SPOTLIGHT -
April 25th 2024
A hands-on approach may be better for physicians to manage claims.
UnitedHealth updates situation on ransomware hack that has disrupted medical and pharmacy processes across the nation.
April 24th 2024
Health care was an influence in FTC decision, but effects for nonprofits are up in the air.
The ruling is going to be difficult to interpret and enforce.
The top news stories in medicine today.
CMS leaders propose ‘Universal Foundation’ for health program measures
Adult, youth criteria aim to support care for 150 million people across nation.
Walmart sets goal of 28 new health centers with primary care and more
Retail giant expanding into two new states, with additional growth in Texas.
Physicians need time to examine effects of CMS coding changes for 2024
MGMA agrees accurate billing is essential, but more information is needed before changing the system next year.
CMS must level playing field for independent physicians
Independents have more credibility with patients, but less reimbursement than hospitals, despite the same inflationary challenges.
January 2023 a mixed bag as new year starts for hospitals
Operating margins better than a year ago, but financial challenges remain and health care locations are shifting.
National scorecard gives low marks to U.S. support for primary care
It’s crucial for patient health and it needs help across the nation.
Aledade claims title of nation’s top network of independent primary care practices
Company announces acquisition of AI company, change to public benefit corporation.
Amazon enters primary care field by closing $3.9B deal to buy One Medical
Seeing a physician to be ‘easier, faster, more personal, and more convenient,’ CEO says.
Medicare benefits spending could reach $1 trillion this year
KFF analysis examines funding, overall financial condition.
More access to health care leads to more spending for it
But costs outpace national averages in some states with fewer physicians.
Docs: Ban noncompete clauses to improve working conditions, patient care
Physicians out front as FTC contemplates national rule against noncompete agreements.
Ending the COVID-19 emergency sparks questions about health insurance
Change is coming – and physicians might find it more difficult to get paid.
Inflation rises 0.5% in January, with medical prices dipping month to month
National figures show food, gas, shelter all cost more than a year ago.
MGMA issues guide to CMS for rule changes for prior authorizations
New regs could reduce administrative burdens physicians and delays in patient care.
Why locum tenens work is a viable solution for fighting burnout in the medical field
Fill-in physicians can find flexibility and financial benefits while developing their careers.
Two physicians part of Medicare fraud scheme, an ‘astonishing abuse of our health care system’
Feds announce charges in Michigan-based ring involving doctors visiting patients at home.
Physicians should be paid based on qualifications, not skin color
Resources can help Black doctors negotiate contracts to close the salary gap.
Medical groups want Congressional action to reform Medicare reimbursement
Family physicians lead charge to get issue on federal agenda early in 2023.
Dollar General, DocGo announce primary care mobile clinic pilot project
Pair will ‘evaluate customer response’ and possibly expand to additional stores.
CMS chief, surgeon general tout possible changes in prior authorizations
Leaders seek physician comments on rule proposals for electronic records, Medicare Advantage plans.
ACA health insurance enrollment approaching 15.9M people
Federal officials tout benefits of Inflation Reduction Act in making insurance available.
Health care mergers and acquisitions ‘regain momentum’ in 2022
Fourth quarter deals include four ‘mega mergers,’ according to analyst KaufmanHall.
Prices flat for physicians’ services, but food, gas costs push up inflation
President cites drug price changes in his remarks on economy at start of 2023.
New year, new Congress, outdated Medicare physician payment system
Medical groups urge lawmakers to improve health care access by adjusting payments to doctors.
How to safely make more money as a physician
Negotiate with knowledge and watch out for pitfalls with billing and side hustles.
Health care sector among those posting job gains in December
President praises gains, touts insulin price cap for seniors as part of economic plan.
Five career options for physicians beyond practicing
Patient care may be the most common career path for physicians, but it isn't the only one out there.
Industry payments start rolling in when new physicians begin practicing
Greater percentages of orthopedic specialists and neurosurgeons accept payments compared to internists, study says.
VillageMD to take over Summit Health-CityMD
$8.9 billion deal will join 680 provider locations in 26 markets.
Health care costs per person vary across 50 states, Washington
Income, price levels, Medicaid expansion all are factors in state-level analysis.