Making treatment for obesity more equitable The Lancet ++... ++

Making treatment for obesity more equitable The Lancet https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(26)00554-4/fulltext?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_email Mar 21, 2026 Volume 407Number 10534p1119-1208 https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/issue/vol407no10534/PIIS0140-6736(26)X2009-8 Could engineered xenotransplantation end the organ shortage and save lives? February 23, 2026 • The Lancet https://www.buzzsprout.com/2593131/episodes/18655350-could-engineered-xenotransplantation-end-the-organ-shortage-and-save-lives Efficacy and safety of once-daily oral orforglipron compared with oral semaglutide in adults with type 2 diabetes (ACHIEVE-3): a multinational, multicentre, non-inferiority, open-label, randomised, phase 3 trial Julio Rosenstock, MDa,* juliorosenstock@dallasdiabetes.com ∙ Daisuke Yabe, MDb,c,d ∙ David Cox, PhDe ∙ Jianghao Li, PhDe ∙ Max Denning, MDe ∙ Wen-Shuo Wu, MDe ∙ et al. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(26)00202-3/abstract?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_feature_lancet

Burden of disease and life expectancy decomposition in Brazil and its federated units, 1990–2023: an analysis based on the global burden of disease study 2023 GBD 2023 Brazil Collaborators

Burden of disease and life expectancy decomposition in Brazil and its federated units, 1990–2023: an analysis based on the global burden of disease study 2023 GBD 2023 Brazil Collaborators https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanam/article/PIIS2667-193X(26)00071-2/fulltext?dgcid=hubspot_email_lancet-gbdalerts&utm_campaign=gbdalerts&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--0VPmqt8HABMdvYpkpt_-Sb3tX6FIKCYKLrWr_CTQT2xvZVLsHy9N0qwE53SX3E0kmZHHy2kD9piKPXfLB_NhUKv9Klg&_hsmi=409911665&utm_content=409742375&utm_source=hs_email

Global, regional, and national burden of Chagas disease, 1990–2023: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2023 GBD 2023 Chagas Disease and RAISE Study Collaborators

Global, regional, and national burden of Chagas disease, 1990–2023: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2023 GBD 2023 Chagas Disease and RAISE Study Collaborators https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laninf/article/PIIS1473-3099(25)00562-6/abstract?utm_campaign=gbdalerts&utm_medium=email&dgcid=hubspot_email_lancet-gbdalerts&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-95OG9DOMX7heD6YVsl0beq4zsFlF9JfhV8n3zlo_4qb0HwXxDyuQe_JNyjsaYQs1t4KxPVLzq21SgvyYlfh5cPc7n_rA&_hsmi=409911665&utm_content=409742375&utm_source=hs_email

Disease burden attributable to intimate partner violence against females and sexual violence against children in 204 countries and territories, 1990–2023: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2023 GBD 2023 Intimate Partner Violence and Sexual Violence against Children Collaborators

Disease burden attributable to intimate partner violence against females and sexual violence against children in 204 countries and territories, 1990–2023: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2023 GBD 2023 Intimate Partner Violence and Sexual Violence against Children Collaborators https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(25)02503-6/fulltext?dgcid=hubspot_email_lancet-gbdalerts&utm_campaign=gbdalerts&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8-gubcBCN3e2_bDumCkCfw3qGZpXYY-GbxELrw0F-riW5_KWfo6OXxK4Jy4fgY_yeN2T8oGPzZ6CxUbtGb9LQ-8oXR8A&_hsmi=409911665&utm_content=409742375&utm_source=hs_email

Quantifying the fatal and non-fatal burden of disease associated with child growth failure, 2000–2023: a systematic analysis from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2023 GBD 2023 Child Growth Failure Collaborators

Quantifying the fatal and non-fatal burden of disease associated with child growth failure, 2000–2023: a systematic analysis from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2023 GBD 2023 Child Growth Failure Collaborators https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanchi/article/PIIS2352-4642(25)00303-7/fulltext?dgcid=hubspot_email_lancet-gbdalerts&utm_campaign=gbdalerts&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--xYN49uo15TjHolUVJZRvGx4g-m_53pIS1qkc4pjklaSo_j4QFICjyxE7IpjQtR-JEEMJ-71Vak6qH97VCWOPX6vQaiA&_hsmi=409911665&utm_content=409742375&utm_source=hs_email

Burden of chronic respiratory disease in Asia, 1990–2023: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2023 GBD 2023 Asia Chronic Respiratory Disease Collaborators

Burden of chronic respiratory disease in Asia, 1990–2023: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2023 GBD 2023 Asia Chronic Respiratory Disease Collaborators https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanres/article/PIIS2213-2600(25)00404-7/abstract?utm_campaign=gbdalerts&utm_medium=email&dgcid=hubspot_email_lancet-gbdalerts&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9PpefYFZjS9b7GE5Ab6oo5o0040Ff6x8Rhc3wq5K1INO5UResbhGfU69KmN5b7FWLYtlw1tcGR6B764QmqJ-U7ymWVNQ&_hsmi=409911665&utm_content=409742375&utm_source=hs_email

Editorial p269 England's National Cancer Plan: hollow promises? The Lancet Oncology + +...

Global, regional, and national burden of breast cancer among females, 1990–2023, with forecasts to 2050: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2023 GBD 2023 Breast Cancer Collaborators https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanonc/article/PIIS1470-2045(25)00730-2/abstract?utm_campaign=gbdalerts&utm_medium=email&dgcid=hubspot_email_lancet-gbdalerts&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--GAitcpkD7Gg0vjUg5Maek5oePAxjW_skzmbx69rW3lCJ_9NsjZGP70_wjF1VJzvAGaxkjRKSP3FKpCW--nf-e0oUy6w&_hsmi=409911665&utm_content=409742375&utm_source=hs_email Editorial p269 England's National Cancer Plan: hollow promises? The Lancet Oncology https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanonc/issue/vol27no3/PIIS1470-2045(26)X2002-2

Global equity in paediatric cancer care The Lancet Haematology ++...

Global equity in paediatric cancer care The Lancet Haematology https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanhae/article/PIIS2352-3026(26)00042-6/fulltext?dgcid=hubspot_update_feature_updatealerts_lanhae&utm_campaign=update-lanhae&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--H8oTyxujatb_YqEx2bVOj_Fa_hoJ8wq7PKRpknaqlsOCA4jdJkFsxeqY0T4tXYYoqCUbqkMmrspU9ACjlYYjmLH_FGQ&_hsmi=408878165&utm_content=408392511&utm_source=hs_email Mar 2026 Volume 13Number 3e119-e186 https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanhae/issue/vol13no3/PIIS2352-3026(26)X2002-6

TB far from elimination: an enduring reality in the southeast Asia region The Lancet Regional Health – Southeast Asia + +... ++

TB far from elimination: an enduring reality in the southeast Asia region The Lancet Regional Health – Southeast Asia https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lansea/article/PIIS2772-3682(26)00035-1/fulltext?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_email Mar 2026 Volume 46 https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lansea/issue/vol46nonull/PIIS2772-3682(26)X2001-7 Annual trends and risk factors of late presentation of HIV at 19 referral hospitals in Indonesia: findings from the INA-PROACTIVE cohort Dona Arlindaa ∙ Evy Yunihastutib ∙ Agnes Rengga Indratic agnes.indrati@unpad.ac.id ∙ Tuti Parwati Meratid ∙ Emmanuelle Papote ∙ Deborah Cromere ∙ et al. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lansea/article/PIIS2772-3682(26)00027-2/fulltext?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_feature_lansea Comprehensive tuberculosis screening and preventive treatment in schools and congregate settings of India (2017–2024): a prospective study Kunchok Dorjeea,c,d kdorjee1@jhmi.edu ∙ Sonam Topgyalb ∙ Rajesh K. Soode ∙ Tenzin Namdonb ∙ Ravinder Kumare ∙ Ugen Gyatsob ∙ et al. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lansea/article/PIIS2772-3682(26)00010-7/fulltext?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_feature_lansea

Oral health in the Americas: progress, gaps, and the path to universal coverage The Lancet Regional Health – Americas ++... ++

Oral health in the Americas: progress, gaps, and the path to universal coverage The Lancet Regional Health – Americas https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanam/article/PIIS2667-193X(26)00088-8/fulltext?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_email Mar 2026 Volume 55 https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanam/issue/vol55nonull/PIIS2667-193X(25)X0014-4 The prevalence of cannabis use pre-versus post-cannabis legalization in Canada by mental health status: findings from national repeat cross-sectional surveys Samantha Rundlea ∙ Maryam Iraniparastb ∙ David Hammond https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanam/article/PIIS2667-193X(26)00002-5/fulltext?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_feature_lanam Associations between state-level abortion restrictions and postpartum depression symptoms from a United States nationwide cohort Maetal E. Haas-Kogana ∙ Andrea Pelletierb,c ∙ Amanda Koirec,d,e ∙ Primavera A. Spagnoloc,d,e ∙ Deborah Bartz https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanam/article/PIIS2667-193X(26)00040-2/fulltext?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_feature_lanam

Editorial e475 Tuberculosis at a crossroads The Lancet Global Health + ++ +...

Tuberculosis at a crossroads The Lancet Global Health https://www.thelancet.com/journals/langlo/article/PIIS2214-109X(26)00071-9/fulltext?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_email Effects of climate change on physical inactivity: a panel data study across 156 countries from 2000 to 2022 Christian García-Witulski, PhDa,b,c christian_garcia@uca.edu.ar ∙ Mariano Rabassa, PhDa ∙ Oscar Melo, PhDd ∙ Juliana Helo Sarmiento, PhD https://www.thelancet.com/journals/langlo/article/PIIS2214-109X(25)00472-3/fulltext?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_feature_langlo Energy and health in low-income and middle-income countries https://www.thelancet.com/series-do/energy-health-2026?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_feature_langloenergyhealth26 Apr 2026 Volume 14Number 4e475-e667 https://www.thelancet.com/journals/langlo/issue/vol14no4/PIIS2214-109X(26)X2002-2

Energy and health in low-income and middle-income countries +...

https://www.thelancet.com/series-do/energy-health-2026?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_feature_langloenergyhealth26

Reimagining radiology reporting The Lancet Digital Health ++... ++

Reimagining radiology reporting The Lancet Digital Health https://www.thelancet.com/journals/landig/article/PIIS2589-7500(26)00021-X/fulltext?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_email Feb 2026 Volume 8Number 2 https://www.thelancet.com/journals/landig/issue/vol8no2/PIIS2589-7500(26)X2002-7 Smartwatch-derived versus self-reported outcomes of physiological recovery after COVID-19, influenza, and group A streptococcus: a 2-year prospective cohort study Yosi Levi, PhDa ∙ Varun Gande, BSb ∙ Erez Shmueli, PhDa ∙ Tal Patalon, MDc ∙ Sivan Gazit, MDc ∙ Prof Margaret L Brandeau, PhDb,∗ ∙ et al. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/landig/article/PIIS2589-7500(25)00138-4/fulltext?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_feature_landig End-to-end integrative segmentation and radiomics prognostic models for risk stratification of high-grade serous ovarian cancer: a retrospective multicohort study Kristofer Linton-Reid, PhDa,b ∙ Haonan Lu, PhDa,b,c ∙ Georg Wengert, MDa,b,d,f ∙ Prof Christina Fotopoulou, MDa ∙ Philippa Lee, MDd ∙ Federica Petta, MDe ∙ et al. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/landig/article/PIIS2589-7500(25)00137-2/fulltext?dgcid=raven_jbs_etoc_feature_landig

Editorial p187 Innovation is needed to avoid closure of rural US hospitals The Lancet Respiratory Medicine +++ +...

Bisoprolol to prevent adverse cardiac events (PACE) in COPD: a multicentre, double-blind, randomised, controlled, phase 3 trial Prof Christine R Jenkins, MDa ∙ Allison Martin, PhDa ∙ Catherina L Chang, MDb ∙ Prof Richard Beasley, DScc ∙ Jeremy P Wrobel, PhDd ∙ Prof Vanessa M McDonald, PhDe ∙ et al. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanres/article/PIIS2213-2600(25)00390-X/abstract?utm_campaign=update-lanres&utm_medium=email&dgcid=hubspot_update_feature_updatealerts_lanres&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8Yj1ZmJgVvNADnhFd5zGVdXuEIAThMdcjymAynhfwb2u0r79S5_Bc4I93BEn1GBxTXmzlnNw55xz4aGPuPCvza82Pjfg&_hsmi=409018631&utm_content=408447723&utm_source=hs_email Burden of chronic respiratory disease in Asia, 1990–2023: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2023 GBD 2023 Asia Chronic Respiratory Disease Collaborators https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanres/article/PIIS2213-2600(25)00404-7/abstract?utm_campaign=update-lanres&utm_medium=email&dgcid=hubspot_update_feature_updatealerts_lanres&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8oQ-uXA50bYIbZcFozgfMDAcO7VxLenh8HuIvlEiIHub_NsBpTpq9-3sQLt24AlcsrUsT1q6tR4YRlrlHJ0pZFAQncew&_hsmi=409018631&utm_content=408447723&utm_source=hs_email Survival effect of prehospital emergency anaesthesia with intubation in risk-stratified patients with major trauma: a causal modelling study Amy PK Nelson, MBChBa,b amy.nelson@ucl.ac.uk ∙ Nick Dodds, MBChBc ∙ Mohamad Zeina, MBBSa ∙ Alfred Balston, MBBSd ∙ Dominic Giles, PhDa ∙ William H Seligman, BMBChe ∙ et al. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanres/article/PIIS2213-2600(25)00370-4/fulltext?dgcid=hubspot_update_feature_updatealerts_lanres&utm_campaign=update-lanres&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9MaG_ZPiUNb5MofxoVflwDJ5el45vB5xu5o6zK6hO9r0SwBKtSrKld8cjc8FvWSYw5fYT9z8hMbtWdBGNszCUyz1rDAQ&_hsmi=409018631&utm_content=408447723&utm_source=hs_email Editorial p187 Innovation is needed to avoid closure of rural US hospitals The Lancet Respiratory Medicine https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanres/issue/vol14no3/PIIS2213-2600(26)X2002-1

Beyond geopolitics: Greenland's suicide crisis The Lancet Regional Health – Europe +++ +...

Efficacy of an online self-help programme with automated or individualised psychological support versus treatment as usual for caregivers of people with depression: a randomised, controlled, open-label, superiority trial Elisabeth Schramma elisabeth.schramm@uniklinik-freiburg.de ∙ Nadine Zehendera ∙ Christoph Breuningera,b ∙ Ulrich Hegerlc,d ∙ Anne Elsnerd ∙ Andy Maune ∙ et al. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanepe/article/PIIS2666-7762(25)00352-7/fulltext?dgcid=hubspot_update_feature_updatealerts_lanepe&utm_campaign=update-lanepe&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--zSjfPxcXfxJMjbqdKcJQ5x23ZGewgqwyiV47PGsTU_-2ufpooVnKeYEsQi1PTGFdTdZXI-yzjonYImh7obRP3YEdm5w&_hsmi=409031429&utm_content=408448726&utm_source=hs_email Geopolitics and public health: Europe under the shadow of the U.S. National Security Strategy Jonathan Cylusa ∙ Martin McKee https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanepe/article/PIIS2666-7762(26)00037-2/fulltext?dgcid=hubspot_update_feature_updatealerts_lanepe&utm_campaign=update-lanepe&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--bazC7xCrfWCZ4u1vS4Ld0v04YgPFBHN3HDNXGOhIRWtzKTPN1xfGVE_lAkFDwNcFVpHXpsRwhgjl7sgysYkBbYQTAOg&_hsmi=409031429&utm_content=408448726&utm_source=hs_email Beyond geopolitics: Greenland's suicide crisis The Lancet Regional Health – Europe https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanepe/article/PIIS2666-7762(26)00054-2/fulltext?dgcid=hubspot_update_feature_updatealerts_lanepe&utm_campaign=update-lanepe&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--I1dk0ZxulRjS-wG_bf-oEad5leq4JrtvB3pNScd-yatwqUIJXdBaYpGt42sdc9EG9Z_X-wgwzif5hos0-d16UA3EYYA&_hsmi=409031429&utm_content=408448726&utm_source=hs_email Mar 2026 Volume 62 https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanepe/issue/vol62nonull/PIIS2666-7762(25)X0013-2

Advancing High-Value Pediatric Care: Using Data, AI, and Family Engagement to Improve Outcomes Event Date: April 28, 2026 | 3:00pm – 4:30pm ET

https://digital.ahrq.gov/national-webinars/advancing-high-value-pediatric-care-using-data-ai-and-family-engagement-improve Delivering high-value pediatric care requires using the right information at the right times with families as true partners in care. Health systems are implementing data-driven clinical decision support, AI-enabled analytics, and family-facing digital tools such as inpatient portals to better support care delivery. These innovations help address variability in treatment responses, promote smarter use of tests, support shared decision making, and enhance transparency and family engagement during pediatric hospitalizations. Join AHRQ’s expert panel to explore how these innovations are applied within pediatric clinical workflows to improve outcomes while advancing more efficient, family-centered care. At the conclusion of the event, participants should be able to: Discuss challenges in managing pediatric chronic conditions with respect to variability in treatment responses and explore visual approaches to support patient-centered decision making. Apply insights from machine learning–based clinical decision support (CDS) tools to pediatric clinical workflows to improve care delivery. Describe how inpatient portals support parent engagement and patient safety during pediatric hospitalizations. This event is part of AHRQ Digital Healthcare Research (DHR) Program national webinar series. Our webinars showcase the latest scientific advancements and key conversations with experts around impactful research in the evolving digital healthcare ecosystem. Access our National Webinar page for on-demand webinar recordings and upcoming events. https://digital.ahrq.gov/national-webinars

Physicochemical and Structural (Q3) Characterization of Topical Drug Products Submitted in ANDAs March 2026

https://www.fda.gov/regulatory-information/search-fda-guidance-documents/physicochemical-and-structural-q3-characterization-topical-drug-products-submitted-andas?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery New Final Guidance for Industry: Physicochemical and Structural (Q3) Characterization of Topical Drug Products Submitted in ANDAs The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published the final guidance for industry entitled “Physicochemical and Structural (Q3) Characterization of Topical Drug Products Submitted in ANDAs.” This guidance finalizes the draft guidance for industry of the same title issued on October 21, 2022. This final guidance is intended to assist applicants who submit abbreviated new drug applications (ANDAs) for liquid-based and/or other semisolid products applied to the skin, including integumentary and mucosal membranes, referred to as “topical products.” This final guidance provides recommendations for physicochemical and structural (collectively, “Q3”) characterizations that can be used to identify the dosage form of a proposed generic (test) topical product, and to describe properties of the drug product that may be critical to its performance (to support a demonstration of bioequivalence (BE)). This final guidance provides recommendations on the types of characterizations that constitute a basic and comprehensive Q3 characterization. This final guidance also describes the concepts of “sameness,” “similarity,” and “difference” in comparing Q3 characterizations of two topical products, and how showing “Q3 sameness,” “Q3 similarity,” or “Q3 difference” between a test topical product and the reference standard may impact what additional evidence may be recommended to demonstrate BE, as part of a comparative product characterization-based approach. This guidance does not address Q3 characterization of topical products for purposes of product quality control. As part of the Drug Competition Action Plan, FDA is publishing this guidance to increase competition in the marketplace for prescription drugs, facilitate the entry of high-quality and affordable generic drugs, and improve public health.

Women and Health: Uncovering Health-Care Disparities

Editorial Advancing understanding of social prescribing in the Western Pacific region The Lancet Regional Health – Western Pacific +...

Editorial Advancing understanding of social prescribing in the Western Pacific region The Lancet Regional Health – Western Pacific https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanwpc/issue/vol67nonull/PIIS2666-6065(25)X0015-8

Editorial Amplifying African voices to lead science for better health The Lancet Regional Health – Africa +...

Editorial Amplifying African voices to lead science for better health The Lancet Regional Health – Africa https://www.thelancet.com/issue/S3050-5011(26)X2001-6

RFK, Jr. and the Trump administration’s political purge of scientists echoes the darkest days of the McCarthy period Geoffrey Kabat | March 18, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/03/18/rfk-jr-and-the-trump-administrations-polical-purge-of-scientists-echoes-the-darkest-days-of-the-mccarthy-period/ Something sinister and yet vaguely familiar has been happening in American public health policy. This week’s federal court decision reversing Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.’s gutting of Covid-vaccine and childhood-immunization policy, and overturning his firing of the independent scientists who had overseen it, amounted to a judicial rebuke of a campaign that echoes one of the darkest chapters in American history.

With food prices rising, Democrats blame “corporate consolidation” over food aid cuts as a campaign message Lisa Held | Civil Eats | March 19, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/03/19/with-food-prices-rising-democrats-blame-corporate-consolidation-over-food-aid-cuts-as-a-campaign-message/ At the Capitol Hill roundtable …, hosted by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-New York), farmers, union leaders, lawyers, academics, and hunger advocates railed against policies they say have allowed corporations to get too big. They say the policies hurt consumers by making them pay more at the register, and also hurt farmers, who earn less for what they produce.

Pentagon nears use of untested AI in life-and-death war targeting decisions James O'Donnell | MIT Technology Review | March 19, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/03/19/pentagon-nears-use-of-untested-ai-in-life-and-death-war-targeting-decisions/ The US military might use generative AI systems to rank lists of targets and make recommendations—which would be vetted by humans—about which to strike first, according to a Defense Department official with knowledge of the matter. The disclosure about how the military may use AI chatbots comes as the Pentagon faces scrutiny over a strike on an Iranian school, which it is still investigating.

Grassroots MAHA pushes back against White House plan to back away from anti-vaccine rhetoric Chelsea Cirruzzo, Daniel Payne | STAT News | March 19, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/03/19/grassroots-maha-pushes-back-against-white-house-plan-to-back-away-from-anti-vaccine-rhetoric/ White House officials are steering the Trump administration away from vaccine reform, fearing the political consequences of emphasizing a relatively unpopular issue in a key election year.

Supreme Court likely to have final say on RFK, Jr.’s currently-blocked vaccine policy Liz Szabo | CIDRAP | March 19, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/03/19/supreme-court-likely-to-have-final-say-on-rfk-jr-s-currently-blocked-vaccine-policy/ Although a federal judge in Boston has temporarily blocked the Trump administration’s changes to the US childhood immunization schedule, the US Supreme Court could have two chances over the next year to weigh in on the decision, legal experts say.

Viewpoint: Farmers face mounting challenges — Proposed U.S. farm bill doesn’t meet them Rebekah Alvey | Civil Eats | March 20, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/03/20/viewpoint-farmers-face-mounting-challenges-proposed-u-s-farm-bill-doesnt-meet-them/ The House Agriculture Committee advanced a proposed farm bill … —a set of legislative proposals that have traditionally balanced the social safety net around food with the needs of farmers and other food producers. Although a farm bill is typically passed every five years, Congress has failed to pass a new package since the last farm bill expired, in 2023.

Viewpoint: Social media influencers are promoting RFK, Jr.’s dangerous protein-heavy diet Sylvia Thompson | Irish Times | March 20, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/03/20/viewpoint-social-media-influencers-are-promoting-rfk-jr-s-dangerous-protein-heavy-diet/ The rise of social media influencers promoting the carnivore diet with its emphasis on eating as much beef, butter and bacon as you want is a dangerous example of dietary misinformation, according to a medical doctor in Cork University Hospital.

As vaccine disinformation sweeps the country, pediatricians struggle to respond Apoorva Mandavilli | New York Times | March 20, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/03/20/as-vaccine-disinformation-sweeps-the-country-pediatricians-struggle-to-respond/ Across the country, clinicians like Dr. [Alissa] Parker, who also holds a doctorate in nursing practice, are contending with a sharp rise in vaccine hesitancy. They are trying to do what is best for children’s health while staying sensitive and supportive, even as they bear the brunt of parents’ mistrust and confusion.

Viewpoint: ‘The battle to feed humanity is over”: Eco-pessimist Paul Ehrlich leaves a legacy of misinformation about the mortal threat of overpopulation Matt Ridley | Rational Optimist Society | March 20, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/03/20/viewpoint-the-battle-to-feed-humanity-is-over-eco-pessimist-paul-ehrlich-leaves-a-legacy-of-misinformation-about-the-mortal-threat-of-over-population/ The butterfly biologist turned rock-star eco-pessimist, Paul Ehrlich has died at the age of 93. That in itself is remarkable because in 1970 he forecast that within the coming decade “100-200 million people per year will be starving to death” and “by 1985 enough millions will have died to reduce the earth’s population to some acceptable level, like 1.5 billion people”. Furthermore, by 1980 the life expectancy of the average American would have fallen 42 years as a result of cancer caused by pesticides.

Send women to jail for decades for having an abortion? Extremist Republicans get pushback, even from some in their own party Bram Sable-Smith, Lauren Sausser | March 19, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/03/19/send-women-to-jail-for-decades-for-having-an-abortion-extremist-republicans-get-pushback-even-from-some-in-their-own-party/ When a trio of Republican state lawmakers introduced a bill last year that would subject women who obtain abortions to decades in prison, some reproductive rights advocates feared South Carolina might pass the “most extreme” abortion ban in the United States.

Viewpoint: In defense of plastics (and a rebuttal of ideology-infused misinterpretations of risk science) David Zaruk | March 20, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/03/20/viewpoint-in-defense-of-plastics-and-a-rebuttal-of-ideology-infused-misinterpretations-of-risk-science/ Close observers will note that journalists in the legacy press have a perplexing habit of engaging in outright activism for their pet ideological causes while insisting they’re merely reporting the facts to their readers. You would expect, for example, a college volunteer for Greenpeace to declare that “We need a total revamp of how products are priced to account for their impacts on the environment,” but certainly not an investigative journalist for one of America’s largest newspapers. Likewise, someone who advocates for “regulatory measures that mandate companies to make design changes to products known to leach microplastics” is not engaged in reporting by any sensible definition.

Antifungal Susceptibility Test Interpretive Criteria

https://www.fda.gov/drugs/development-resources/antifungal-susceptibility-test-interpretive-criteria?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

Commissioner’s National Priority Voucher (CNPV) Pilot Program Public Hearing June 12, 2026

https://www.fda.gov/news-events/commissioners-national-priority-voucher-cnpv-pilot-program-public-hearing-06122026?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery As part of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s continuous quality improvement efforts, the agency today published a Federal Register Notice seeking public comment on the Commissioner’s National Priority Voucher pilot program. The agency also announced a public hearing on June 12, to allow stakeholders to present information and views about the program. https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/03/23/2026-05573/commissioners-national-priority-voucher-cnpv-pilot-program-public-hearing-request-for-comments The public hearing, consistent with 21 CFR § 15.1 et seq., will seek feedback about the program’s eligibility criteria, the voucher selection processes, sponsor responsibilities, pre-submission requirements, FDA review procedures, the role of the CNPV Review Council, and other aspects of program implementation. The CNPV pilot program was established in June 2025 to address critical public health needs by providing an ultra-fast review pathway for drugs and biological products of strategic national importance while maintaining the FDA’s rigorous scientific and regulatory standards. So far, the agency has awarded vouchers for 18 products and granted four approvals, including two approvals for oncology drugs delivered 44 and 55 days after filing. https://www.fda.gov/industry/commissioners-national-priority-voucher-cnpv-pilot-program?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery “National priority vouchers are a game changer for patients waiting for life-changing therapies,” said FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, M.D., M.P.H. “As a clinician who has been frustrated at the bedside by a lack of available treatment options, I’m excited about the potential of this program’s future following a very successful first year. As with all of our new initiatives, we are seeking input on how we can better meet the needs of the American people.” Companies that are awarded a national priority voucher have a product that aligns with one or more national health priorities, including bringing innovative therapies to the American people, addressing large unmet medical needs, promoting domestic manufacturing, and increasing affordability. Recipients are issued a nontransferable “voucher” entitling them to expedited FDA review of a single application with enhanced regulatory engagement. The program radically increases efficiency by reducing idle time, while maintaining safety as the top priority. Key features include: Expedited pre-filing period. Target of 1-2 months from filing to action (compared to nearly a year). Enhanced pre-submission engagement, which facilitates earlier correction of issues (e.g., chemistry, manufacturing, and controls (CMC) and inspection) that can lead to review cycle extensions. Multidisciplinary review approach culminating with a CNPV Review Council meeting with senior leadership and lead review staff. The June 12 public hearing will be held at the FDA’s White Oak Headquarters with both an in-person and virtual option for participation. The FDA panelists will include subject matter experts from the Office of the Commissioner, the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, and the Oncology Center of Excellence, as well as a presiding officer. Requests to speak are due by May 1. The FDA is also soliciting written comments until June 27. For more information about the hearing: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/commissioners-national-priority-voucher-cnpv-pilot-program-public-hearing-06122026.

Watch: Affordability Plagues Health Care in Its Shift From Nonprofit to Profit Machine By Julie Rovner March 19, 2026

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/watch-health-care-affordability-drew-altman-interview/?utm_campaign=KFF-This-Week&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8PC9dVj083Wii1EzFEkHfkoPplARP97N-vszmXG10xNBJeqiDXJfQULZetkcEvy18oQr3nOhZsrZPjX0yKUU98BDPSFg&_hsmi=409789188&utm_content=409789188&utm_source=hs_email Watch: Affordability Plagues Health Care in Its Shift From Nonprofit to Profit Machine On “What the Health? From KFF Health News,” chief Washington correspondent and host Julie Rovner sat down with Dr. Drew Altman to talk about the likelihood of a national health care debate.

Navigating Uncertainty: The Latest Challenge to the Title X Family Planning Safety Net Published: March 16, 2026

https://www.kff.org/quick-take/navigating-uncertainty-the-latest-challenge-to-the-title-x-family-planning-safety-net/?utm_campaign=KFF-This-Week&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8YGRIQCwsEAq6MaD7S91wwk9uX6Xh2vrmAu_8tAkhLSpQE-VJ--RFxdoiOZFoKtU4-XH1kg6g1U2o8zzJFY2-Fvy1_nA&_hsmi=409789188&utm_content=409789188&utm_source=hs_email “The Administration's latest funding deadline and guidance shift intensifies pressure to the reproductive health safety net at a time when the number of uninsured individuals is projected to rise due to Medicaid cuts and expiration of enhanced Affordable Care Act premium tax credits, and Planned Parenthood clinics have lost their federal Medicaid funding.”

The Court’s Opening Shot on Federal Vaccine Policy Changes Published: March 17, 2026

https://www.kff.org/quick-take/the-courts-opening-shot-on-federal-vaccine-policy-changes/?utm_campaign=KFF-This-Week&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8LL_XdpefsWdR-yXeTJzlfJcu8bXzf7O7bRwwxIEGCUM1Dotr53jaorRPF-qx63tZkBulLmar7SYb5d__J1XB484QgnA&_hsmi=409789188&utm_content=409789188&utm_source=hs_email “A growing number of states, reaching 30 as of March, have announced that they are no longer following CDC recommendations as their benchmark for some or all childhood vaccines... The court’s stay does not change these states’ decisions and in some ways may allow them to avoid a potential ‘ping pong’ of federal vaccine policy that could result from future legal rulings or actions by the administration.”

Are the Tradeoffs from Prior Authorization Worth It? Author: Drew Altman Published: Mar 16, 2026

https://www.kff.org/from-drew-altman/are-the-tradeoffs-from-prior-authorization-worth-it/?utm_campaign=KFF-This-Week&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--Z8kS-NZ1TCrUONwvdDZ1ecYjbZCCTWyUUgmsqJP_t89FJSg_YOgtrfl8Sd8x5YSWgdVwj0c0J797_hosSdL8Nyps3XQ&_hsmi=409789188&utm_content=409789188&utm_source=hs_email Are the Tradeoffs from Prior Authorization Worth It? In his latest column, President and CEO Dr. Drew Altman asks if prior authorization review could be eliminated entirely, discussing how it might be done and the tradeoffs. Costs are the health care problem that most worry the American people. But nothing makes American health care consumers more frustrated using the health system than prior authorization review. I know because they told us that, ranking prior authorization review far ahead of any other problems they have getting care and navigating the health care system, including getting appointments and understanding their bills. Four in 10 people with chronic conditions say it’s their single biggest burden getting health care.

Cost Concerns and Coverage Changes: A Follow-Up Survey of ACA Marketplace Enrollees Authors: Lunna Lopes, Isabelle Valdes, Grace Sparks, Mardet Mulugeta, and Ashley Kirzinger Published: Mar 19, 2026

https://www.kff.org/public-opinion/a-follow-up-survey-of-aca-marketplace-enrollees/?utm_campaign=KFF-This-Week&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8uo0n1udHS61Su2P16nZVTVI4ZBkt0xOSr1ZCsP282wiEjjaCVtEHJZL00FHMVS7RMOkXQ0i5UPwuOn3cPROlnoG7h_A&_hsmi=409789188&utm_content=409789188&utm_source=hs_email At the end of 2025, despite a government shutdown over the policy, the enhanced premium tax credits expired, decreasing financial assistance for subsidized Marketplace enrollees and contributing to significant increases in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace costs for most enrollees overall. Amid the debates leading up to the expiration, KFF conducted a probability-based survey of 1,350 adults covered by ACA Marketplace plans in late 2025 to better understand their worries about potential cost increases for their health coverage. Now—without the enhanced tax credits in place—KFF re-interviewed 1,117 individuals (more than 80% of the original sample) to learn how they are navigating these changes to the ACA Marketplace. https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/kff-poll-aca-obamacare-higher-premiums-blame-trump-gop/?utm_campaign=KFF-This-Week&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9grj-S7WFOYgTQwgJY540C371l7Eq8YKIdOveuEGUUaDLEscfYA6nd5MaxwNMvvrPWNn1RpCVFyf5vuTduuIH2DGPiKA&_hsmi=409789188&utm_content=409789188&utm_source=hs_email A new KFF follow-up survey of Marketplace enrollees that KFF surveyed in late 2025 finds that half (51%) of returning enrollees say their health care costs are “a lot higher” this year compared to last year, before the enhanced premium tax credits expired, including four in 10 who specifically say their premiums are “a lot higher.” In all, a large majority (80%) of these enrollees say their health care costs, which can include premiums, deductibles, co-pays, or coinsurance, are higher.

Journalists Shine Light on Out-of-Reach Insurance Prices, AI’s Role in Claims Disputes, and Susie Wiles March 21, 2026

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/on-air-march-21-2026-insurance-prices-measles-spread-ai-vaccine-ruling-susie-wiles/

FDA Is Requiring Warning about Vitamin B6 Deficiency and Associated Seizures for Drug Products Containing Carbidopa/Levodopa FDA Drug Safety Communication

https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-requiring-warning-about-vitamin-b6-deficiency-and-associated-seizures-drug-products-containing?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery FDA Is Requiring Warning about Vitamin B6 Deficiency and Associated Seizures for Drug Products Containing Carbidopa/Levodopa The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has notified application holders for all drug products containing carbidopa/levodopa that the Agency is requiring the addition of a warning, and corresponding revisions, to the prescribing information to state that these medications, approved to treat symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, can cause vitamin B6 deficiency and vitamin B6 deficiency-associated seizures. The warning directs health care professionals to evaluate baseline vitamin B6 levels prior to starting patients on treatment with carbidopa/levodopa therapies and periodically while on treatment and to supplement with vitamin B6 as necessary.

What to Know About Medicare Coverage of Telehealth Authors: Alex Cottrill, Juliette Cubanski, and Tricia Neuman Published: Mar 19, 2026

https://www.kff.org/medicare/what-to-know-about-medicare-coverage-of-telehealth/

Cost Concerns and Coverage Changes: A Follow-Up Survey of ACA Marketplace Enrollees Authors: Lunna Lopes, Isabelle Valdes, Grace Sparks, Mardet Mulugeta, and Ashley Kirzinger Published: Mar 19, 2026

https://www.kff.org/public-opinion/a-follow-up-survey-of-aca-marketplace-enrollees/

HEALTH CARE COSTS AND COVERAGE ++

HEALTH CARE COSTS AND COVERAGE ABC News: 1 In 10 ACA Enrollees Dropped Their Coverage Due To Rising Health Care Costs: Poll https://abcnews.com/Health/1-10-aca-enrollees-dropped-coverage-due-rising/story?id=131178596&utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9PN7US4jP4IqfhHvasV9uXNovh02y2x4ml_DVVP0cSYKuGWx8nEYel5Djo12EpMyWfN-49ylfKjGcLxspAlgLkzDOFWg&_hsmi=409751067&utm_content=409751067&utm_source=hs_email When Jessica Chamberlain went to sign up for health insurance coverage under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) for 2026, she not prepared for the sticker shock. Last year, Chamberlain was paying $59.67 in monthly premiums. This year, she would be paying nearly $100. The 43-year-old mother of two from Illinois said she was floored to see her monthly premiums were nearly doubling. (Kekatos, 3/19) The CT Mirror: Senate Dems Propose Their Own $200M 'CT Option' Health Care Bill https://ctmirror.org/2026/03/19/ct-option-health-care-senate-dems/?utm_campaign=KHN%3A%20First%20Edition&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--xWVRVya94PW1IgnkEcTHcDnJ0E1QOC0HNaqaAkFNj36QlBzaapdg-EhVVPuAYYPy4T3N_2KlRa8hL9nCLAjYESnji-g&_hsmi=409751067&utm_content=409751067&utm_source=hs_email 2026 is the year of the “Connecticut option.” On Thursday, the Human Services Committee passed a Connecticut option proposal put forth by Senate Democrats — separate from the policy proposal by the same name that Gov. Ned Lamont has been touting on the campaign trail and mentioned in his State of the State address in February. (Golvala, 3/19)

KFF Follow-Up Survey of Marketplace Enrollees: Following End of Enhanced Credits, Half of Marketplace Enrollees Now Say Costs Are a Lot Higher, Most Expect to Cut Back on Basic Household Expenses to Afford Coverage

https://www.kff.org/public-opinion/a-follow-up-survey-of-aca-marketplace-enrollees/?utm_campaign=KFF-Health-Costs&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9SehQugyAgfBPaW8rMjvh04Lc3uUE0pHqCmYlhLRsu8aPYCdvxBToCcQSz04i6T92-NbDgMBstEpG_X0Ca4Cb6EL2MyQ&_hsmi=409485493&utm_content=409485493&utm_source=hs_email One in 10 Dropped Their Marketplace Coverage and Are Now Uninsured and Three in 10 Switched ACA Plans, Most Citing High Costs Following the expiration of the enhanced premium tax credits for people with Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace plans, a new KFF follow-up survey of the same Marketplace enrollees KFF surveyed in 2025 finds half (51%) of returning enrollees say their health care costs are “a lot higher” this year compared to last year, including four in 10 who specifically say their premiums are “a lot higher.” In all, a large majority (80%) of these enrollees say their health care costs, which can include premiums, deductibles, co-pays, or coinsurance, are higher. This new survey, which was fielded about a month after open enrollment ended in most states and before the grace period to make payments ends for many enrollees, re-interviewed Marketplace enrollees who shared their expectations for their coverage decisions late last year. It also finds that nearly one in six (17%) returning ACA Marketplace enrollees say they are not confident they will be able to afford their premiums this year. For those who kept the same Marketplace plans, the expiration of the ACA’s enhanced premium tax credits in 2025 is estimated to have increased annual premium payments by more than two-fold on average this year. Responding to Rising Health Costs Among those who re-enrolled in an ACA Marketplace plan, a majority (55%) say they have cut or plan to cut spending on food or other basic household expenses to afford their health care costs. The impact is even greater for those with chronic health conditions, more than six in 10 (62%) of whom say they are, or will be, cutting back on food and other basics. Bzua3-returning-marketplace-enrollees-are-paying-more-for-their-2026-aca-coverage-and-will-cut-back-on-spending-many-not-confident-they-can-afford-premiums-all-year- (1) Marketplace enrollees are also concerned about their ability to pay for both routine and unexpected medical expenses. About three in four (73%) returning Marketplace enrollees say they are “very worried” or “somewhat worried” about being able to afford costs for emergency care or hospitalizations while about half are worried about affording costs for routine medical visits (49%) or prescription drugs (45%). “The impacts on Marketplace enrollees we see in this follow-up survey will likely get worse as people struggle to make payments and the grace period many have expires,” KFF President and CEO Drew Altman said. For some, rising costs have already forced them to make tough choices. About one in 10 (9%) Marketplace enrollees dropped their ACA coverage and are now uninsured and another nearly three in 10 (28%) changed Marketplace plans. When asked why they decided to drop or change their coverage, most cited costs: A 63-year-old man in California describes why he is uninsured now: “The end of ACA subsidies caused a huge increase in premiums, the cost of which I could not afford.” 56-year-old man in Texas explains why he switched to a different Marketplace plan: “Income exceeded the subsidy limit, forcing us to pay the full cost, so we switched down to a bronze from a gold plan. Even doing that our premiums are 3 times what they were in 2025, with lower plan features and a higher deductible.” In all, seven in 10 (69%) of those who had ACA Marketplace coverage in 2025 have re-enrolled in a plan through the Marketplace, while others became eligible for different types of health insurance coverage either through an employer (5%) or through Medicare (4%) or Medicaid (7%). A small share (5%) purchased health plans outside of the ACA Marketplace, which typically provide less comprehensive coverage and have fewer consumer protections than Marketplace plans. Even in years with few policy changes, shifts across Marketplace plans or to other types of coverage are normal and often follow changes in employment, income, age, and other life circumstances. Looking Ahead to the Midterms Among returning Marketplace enrollees who saw higher health costs, seven in 10 (70%) blame health insurance companies “a lot” for their increased costs and at least half place “a lot” of blame on congressional Republicans (54%), President Trump (53%), or pharmaceutical companies (52%). While majorities of partisans place “a lot” of blame on lawmakers from the opposite party, independents with Marketplace coverage are more likely to say Congressional Republicans (56%) and President Trump (58%) deserve “a lot” of blame than Congressional Democrats (28%). Three-quarters of those who had Marketplace coverage in 2025 and are registered to vote say health care costs will affect their decision to vote (73%) and which party’s candidate they will support (74%). Democrats are more than twice as likely as Republicans to say it will have a major impact on their decision to vote (67% vs. 27%) and which candidate they may support (70% vs. 30%). Among independent voters, nearly half say the issue will have a major impact on their decision to vote (47%) and which candidate they will support (44%). Picture2-1 Designed and analyzed by public opinion researchers at KFF, this survey, which builds on a 2025 survey of ACA Marketplace enrollees, re-interviewed more than 80% of the original sample to learn how they are navigating changes to the ACA Marketplace. The survey was conducted February 12 - March 2, 2026, online and by telephone, in English and in Spanish, among a nationally representative sample of 1,117 U.S. adults who had ACA Marketplace coverage in 2025 and completed the initial KFF survey. The margin of sampling error is plus or minus four percentage points for the full sample. For results based on other subgroups, the margin of sampling error may be higher.

Morning Briefing: Today's News Summaries Friday, Mar 20 2026 UPDATED 9:17 AM ++++++ + +

Morning Briefing: Today's News Summaries Friday, Mar 20 2026 UPDATED 9:17 AM 9% Of ACA Marketplace Enrollees Drop Coverage, Cite Rising Health Care Costs In a KFF poll, 80% of respondents said that all health care costs are higher than last year, and 55% said they will have to reduce spending on food and basic household expenses to afford care. Meanwhile, 9% have had to drop coverage altogether and are now uninsured. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/9-of-aca-marketplace-enrollees-drop-coverage-cite-rising-health-care-costs/ RFK Jr. Improperly Reshaped US Policy On Trans Health Care, Judge Rules The judge agreed with states that the government didn't follow long-standing procedures when it altered policy, noting, “The notion that ‘I will go forward and issue a declaration and see if we can get away with it’ is not a principle of governance.” Plus, the uncertainty of ACIP. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/rfk-jr-improperly-reshaped-us-policy-on-trans-health-care-judge-rules/ Georgia Woman, Suspected Of Taking Abortion Pill, Is Charged With Murder Georgia bans abortion after embryonic cardiac activity can be detected, usually about six weeks into a pregnancy. Medical records estimated the woman had been pregnant for 22 to 24 weeks, AP reported. Plus: Mississippi and Ohio lawmakers weigh abortion restrictions; Wyoming and Massachusetts note patient counts at clinics; and more. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/georgia-woman-suspected-of-taking-abortion-pill-is-charged-with-murder/ Fluoride Bans Will Increase Cavities In Kids, Medicaid Costs By Millions: Study The data analysis by CareQuest Institute for Oral Health shows that a significant increase in kids' cavities could raise Medicaid costs by over $40 million within three years. Florida banned community water fluoridation last year and is seeing an additional 52,131 children needing dental care. Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, and Oklahoma are all working on legislation to ban it or make it optional. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/fluoride-bans-will-increase-cavities-in-kids-medicaid-costs-by-millions-study/ Using A Weight Loss Drug? Get Ready For A Wave Of New Options About 10 weeks after the FDA approved a groundbreaking weight loss pill, federal regulators are now reviewing a second pill, CNN says. Meanwhile, the FDA says yes to a higher-dose Wegovy shot; results from Eli Lilly's newest medication show it reportedly helped diabetic patients lose more weight than any drug on the market; and Ozempic and Wegovy are going generic in Canada, India, and China. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/using-a-weight-loss-drug-get-ready-for-a-wave-of-new-options/ Type 1 Diabetes Tied To Higher Dementia Risk As Patients Live Longer Plus: A study found that higher meat intake was tied to better cognitive outcomes in people with a certain genetic risk for Alzheimer's disease, MedPage Today reported. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/type-1-diabetes-tied-to-higher-dementia-risk-as-patients-live-longer/ Longer Looks: Interesting Reads You Might Have Missed https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/longer-looks-interesting-reads-you-might-have-missed-256/ Each week, KFF Health News finds longer stories for you to enjoy. Today's selections are on ICE detention, pacemakers, Candy Land, and more. Viewpoints: IUD Insertion Doesn’t Have To Be Painful; Loophole In No Surprises Act Is Being Exploited https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/viewpoints-iud-insertion-doesnt-have-to-be-painful-loophole-in-no-surprises-act-is-being-exploited/

Listen: Trump’s NIH ‘Reset’ Is Driving Away Scientists By Rachana Pradhan March 20, 2026

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/wamu-health-hub-listen-trump-nih-worker-exodus-scientists-public-health/ LISTEN: Fewer breakthroughs. Weaker responses to public health crises. That’s what some former National Institutes of Health scientists predict for the agency as thousands of researchers leave. Workers from the Washington, D.C., region spoke with KFF Health News senior correspondent Rachana Pradhan, and she appeared on WAMU’s “Health Hub” on March 18 to explain what’s behind the exodus.

‘How Low Can You Go?’ The Shifting Guidelines for Blood Pressure Control By Paula Span March 20, 2026

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/high-blood-pressure-hypertension-dementia-risks-new-old-age/ The patient initially came to see Mark Supiano in 2017 because her family was concerned about her short-term memory loss.

Oz Escalates Medicaid Fraud Claims Against States After Focus on Minnesota By Bram Sable-Smith March 20, 2026

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/medicaid-fraud-dr-oz-minnesota-california-maine-new-york-florida/ The Trump administration has signaled a willingness to halt billions of dollars in federal health payments to multiple states, mirroring moves they made against Minnesota.

ASPR Strategic Plan Fiscal Year 2026-2029

https://aspr.hhs.gov/StratPlan/Pages/default.aspx

How PAHPA Strengthened State and Local Resilience Through Workforce Flexibility

https://aspr.hhs.gov/ASPRBlog/Pages/BlogDetailView.aspx?ItemID=507 Recognizing the 20th Anniversary of the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Act Twenty years ago, the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Act (PAHPA) was signed into law, creating the position of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response and the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response. Read Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary John Knox's reflections on what the anniversary means and the importance of reauthorizing PAHPA below. https://aspr.hhs.gov/ASPRBlog/Pages/BlogDetailView.aspx?ItemID=504

ASPR TRACIE Webinar "Play to Win" Focuses on Healthcare, Public Health Preparedness for World Cup, Other Mass Gatherings

https://files.asprtracie.hhs.gov/documents/play-to-win-healthcare-and-public-health-preparedness-for-mass-gatherings-webinar-ppt-.pdf

ASPR Blog Tranquil Passport Full-Scale Exercise: Strengthening U.S. Readiness to Safely Transport High-Consequence Infectious Disease Patients 2/4/2026 | Tschuna Patterson, Tranquil Passport Exercise Planning Lead

https://aspr.hhs.gov/ASPRBlog/Pages/BlogDetailView.aspx?ItemID=506 In an increasingly interconnected world, infectious disease threats do not stop at borders. Preparing to safely move patients with highly dangerous infections—while protecting health care workers, responders, and the public—is a critical part of national health security. That challenge was the focus of the 2025 Tranquil Passport Full-Scale Exercise, a national preparedness effort led by the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

New Cybersecurity Module in RISC 2.0 Toolkit Allows Healthcare and Public Health Organizations to Better Analyze Cyber Threats 3/5/2026 | Brian Mazanec, Deputy Assistant Secretary & Director, ASPR Center for Preparedness

https://aspr.hhs.gov/ASPRBlog/Pages/BlogDetailView.aspx?ItemID=508 The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) recently released a new cybersecurity module within the Risk Identification and Site Criticality (RISC) 2.0 Toolkit. The RISC Toolkit is a free, web-based platform where public and private organizations within the healthcare and public health sector can conduct risk assessments by identifying threats, assessing vulnerabilities, determining consequences and criticality, and sharing findings with stakeholders. ASPR has integrated the new cybersecurity module into the existing RISC 2.0 platform, allowing facilities, health systems, and coalitions to analyze cyber risk alongside other hazards in one unified tool.

ASPR Invests Millions to Strengthen Domestic Production of Critical Medicines Pharmaceutical Ingredients, Reducing Reliance on Foreign Resources +++

ASPR Invests Millions to Strengthen Domestic Production of Critical Medicines Pharmaceutical Ingredients, Reducing Reliance on Foreign Resources https://aspr.hhs.gov/newsroom/Pages/NewsRoomHome.aspx Save the Date! IBMSC Industry Summit 2026 Will Collect Industry Feedback to Inform Development of the First-ever HHS Industrial Base Policy Framework https://aspr.hhs.gov/IBMSC/IndustrySummit2026/Pages/default.aspx DATE AND TIME April 21, 2026 BARDA Launches $100 Million Prize Competition to Spur Innovation in Broad-spectrum,Small-molecule Antivirals Targeting Viruses in the Togaviridae and Flaviviridae Families https://aspr.hhs.gov/newsroom/Pages/SMART-Antiviral-Prize-Feb2026.aspx Today, the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), within the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), in collaboration with VITAL – a BARDA Accelerator Network Hub – opened solicitations for the SMART Antiviral Prize, a $100M initiative supporting development of broad-spectrum, small-molecule antiviral therapies targeting viruses in the Togaviridae and Flaviviridae families.

Downtime Details for Continuity of Care: Operationalizing Cyber Resiliency in Health Care: A Free Project ECHO Webinar Schedule for 12:00 pm Easter, April 14

https://iecho.org/public/program/PRGM1703002309004M2CX1LFEND

Strengthening Health Care Cyber Resilience: A Free ASPR Webinar on the RISC 2.0 Cybersecurity Module Schedule for 2:00 pm Eastern, March 30

https://aspr.hhs.gov/RISC/Pages/RISC-Webinar.aspx When cyber incidents disrupt the delivery of patient care, the consequences extend far beyond IT. As cyber risks continue to evolve, health care leaders need clarity when assessing their organization’s defenses.

Medical Care for Adults With Down Syndrome

https://effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov/products/care-adults-down-syndrome/research Review Finds Major Evidence Gaps in Adult Down Syndrome Care As AHRQ prepares to mark World Down Syndrome Day tomorrow, March 21, a new systematic review funded by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute and conducted through AHRQ finds that recent increases in lifespan among individuals with Down syndrome have contributed to knowledge gaps and a lack of appropriate care for adults with the condition. Research shows that adults with Down syndrome experience higher rates of certain health conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, sleep apnea, obesity, hypothyroidism, diabetes, cataracts, leukemia, osteoporosis, depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder. They also have lower rates of many solid tumor cancers, including breast, cervical, colorectal and lung cancer, and some cardiovascular diseases.

Pyrogen and Endotoxins Testing: Questions and Answers Guidance for Industry March 2026

https://www.fda.gov/regulatory-information/search-fda-guidance-documents/pyrogen-and-endotoxins-testing-questions-and-answers?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

WEBINAR: Navigating Orphan Medicines Regulation: Strategic Insights from the US and Europe – April 14th, 10:00 to 11:00 ET March 19, 2026

https://www.thefdalawblog.com/2026/03/webinar-navigating-orphan-medicines-regulation-strategic-insights-from-the-us-and-europe-april-14th-1000-to-1100-et/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=webinar-navigating-orphan-medicines-regulation-strategic-insights-from-the-us-and-europe-april-14th-1000-to-1100-et As regulatory frameworks for orphan medicinal products continue to evolve on both sides of the Atlantic, understanding the practical and strategic implications is increasingly important. On M April 14th, 10:00 to 11:00 ET, Pinsent Masons and Hyman, Phelps & McNamara, P.C. are pleased to host a joint webinar. Catherine Drew, Partner, Pinsent Masons and Sara W. Koblitz, Director, Hyman, Phelps & McNamara will share insights into current trends and emerging issues in orphan medicines regulation and compliance. (Please note that this webinar has been rescheduled from the original date of 17 March 2026.)

No, GRAS Isn’t Just About Vinegar March 20, 2026 By Ricardo Carvajal —

No, GRAS Isn’t Just About Vinegar March 20, 2026 By Ricardo Carvajal — It gets repeated as an article of faith: The generally recognized as safe (GRAS) exception to the definition of “food additive” in section 201(s) of the FD&C Act was intended to encompass only common food ingredients such as vinegar and salt. https://www.thefdalawblog.com/2026/03/no-gras-isnt-just-about-vinegar/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=no-gras-isnt-just-about-vinegar

Cost Concerns and Coverage Changes: A Follow-Up Survey of ACA Marketplace Enrollees Authors: Lunna Lopes, Isabelle Valdes, Grace Sparks, Mardet Mulugeta, and Ashley Kirzinger Published: Mar 19, 2026

https://www.kff.org/public-opinion/a-follow-up-survey-of-aca-marketplace-enrollees/

Eight Trends Shaping 2026 Healthcare Costs By Lynne Cotter, Emma Wager Twitter, Hattie Xu, Tom Lebert, Julia Harris, Brad Brockbank, and Matthew Rae Twitter March 17, 2026

https://www.healthsystemtracker.org/chart-collection/eight-trends-shaping-2026-healthcare-costs/?utm_campaign=KFF-Peterson&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--vZm8jAnIgDZV0q52uD1wCPc6H1h0w9nnoYQg0Xqc6m7IeTYe3D1MtxBzS0-7wDGV_zUkyhl0X4Yoxs7yH7yFK8zbddQ&_hsmi=409193873&utm_content=409193873&utm_source=hs_email Trends Shaping 2026 Health Care Costs Health care affordability is top of mind for many Americans, rising well above other necessities based on recent KFF polling. A new Peterson-KFF policy explainer lays out the health care trends shaping the 2026 policy debates, including: A broad increase in premiums, with particularly big increases in costs for Affordable Care Act Marketplace enrollees due to the expiration of enhanced premium tax credits, Public and private interest in addressing the increase in U.S. spending on prescription drugs, Growing support for increased health care price transparency, Federal and state interest in addressing the impacts of health care consolidation, An acceleration in the use of artificial intelligence in health care, Funding cuts and Medicaid program implementation pressures on states, and Rapid state actions to make use of the Rural Health Transformation funds. The Peterson-KFF Health System Tracker is an online hub monitoring how well the U.S. health system is operating through key quality and cost measures. https://www.healthsystemtracker.org/?utm_campaign=KFF-Peterson&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--gOTmCj9InurrCZSXTEjI2YUg4S6GJ5up84MN5IJKRtIrb4hmQgPnAI6aOgP0yRm8a2CpawPOOvn6KwB4M6dYjkkc9LA&_hsmi=409193873&utm_content=409193873&utm_source=hs_email

Viewpoints: Lessons From Aftermath Of Toxic Train Wreck In Ohio; The US Health Crisis Is A Design Flaw

https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/viewpoints-lessons-from-aftermath-of-toxic-train-wreck-in-ohio-the-us-health-crisis-is-a-design-flaw/

Research Roundup: The Latest Science, Discoveries, And Breakthroughs

https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/research-roundup-the-latest-science-discoveries-and-breakthroughs-60/

Menopause Before 40 Leads To 40% Higher Risk Of Heart Attacks: Study

Menopause Before 40 Leads To 40% Higher Risk Of Heart Attacks: Study The study shows that women who undergo premature menopause have a higher risk of fatal and nonfatal heart attacks. Black women were found to be three times as likely as white women to experience premature menopause. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/menopause-before-40-leads-to-40-higher-risk-of-heart-attacks-study/

Wisconsin Expands Postpartum Medicaid Coverage To 12 Months

Wisconsin Expands Postpartum Medicaid Coverage To 12 Months The expanded coverage for new moms will begin July 1. Plus, looks at health care proposals that leaders and lawmakers are considering in Maine, Delaware, and Maryland. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/wisconsin-expands-postpartum-medicaid-coverage-to-12-months/

Medicare Issues Nationwide Enrollment Moratorium On New Medical Suppliers

Medicare Issues Nationwide Enrollment Moratorium On New Medical Suppliers As part of an ongoing Texas Medicare fraud case, the federal government has imposed a six‑month nationwide block for most new medical supply companies to prevent high‑risk suppliers from entering the system. Plus: AI delays care for some seniors; Stryker cyberattack disrupts surgery schedule; and more. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/medicare-issues-nationwide-enrollment-moratorium-on-new-medical-suppliers/

363 Pregnant, Postpartum Immigrants Deported In 13 Months Of Crackdown

363 Pregnant, Postpartum Immigrants Deported In 13 Months Of Crackdown The 19th breaks down the data from the Trump administration's crackdown on immigration from January 1, 2025, through Feb. 16, 2026, noting an uptick from previous years of immigrants who were deported. It also offers a picture of what is happening with prenatal care in immigration facilities. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/363-pregnant-postpartum-immigrants-deported-in-13-months-of-crackdown/

Senate Dems Unveil Framework To Try To Make Health Insurance Affordable

Senate Dems Unveil Framework To Try To Make Health Insurance Affordable The three goals of the Democrats' plan, Stat reports, are to make insurance affordable, make it simple, and end “corporate greed.” Meanwhile, a new survey finds that almost 1 in 10 Americans who had ACA plans last year dropped health insurance entirely, after federal subsidies expired and costs spiked. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/senate-dems-unveil-framework-to-try-to-make-health-insurance-affordable/

Covid Killed 155,000 More Americans In 2020-21 Than Thought, Study Finds

Covid Killed 155,000 More Americans In 2020-21 Than Thought, Study Finds Scientists dug into the death certificates of people who died of the virus in hospitals and compared the symptomology with those who died outside of care. They estimate the U.S. death toll was undercounted by 16%. Plus, "medical freedom" is putting public health at risk. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/covid-killed-155000-more-americans-in-2020-21-than-thought-study-finds/

Watch: Affordability Plagues Health Care in Its Shift From Nonprofit to Profit Machine By Julie Rovner March 19, 2026

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/watch-health-care-affordability-drew-altman-interview/ On What the Health? From KFF Health News, distributed by WAMU, chief Washington correspondent and host Julie Rovner sat down with Drew Altman, president and CEO of KFF, to talk about the likelihood of a national health care debate to rein in costs.

Many ACA Customers Are Paying Higher Premiums. Most Blame Trump and Republicans, Poll Finds. By Julie Appleby March 19, 2026

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/kff-poll-aca-obamacare-higher-premiums-blame-trump-gop/ Most people who get their health coverage through the Affordable Care Act say they face sharply higher costs, with many worried they will have to pare back other expenses to cover them, according to a poll released Thursday. Some are uncertain whether they will be able to continue paying their premiums all year.

Lawmakers Seek To Protect Crisis Pregnancy Centers as Abortion Clinic Numbers Shrink By Jazmin Orozco Rodriguez March 19, 2026

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/abortion-bans-clinics-crisis-pregnancy-centers-maternity-care-wyoming/ Conservative lawmakers in multiple states are pushing legislation drafted by an anti-abortion advocacy group to increase protections for crisis pregnancy centers, organizations that provide some health-related services but also work to dissuade women from having abortions.

Oz Says California’s Not Fighting Health Care Fraud, but Data Shows It’s Part of a Larger Battle By Don Thompson March 19, 2026

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/hospice-fraud-medicaid-mehmet-oz-cms-california/ SACRAMENTO, Calif. — For weeks, Mehmet Oz has been waging a public feud with California leaders over health care fraud, accusing the blue state of failing to adequately combat such abuse.

Physician Groups Applaud Decision That Pauses Childhood Vaccine Overhaul Alicia Ault March 17, 2026

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/physician-groups-applaud-decision-pauses-childhood-vaccine-2026a100086v?ecd=wnl_edit_tpal_etid8198738&uac=148436CN&impID=8198738

The Envelope Ceremony: How Match Day Traditions Are Evolving for a New Generation of Doctors Jodi Helmer March 19, 2026

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/envelope-ceremony-how-match-day-traditions-are-evolving-new-2026a10008dl?src=

When the Malpractice Suit Comes: A Mental Health Guide Dina Cheney March 19, 2026

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/when-malpractice-suit-comes-mental-health-guide-2026a10008eq

Community Pharmacists Poised to Transform Care Across Europe Laura Clavijo Villagrasa Medscape Europe March 19, 2026

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/community-pharmacists-poised-transform-care-across-europe-2026a10008e6

‘I HATE YOU’ and Other Things People Say to Their Doctors Eric Spitznagel March 19, 2026

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/i-hate-you-and-other-things-people-say-their-doctors-2026a10008fg

2026 CMS Burden Reduction Conference: Recordings and Key Takeaways

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLaV7m2-zFKpisX3okZEg5yq34qJzHjF6F On February 25, 2026, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) had the pleasure of hosting the 2026 CMS Burden Reduction Conference. Thank you to everyone who joined us, both in person and virtually, and contributed to such a thoughtful and energizing discussion. Conference videos are now available here. This year’s conference featured a keynote address from CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz, opening remarks from CMS Chief Operating Officer and Deputy Administrator Kim Brandt, closing remarks from CMS Center of Medicare Director, Deputy Administrator, and HHS Chief Counselor Chris Klomp, and panel discussions focused on: Increasing transparency in healthcare Transforming chronic care Using technology and AI tools to empower clinicians and patients What We Heard Across conversations, several clear and actionable themes stood out: A call for faster, more measurable action Stakeholders are looking to CMS to simplify requirements, better align programs, and deliver changes that are clear and trackable. Prior authorization is a top near-term opportunity Participants emphasized more standardized, transparent, and automated processes, including reduced documentation and real-time decisions. Stronger Medicare Advantage oversight can reduce downstream burden Clearer expectations and more consistent enforcement across MA plans were seen as key to reducing friction for providers and improving patient experience. Administrative burden impacts patient access Burden is not just operational, it contributes to delays in care, clinician burnout, and reduced capacity. Technology should reduce work, not add to it Stakeholders support AI and digital tools that eliminate manual processes and integrate into existing workflows. At CMS, we are committed to turning these insights into action, advancing meaningful, measurable changes that reduce burden and improve care. CMS also remains committed to continuing this dialogue and working alongside all of you as we move forward. Thank you again to the nearly 2,000 participants from across the country who made this conference such a success. The momentum from this conference is just the beginning and we’re excited for what’s ahead as we work together to improve patients’ lives by transforming how care is delivered and putting Patients over Paperwork!

Key Global Health Positions and Officials in the U.S. Government Published: Mar 17, 2026

https://www.kff.org/global-health-policy/key-u-s-government-agency-positions-and-officials-in-global-health-policy-related-areas/

The Court’s Opening Shot on Federal Vaccine Policy Changes Published: March 17, 2026

https://www.kff.org/quick-take/the-courts-opening-shot-on-federal-vaccine-policy-changes/

Viewpoints: ER Patients Deserve Better Than A Hallway Bed; Why Is There A ‘Culture Of Silence’ Around Ozempic?

https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/viewpoints-er-patients-deserve-better-than-a-hallway-bed-why-is-there-a-culture-of-silence-around-ozempic/

Bill Targeting ‘Forever Chemicals’ Awaits Wisconsin Governor’s Signature

Bill Targeting ‘Forever Chemicals’ Awaits Wisconsin Governor’s Signature On Tuesday, Wisconsin's Legislature sent the $133 million package to Gov. Tony Evers, a Democrat, who has said he will sign it. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/bill-targeting-forever-chemicals-awaits-wisconsin-governors-signature/

Study Links PFAS ‘Forever Chemicals’ To Decreased Bone Density In Kids

Study Links PFAS ‘Forever Chemicals’ To Decreased Bone Density In Kids Researchers found that the chemicals, particularly PFOA, may interfere with children developing their full potential for bone density, possibly raising the risk of fractures and osteoporosis later in life. Also: Eating more ultra-processed foods raises the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and dying from heart disease. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/study-links-pfas-forever-chemicals-to-decreased-bone-density-in-kids/

In A First, Smoking Rates Fell Below 10%; CDC Missed It Due To Cuts

In A First, Smoking Rates Fell Below 10%; CDC Missed It Due To Cuts Only 9.9% of U.S. adults reported smoking cigarettes in 2024 — a historic low — down from 10.8% in 2023. But federal cuts put an end to the CDC's Office of Smoking and Health last year, leaving them short on experts to analyze the data they had collected. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/in-a-first-smoking-rates-fell-below-10-cdc-missed-it-due-to-cuts/

Health Care Workers Might Get Relief From Trump’s $100K H-1B Visa Fee

Health Care Workers Might Get Relief From Trump’s $100K H-1B Visa Fee The bipartisan Physicians and the Healthcare Workforce Act, intended to stem the clinician shortage, also would restrict other fees beyond what is stipulated in immigration law. Plus, President Trump has been mostly mum about his housing affordability proposal that is stalled in Congress. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/health-care-workers-might-get-relief-from-trumps-100k-h-1b-visa-fee/

Order To Restore Prior Vaccine Policy Leaves 20 States, Clinicians In Limbo

Order To Restore Prior Vaccine Policy Leaves 20 States, Clinicians In Limbo The CDC has not updated its guidance on the childhood vaccine schedule, putting the states that signed onto Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s pared-down recommendations in a tough spot. The ruling also inadvertently blocks the use of a free monoclonal antibody that protects against RSV. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/order-to-restore-prior-vaccine-policy-leaves-20-states-clinicians-in-limbo/

VA Worker Hospitalized After Shooting At Outpatient Clinic In Rural Georgia

VA Worker Hospitalized After Shooting At Outpatient Clinic In Rural Georgia The injuries suffered by the unidentified employee, as well as their condition, are unclear. USA Today reported that police officers killed the shooter after confronting them at the clinic in Jasper, about 60 miles north of downtown Atlanta. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/va-worker-hospitalized-after-shooting-at-outpatient-clinic-in-rural-georgia/

Maker of Device To Treat Addiction Withdrawal Seeks Counties’ Opioid Settlement Cash By Aneri Pattani March 18, 2026

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/payback-opioid-settlements-net-recovery-device-opioid-withdrawal-spending-hype/ LOUISVILLE, Ky. — In the early 2000s, Michelle Warfield worked at a factory, hauling heavy seats for Ford trucks on and off an assembly line. To suppress daily aches in her back and hips, her doctor prescribed opioid painkillers.

Evidence Shows ACA’s Mandated Benefits Alone Don’t Drive Up Costs. The Debate Continues. By Julie Appleby and Sarah Boden March 18, 2026

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/obamacare-essential-health-benefits-premium-costs-debate/ In January, when President Donald Trump unveiled his one-page outline to address health care spending, dubbed “The Great Healthcare Plan,” he specifically mentioned the Affordable Care Act’s role in driving up costs.

Getting The Right Signal: Does Program Signaling Work? Lambeth Hochwald March 17, 2026

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/getting-right-signal-does-program-signaling-work-2026a100087i

EHR-Based Tobacco Treatment Boosts Maternal Cessation Rates Kelsey Mesmer March 18, 2026

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/ehr-based-tobacco-treatment-boosts-maternal-cessation-rates-2026a100088d

Will the UK Lose Senior Doctors Earlier Than EU Peers? Dr Sheena Meredith l Medscape Europe March 18, 2026

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/will-uk-lose-senior-doctors-earlier-than-eu-peers-2026a10008a0

QTc Information in Human Prescription Drug and Biological Product Labeling Guidance for Industry

https://www.fda.gov/media/170814/download?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery FDA Publishes Guidance with Recommendations on Including QTc Information in Drug Labeling The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently published the guidance for industry, QTc Information in Human Prescription Drug and Biological Product Labeling (December 2025). This guidance provides recommendations to help ensure clinically relevant information on heart rate-corrected QT (QTc) interval prolongation (certain changes in the electrical activity of the heart) is included in the U.S. Prescribing Information of non-antiarrhythmic prescription drugs (prescription drugs that do not treat arrhythmias). Some of these drugs can delay cardiac repolarization, an effect that can be measured on an electrocardiogram as QTc interval prolongation. This delay creates an electrophysiological environment that can contribute to torsade de pointes, which can progress to ventricular fibrillation and lead to sudden death. FDA recommends sponsors for most non-antiarrhythmic drugs with systemic bioavailability assess the effect on cardiac repolarization early in clinical development, including a clinical electrocardiographic evaluation. Examples of the guidance’s labeling recommendations: Including relevant clinical pharmacology-related information on the effects of the subject drug (the drug for which labeling is being created) on the QTc interval, including when clinically significant QTc interval prolongation was not observed. Including information on concomitant use of the subject drug with other products when the subject drug is: Known or suspected to prolong the QTc interval and the other products are also known or suspected to prolong the QTc interval. Associated with concentration-dependent QTc prolongation and the other product(s) increase concentrations of the subject drug. Including a QTc interval prolongation warning if the QTc interval prolongation is identified as a side effect or safety hazard that is serious or otherwise clinically significant because of implications for prescribing decisions or patient management. Including dosage modifications for the subject drug and the recommended frequency of ECG monitoring to reduce the risk of clinically relevant side effects of QTc interval prolongation.

Continuing Education Program Office Spotlight

https://www.iacet.org/ce-t-accreditation/who-recognizes-iacet-accreditation/ Continuing Education Program Office Spotlight CEPO kicked off its first Clinical Communities Speaker Series event of the year with its first-ever program centered around military medical readiness. The six-session event, “Operational Medicine: Preparing the Force for Mission Readiness,” featured speakers from government and academia who discussed a range of critical topics, including diagnosing and managing radiation exposure, delivering suicide prevention support in challenging environments, and making ethically complex operational decisions. With nearly 2,000 registrations, the event was the most highly attended program in the series to date. New! CEPO is now accredited by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training to provide IACET CEUs! With activities offering IACET credit currently in development, explore the list of organizations that accept IACET CEUs to fulfill continuing education requirements.

Clinical Communities Speaker Series Schedule Upcoming opportunities in 2026

Clinical Communities Speaker Series We created the Clinical Communities Speaker Series (CCSS) to advance the knowledge, skills, and practices of healthcare professionals and teams who support uniformed service members, veterans, and service members’ families. Sessions call on military and civilian experts to promote clinical best practices, interprofessional learning, and military readiness through a wide range of interdisciplinary topics. Clinical Communities Speaker Series Schedule https://www.dhaj7-cepo.com/content/ccss?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=november2025 Upcoming opportunities in 2026 Drawing in thousands of healthcare professionals across multiple disciplines, this flagship series calls on military and civilian experts from academia, government, and clinical care settings to discuss timely strategies and pressing topics affecting healthcare providers and teams throughout the enterprise.

Suicide and Military Environmental Exposures: Addressing Suicide Risk and Chronic Pain with Problem-Solving Therapy Veterans Health Administration On Demand Opportunity

Suicide and Military Environmental Exposures: Addressing Suicide Risk and Chronic Pain with Problem-Solving Therapy Veterans Health Administration On Demand Opportunity Patients with chronic pain in the U.S. have a 2.6-times greater risk of suicide. With an often unmet opportunity to integrate suicide prevention into their treatment for pain, this activity examines a pilot study assessing Problem-Solving Therapy as a treatment to reduce suicide risk among veterans with chronic pain and military exposure concerns. https://www.train.org/vha/course/1133912/details

Training to Competence, not Compliance: Feedback in Clinical Training Friday, April 17, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. ET

Training to Competence, not Compliance: Feedback in Clinical Training Friday, April 17, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. ET Most mental health trainers and supervisors are not trained beyond a cursory course on supervision theory, often leading them to focus more on stylistic preferences than on objective competencies when providing feedback to trainees. This live, virtual activity highlights how structured feedback tools and systems, such as competency-based supervision, can clarify what competencies look like in practice and increase the fidelity of feedback. https://www.dhaj7-cepo.com/content/training-competence-not-compliance-feedback-clinical-training-0?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=march2026

JKO JMESI US108 Ready Reliable Care: DHA’s Journey to High Reliability

https://www.dhaj7-cepo.com/content/jko-us108-ready-reliable-care?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=march2026 Ready Reliable Care: DHA’s Journey to High Reliability Available On Demand (CAC required) Achieving top outcomes while operating in a complex or high-risk environment is no easy feat. Learn how DHA’s Ready Reliable Care strategy synchronizes high reliability efforts across MHS to drive unified progress. 1.00 CE/CME credit Credit available for AAPA, ACCME Non-Physician CME Credit, ACHE, ACPE, AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™, ANCC, APA, ASWB, and PMI.

Viewpoint: RFK, Jr.’s unethical plan to run a Tuskegee-like syphilis experiment in West Africa to ‘prove’ hepatitis B vaccines cause neurological damage Pete Shanks | March 17, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/03/17/viewpoint-rfk-jr-s-unethical-plan-to-run-a-tuskegee-like-syphilis-experiment-in-west-africa-to-prove-hepatitis-b-vaccines-cause-neurological-damage/

Viewpoint—After the vaccine policy wrecking ball: Taking stock one year after RFK, Jr. abandoned science Aimee Pugh Bernard, Elana Pearl BenJoseph, Izzy Brandstetter Figueroa, Jess Steier | March 17, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/03/17/viewpoint-after-the-vaccine-policy-wrecking-ball-taking-stock-one-year-after-rfk-jr-abandoned-science/

RFK, Jr. vaccine rebuke: Judge reverses Trump administration childhood and Covid vaccine policies Apoorva Mandavilli | March 17, 2026

https://geneticliteracyproject.org/2026/03/17/rfk-jr-vaccine-rebuke-judge-reverses-trump-administration-childhood-and-covid-vaccine-policies/

Birth Control Skepticism, Teen Fertility Education Center Stage at Trump’s Women’s Health Summit By Amanda Seitz March 16, 2026

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/hhs-women-health-conference-birth-control-teen-fertility-trump-rfk-maha/ KFF Health News: Birth Control Skepticism, Teen Fertility Education Center Stage At Trump's Women's Health Summit Surrounded by hot pink lights and cherry blossom pink drapes on a ballroom stage, family doctor Marguerite Duane offered a seemingly simple solution to infertility: Doctors should have conversations with young girls about whether they want to have children one day. “I have these conversations with children starting at 8, 10, 12 years old: What do you want to be when you grow up?” Duane said. If you’re a child who wants to be a doctor, for instance, “there are things you need to put in place. If you hope to have children one day, there are things that you need to consider and have the conversation early.” (Seitz, 3/16)

Psychiatrists’ Use of Biomarkers Could Open a New Window Into Mental Health Diagnoses By Jamie Ducharme March 17, 2026

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/psychiatry-biomarkers-mental-health-diagnoses-dsm/ KFF Health News: Psychiatrists’ Use Of Biomarkers Could Open A New Window Into Mental Health Diagnoses Amanda Miller was 30 and pregnant with her second child in Hershey, Pennsylvania, when she developed depression. After she gave birth, her depression worsened. It was joined by a slew of unexplained health problems. Miller, a neuroscientist, said she saw several psychiatrists and got prescriptions for drug after drug. Over two years, she tried four antidepressants and two antipsychotics. None of that helped — until her primary care doctor noticed high levels of an autoimmune marker in her blood. (Ducharme, 3/17)

Lost in Transmission: Changes in Organ Donor Status Can Fall Through Cracks in the System By Céline Gounder March 17, 2026

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/organ-donor-state-registries-consent-authorization-optn-opo-raven-kinser-virginia/ KFF Health News: Lost In Transmission: Changes In Organ Donor Status Can Fall Through Cracks In The System When Raven Kinser walked into a Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles office two summers ago, she completed a driver’s license application that included the option to register as an organ donor. The form provides a checkbox to opt in, but not one to opt out. Kinser left the donor registration box unchecked, reflecting her decision to reverse an earlier donor registration. Six months later, after she was declared dead at Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News, Virginia, her parents say, they learned that her decision did not prevent organ procurement. (Gounder, 3/17)

Morning Briefing: Today's News Summaries Tuesday, Mar 17 2026 8:34 AM +++ +++ +

Morning Briefing: Today's News Summaries Tuesday, Mar 17 2026 8:34 AM RFK Jr.'s Vaccine Policies Put On Hold; Judge Says Government Overstepped Judge Brian E. Murphy said that the government skirted the long-standing practice of following “a method scientific in nature” when it revised the childhood vaccine schedule and that it acted improperly when it remade the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/__trashed-12/ Thousands Of Kaiser Nurses Join Strike Over Use Of AI In Mental Health Care The one-day strike, slated for Wednesday, will see participation from the National Union of Health Care Workers and the California Nurses Association. Kaiser Permanente maintains that the unions are misrepresenting its push for AI inclusion, saying, "Many AI tools have the potential to help our clinicians spend more time focused on serving our members and patients."  https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/thousands-of-kaiser-nurses-join-strike-over-use-of-ai-in-mental-health-care/ People Taking GLP-1s Might Be Forced To Delay Certain Medical Procedures In a trial, some patients who took their GLP-1 drug while prepping for an endoscopy were found to have "clinically significant" content in their stomachs. Researchers suggested that patients should be advised to hold at least one dose of the medication or to reschedule the procedure in order to avoid the risks of aspiration or unplanned intubation. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/people-taking-glp-1s-might-be-forced-to-delay-certain-medical-procedures/ Marijuana Doesn't Help Mental Health Conditions, Analyses Find Two new reviews published Monday in the Lancet Psychiatry journal looked at data from 54 randomized controlled trials and found no evidence that any form of cannabis is effective in treating anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder. About 27% of people between 16 and 65 in the U.S. and Canada have used marijuana for medical purposes, with about half being for mental health purposes. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/marijuana-doesnt-help-mental-health-conditions-analyses-find/ NYC Reports Case Of 'Life-Threatening' Clade I Mpox That Spreads By Touching The patient, who recently traveled internationally, tested positive for mpox clade I, which presents with more severe symptoms and can be fatal. It is spread through direct or close contact, "not over longer distances by respiratory spread," a medical analyst told Fox News Digital. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/nyc-reports-case-of-life-threatening-clade-i-mpox-that-spreads-by-touching/ Raw Cheddar Tied To California E. Coli Outbreak, But Dairy Declines A Recall The FDA has said that Raw Farm cheddar is the likely source of an outbreak that has sickened at least five in California, one in Florida, and one in Texas. Other public health news is on vitamin D3 supplements, blood pressure guidelines, and more. https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/raw-cheddar-tied-to-california-e-coli-outbreak-but-dairy-declines-a-recall/ Viewpoints: California Governor Blasts Trump’s Handling Of Drug Crisis; How Nutrition Education Falls Short https://kffhealthnews.org/morning-breakout/viewpoints-california-governor-blasts-trumps-handling-of-drug-crisis-how-nutrition-education-falls-short/