.politico.com/news/2026/02/08/trump-cut-science-funding-now-small-businesses-are-paying-the-price-00765051?utm_campaign=KHN:+First+Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_tuStUS_3AAazBwHQ5XjA5yjbK4Y4Fvad2ntmJUIoddSaZsnrPiNiyQM40pq7fGrQybx2tf9dIjoah8taUTCm0T18EAQ&_hsmi=402677445&utm_content=402677445&utm_source=hs_email
Melinda Holland started last year with high hopes for her business. Instead, 2025 ended with the company’s first layoffs in 40 years. That’s due largely to the policies of one man: President Donald Trump. The cuts his administration made last year to federal science programs undercut a key piece of Holland’s business, a small technology company named Wildlife Computers. Her company, based in Washington state, makes the data-collecting tags that scientists use to track animals in the field. (Harvey, 2/8)
The Washington Post: Why Dr. Oz Wants Americans To Delay Retirement And Help The Economy
https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2026/02/08/dr-mehmet-oz-delay-retirement/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-98n8S2rsfnzPFPzMEzxMufW9JJJIfAjkmKoWqhVc6JgR8VZALxPCnzndAwMLXDng_IymQ_OHtu4wfqIg7wWE7A5B8NoQ&_hsmi=402677445&utm_content=402677445&utm_source=hs_email
Mehmet Oz, administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, is working to persuade Americans that they should postpone retirement for one year. The question is whether they’ll buy it. He has repeatedly said delaying retirement — a fraught decision for millions, especially lower earners who have undersaved for it — marks physical vigor, and could help grow the economy or reduce the national debt. (Winfield Cunningham, 2/8)
Politico: MAHA And Mike Tyson Want You To ‘Eat Real Food’ During The Super Bowl
https://www.politico.com/news/2026/02/06/rfk-jr-maha-mike-tyson-super-bowl-ad-00769278?utm_campaign=KHN:+First+Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--MTyJTPQKTDdOdyAC59Du2_BASYGSmzy-pbTpM_S2s9C1EGuCxUfuiaXfeVIcJDm3fVtp2GvVR8OnCTx4olU1G6zXhiQ&_hsmi=402677445&utm_content=402677445&utm_source=hs_email
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s allies are airing an ad during the Super Bowl featuring Mike Tyson boosting the Make America Healthy Again campaign, giving Kennedy another high-profile perch as allies look for ways to bolster his MAHA movement. The ad, paid for by the nonprofit MAHA Center, highlights new dietary guidelines announced by the Health and Human Services secretary in January and urges viewers to “eat real food,” borrowing a line regularly used by Kennedy about his nutrition recommendations. (Pellish, 2/6)
Politico: How Oura Ring Won Over Washington
https://www.politico.com/news/2026/02/09/oura-ring-lobbying-rfk-maha-washington-00770320?nid=0000014f-1646-d88f-a1cf-5f46b7bd0000&nname=playbook&nrid=00000157-9a2f-de5f-a77f-fb3f1a030000
It turns out there is a way for a foreign company to make it in Donald Trump’s Washington. Oura rings are on fingers from the Pentagon to Capitol Hill, tracking everything from sleep quality to fertility. Their Finnish maker’s success stems from design savvy and good timing, but also shrewd attention to the way politics works in the capital. (Chu, 2/9)
ON CAPITOL HILL: Axios: Limits On Care Denials In Medicare Stall In Congress Again ++++
ON CAPITOL HILL
Axios: Limits On Care Denials In Medicare Stall In Congress Again
https://www.axios.com/2026/02/09/medicare-denials-limits-stall-congress?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9FmIpRGVVTHNCrfSLMEMYV36F5oHN3L0J5KhvgXivkJvQRhjzg0XRxogfC-cY2-SU1Zlbzz6xBgd7h7QaDLNd9XzdGHQ&_hsmi=402677445&utm_content=402677445&utm_source=hs_email
Long-running efforts to limit health plans' ability to deny or delay physician-ordered care are on hold again, despite mounting congressional frustration with insurers. By leaving a measure addressing so-called prior authorization reviews out of the bipartisan health package last week, lawmakers may have lost the chance to address a major source of aggravation for patients and doctors before the midterms. (Sullivan, 2/9)
Modern Healthcare: Congress Signals Toward More PBM Reform, Targets GPO Subsidiaries
https://www.modernhealthcare.com/politics-regulation/mh-congress-pbm-reform-gpo-subsidiaries/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--wqfpohXCxzSBR4WCByGXCW61GpmznFRkt-GDgqa8UJKllU0u7OGlmr9suXzD3UcP77w1QYZCaTNLtlHlxR0gMt4T3Jw&_hsmi=402677445&utm_content=402677445&utm_source=hs_email
Congress may have just passed sweeping legislation targeting compensation and transparency in the pharmacy benefit manager sector, but numerous lawmakers say that’s just a start. Exactly what comes next — and what will still be relevant once the main provisions of the new law take effect in 2028 — is not clear, but some legislators took aim at the largest PBMs’ group purchasing organizations, singling them out in hearings with top health insurance executives last month. (McAuliff, 2/6)
CIDRAP: US Allocates $5.9 Billion For Global HIV Programs In Spending Bill
https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/hivaids/us-allocates-59-billion-global-hiv-programs-spending-bill?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--tZBGAm3HBLJLzq3JRGKN-xXuff6RJna1YFSSvmDnFWoAveAx1Mp7PQ_T4ZDucjMiIUSNXziiywTnb5UQj6F6Tagwo2A&_hsmi=402677445&utm_content=402677445&utm_source=hs_email
This week, President Donald Trump signed into law a $5.9 billion spending package aimed at supporting the global response to HIV/AIDS and global public health. The signing of the appropriations bill was hailed by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) as providing life-saving support for millions of people across the globe. (Bergeson, 2/6)
Fierce Healthcare: Virtual Diabetes Prevention Programs Secure Medicare Coverage
https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/digital-health/virtual-diabetes-prevention-programs-secure-medicare-coverage?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_1UDJV3JtBhiSpxFfpuVD4PlM0kFzgwIlRcUpgvH9ODxcA3Degqc_dUTaNjZ6C4fpTxw4hNSlvdsfj5nP7ClMGKNdK2w&_hsmi=402677445&utm_content=402677445&utm_source=hs_email
In the $1.2 trillion budget package signed Tuesday, a little-known healthcare provision was reauthorized that will allow millions of people on Medicare to access diabetes prevention education online. (Beavins, 2/6)
HEALTH CARE INDUSTRY: Fierce Healthcare: MultiCare Pays $3.7M To Settle Unnecessary Surgery Allegations +++ +++ +
HEALTH CARE INDUSTRY
Fierce Healthcare: MultiCare Pays $3.7M To Settle Unnecessary Surgery Allegations
https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/providers/multicare-agrees-37m-settlement-over-allegations-it-knowingly-allowed-unnecessary?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--kJLpBcIJQpP_JhfLHolmJlMG9IPXgTmkEsxbUw2TliU90ca5zF6S3G8r7Q7enU15R7-pZD-mdmLZEn_shb2KOxA1YCg&_hsmi=402677445&utm_content=402677445&utm_source=hs_email
MultiCare Health System has agreed to a multimillion-dollar settlement with law enforcement to resolve allegations it ignored “numerous red flags” and knowingly permitted and billed procedures conducted by a neurosurgeon under investigation for fraudulent, medically unnecessary care. (Muoio, 2/6)
Modern Healthcare: Molina Eyes Medicaid Acquisitions Amid Medicare Advantage Exit
https://www.modernhealthcare.com/insurance/mh-molina-medicaid-acquisitions-medicare-advantage/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8WnVyPobm0Wtr6Zq00a7GEBmZ1buldDsIegr3C6_5T9sWi1p5FkjWb3yA5cPDx3Q8OXQC4KpSF7GJR0XM-oFqnNMtYkA&_hsmi=402677445&utm_content=402677445&utm_source=hs_email
Molina Healthcare is looking to acquire Medicaid carriers as it exits the Medicare Advantage market. State reimbursements have fallen short of Medicaid members’ expenses, CEO Joe Zubretsky told analysts during the company’s fourth-quarter earnings call Friday. The challenging funding environment, however, presents an opportunity to buy smaller insurers that lack the capital to tough out the difficult cycle, Zubretsky said. (Tepper, 2/6)
Fierce Healthcare: Aetna Rolls Out New Digital Member Onboarding Experience
https://www.fiercehealthcare.com/payers/aetna-unveils-new-digital-member-onboarding-experience?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9bcwOBg9K_O2tcXUUOkM1nwjk2C3OCrMBX1l8PREG3zygjkhVcYv1xzc7UhOlwCaf-UTTMqU7tNc4lL1LkEtYGCqR70w&_hsmi=402677445&utm_content=402677445&utm_source=hs_email
Aetna is continuing to build out its digital member experience with the launch of a new onboarding program designed to ease the process. The insurer said Thursday that the platform will be available to 4 million new members during the welcome period for their enrollment. (Minemyer, 2/6)
Stat: Updated CMS Data Reshapes Medicare Advantage Risk Scores
https://www.statnews.com/2026/02/09/medicare-advantage-new-cms-risk-scores-target-insurer-upcoding/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--N4GUhflIE_7RIztj6frrpjOTYuBxzzuG2e_DFmmIxSaurOqUAly0NIAjFfVmXI1Ae1PAMvLlrhzDA5BbbWBCTVfwyQQ&_hsmi=402677445&utm_content=402677445&utm_source=hs_email
The health insurance industry was caught off guard by the federal government’s recent proposal to keep next year’s payments to Medicare Advantage plans mostly flat, and to change a controversial coding practice. But another equally significant change has flown under the radar — and is a major reason why some insurers may face big hits to revenue. (Herman, 2/9)
Modern Healthcare: Epic Systems Launches AI Charting Tool In Latest EHR Market Push
https://www.modernhealthcare.com/health-tech/mh-epic-systems-ai-charting-tool-ehr/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9isCegncZVrtOfJqN_oytsUtTI-_-UyC8NuN_zXuRY-8tVghL9sfz5ofERT5SkQIEGHq36-tu8ERYVonuC4NVavZI0_g&_hsmi=402677445&utm_content=402677445&utm_source=hs_email
Epic Systems made another move earlier this week to advance its artificial intelligence strategy. The large electronic health record vendor hosted an event for its customers on Wednesday, where it officially launched its AI charting tool. The customizable ambient listening feature aims to help clinicians write notes and offers guidance based on these conversations. The feature is an expansion of Art, Epic’s suite of AI for clinicians that it announced in August at the company’s user group meeting. The AI charting tool is available to customers immediately. Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin, is among the early adopters. (Famakinwa, 2/6)
The Baltimore Sun: Johns Hopkins University Research Staff Begin Unionization Effort
https://www.baltimoresun.com/2026/02/04/johns-hopkins-university-research-staff-begin-unionization-effort/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--KJzAjGr9B8WW4hMyJsLD6vkHDBPwdZ8DKpsYYO6ZWT5XY8yv47anWXzU-PVF5-M0rzKg0vQ1GqYWCehif_difWoOozw&_hsmi=402677445&utm_content=402677445&utm_source=hs_email
Johns Hopkins University research staff announced plans this week to start a union in an effort to get higher pay, transparent career paths and more job security. (Bazos, 2/4)
The New York Times: Podcast: When Anesthesia Fails And The Patient Is Cut Open
https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/06/podcasts/the-daily/anesthesia-c-sections-patient-pain.html?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--UKQY-Nkun4KA98-qPaO5mr0ZpPUkN_6Txbdp9ELEgT9-cWLCmAhHXWKZFAVdgUVdpYfiZ0C_gohgCnnWBeVzJTH1e2w&_hsmi=402677445&utm_content=402677445&utm_source=hs_email
Women’s pain is too often dismissed in medicine. An alarming number of women report feeling major surgery and dealing with doctors and nurses who make light of their complaints. Susan Burton, reporter and host of the podcast “The Retrievals,” shares stories from just a few of the many cases of women who felt significant pain during their C-sections. (Burton, 2/6)
Suscribirse a:
Comentarios (Atom)
