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What We're Reading: Administration Will Crack Down on ACA Deadlines
What we're reading, February 25, 2016: the government will require proof of eligibility for enrollment in special sign-up periods under the Affordable Care Act (ACA); this year's flu vaccine is more effective; and 6 states are suing the Obama administration over an ACA fee.
The Obama administration will require customers prove their eligibility for special enrollment periods under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), according to The Hill. Insurers had cited concerns that a lack of verification was leading some to sign up only when they got sick. In January, the administration also announced it would reduce the number of special sign-up periods.
This year’s flu vaccine is a better match for the strains making people sick, which means it is more effective compared with last year’s vaccine. Data show that the vaccine is 59% effective, which is far better than the vaccine that was less than 20% effective last flu season, reported AP. While this flu season has been milder, health officials say it has not peaked yet.
Six states are suing the Obama administration over a fee to cover the federal subsidies under the ACA. Texas, Wisconsin, Kansas, Louisiana, Indiana, and Nebraska are arguing that the healthcare law did not make it clear that states would have to pay the fee in addition to health insurers, reported The New York Times. The suit asks that the states be refunded what they already paid.
AI in Health Care: Balancing Governance, Innovation, and Trust
September 2nd 2025In this conversation with Reuben Daniel, associate vice president of artificial intelligence at UPMC Health Plan, we dive into how UPMC Health Plan builds trust with providers and members, discuss challenges of scaling AI effectively, and hear about concrete examples of AI's positive impact.
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Infertility Coverage Boosts ART Use and Pregnancy Success: Richard A. Brook, MS, MBA
August 26th 2025In this episode, Richard A. Brook, MS, MBA, discusses his study showing that infertility treatment coverage increases assisted reproductive technology (ART) use and improves pregnancy outcomes.
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Food Insecurity Associated With Increased Long COVID Risk, Lower Recovery Rates
September 10th 2025Adults with food insecurity report higher rates of long COVID and lower recovery, with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participation and employment status affecting these associations.
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