What We're Reading: Aetna Talks SDOH; 2 Opioid Bills Proposed; Doctors Blast Santorum on CPR Comments

Aetna CEO Envisions CVS Deal Helping it Lead the Way on Social Determinants

In an interview with The Washington Post, Aetna’s chief executive said its merger with CVS could allow it to act as a neighborhood gateway focusing more on the social determinants of health (SDOH). Mark T. Bertolini said the $69 billion deal could lead to a future where pharmacists or medical professionals could assist with appointments or focus on nonmedical support, such as coordinating rides, meal assistance, nutrition counseling, or social supports.

Senate Health Chair Releases 2 Draft Bills on Opioids

Senate Health Committee Chairman Lamar Alexander, R-Tennessee, released 2 draft bills aimed at curbing the overprescribing of opioids and stopping fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, at the border, The Hill reported. One bill would let the FDA require drug manufacturers to package certain opioids in blister packs, making it easier for a doctor to write a smaller quantity. The other bill would ensure the FDA can spend the $94 million included in the omnibus bill passed last week to boost laboratory capabilities and upgrade other methods to combat fentanyl.

Medical Community Criticzes Santorum for CPR, Gun Violence Comments

Healthcare professionals, especially surgeons who have operated on gunshot victims, criticized former Senator Rick Santorum, R-Pennsylvania, after he suggested that student activists should learn CPR instead of protesting for gun control. Doctors took to Twitter to share their opinions and also in magazines sharing their experiences operating on children and young adults, like a Tenessee surgeon, Eugene Gu, MD, who penned an article in Tuesday's Newsweek.