New rules aim to curb insurance brokers and protect consumers; data highlights surge in post-pandemic hospital-onset infections; President Biden’s decision to step down highlights Harris’ stance on health care reform and equity.
Biden Administration Enacts Measures to Prevent Unauthorized ACA Plan Changes
In response to increasing complaints, the Biden administration has implemented strict regulations to prevent unauthorized changes to Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans by insurance brokers, according to Kaiser Health News. The new rules, effective immediately, require brokers to prove their association with a consumer’s policy before making any changes. This move is intended to safeguard consumers from unexpected plan switches and potential financial repercussions.
Infectious Disease Experts Urge for Increased Federal Funding Amid Rising Antimicrobial Resistance in Hospitals
Infectious disease professionals are calling for greater federal funding following new CDC data showing an increase in antimicrobial-resistant pathogens in hospitals, according to Fierce Healthcare. From 2019 to 2022, 6 out of 7 monitored infections have become more prevalent, with Candida auris cases rising almost five-fold. The Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America emphasized the need for sustained investments in infection control and prevention strategies, especially considering a recent House bill proposing significant cuts to CDC funding.
Kamala Harris Emerges as Leader on Health Policy Amid Presidential Endorsement
Vice President Kamala Harris has been a prominent advocate for President Biden's health initiatives, including maternal health improvements and the ACA, according to Managed Healthcare Executive®. With Biden announcing he won't seek re-election and endorsing Harris as the Democratic nominee, her health care views gain significant importance. Harris's leadership on extending postpartum Medicaid coverage and her staunch support for abortion rights underscore her commitment to health equity and access for all Americans.
ICYMI: Highlights From AMCP Nexus 2024
December 26th 2024Check out this year's top coverage from The Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP) Nexus 2024 meeting, which included relevant topics in health care policy, novel pharmaceutical developments, financial considerations across multiple conditions, and more.
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Year-End Spending Bill to Feature Reforms for Pharmacy Benefit Managers and Telehealth Access
December 18th 2024The health care provisions include key reforms targeting pharmacy benefit managers, extensions of Medicare telehealth flexibilities, and measures aimed at combating the opioid crisis and preparing for future pandemics.
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Exploring Racial, Ethnic Disparities in Cancer Care Prior Authorization Decisions
October 24th 2024On this episode of Managed Care Cast, we're talking with the author of a study published in the October 2024 issue of The American Journal of Managed Care® that explored prior authorization decisions in cancer care by race and ethnicity for commercially insured patients.
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