What We're Reading: Insurance Across State Lines; Price's Job on the Line; San Diego Hepatitis Outbreak

President Trump Eyes Selling Insurance Across State Lines

As early as next week, President Donald Trump could sign an executive order to allow health insurers to sell plans across state lines. Trump first mentioned his desire to allow such action during his campaign, with the idea that allowing insurers to sell across state lines will provide more options for consumers, reported The Washington Post. Conservatives argue that such a move will lower premiums by increasing competition, but insurers are reluctant. Selling across state lines means patients will have access to out-of-state doctors and hospitals, which they may not be interested in.

Price in Hot Water Over Travel Expenses

HHS Secretary Tom Price, MD, made headlines when it was uncovered that he had racked up nearly $400,000 in travel expenses since May. Now, Democrats are calling for his resignation, and they have an unlikely ally. The Hill reported that Trump is not happy about the extensive travel Price has made on charter flights and he was vague about whether or not he considered it a cause to be fired. A small group of House Democrats have banded together to urge Price’s dismissal over what they call a “breach of the public trust.”

San Diego Hepatitis Outbreak Death Toll Rises

The public health emergency in San Diego of a hepatitis A outbreak has now claimed 17 lives. The overall case count has jumped to 461 and public health officials are currently investigating 49 suspected hepatitis cases and 1 death, according to the Los Angeles Times. In the last week, there has been an uptick in hepatitis A vaccinations as a result of a public education campaign. The CDC is preparing to send representatives to San Diego for a planning meeting on future efforts.