Lawmakers are under pressure to decide the fate of COVID-era telehealth payment changes; the CDC reports an alarming increase in sexually transmitted disease (STD) cases among Americans 55 years and older; new regulations aim to reduce harmful exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals.”
Congressional Debate on Telehealth Services Intensifies as Deadline Looms
As the year-end deadline approaches for telehealth-related COVID-era payment changes, federal lawmakers are grappling with crucial decisions regarding the future of these services, including coverage under Medicare and other insurance plans, according to Kaiser Health News. The outcome of these deliberations will have a significant impact on access to virtual health care, particularly for rural and underserved communities. Despite bipartisan support for telehealth, the looming presidential election and legislative deadlines add complexity to the process, raising concerns about potential delays in finalizing critical policies.
Surprising Rise in STD Rates Among Older Americans Sparks Concern
Recent data from the CDC reveal a startling trend: Sexually transmitted disease (STD) rates are on the rise among Americans 55 years and older, according to Fox News. Chlamydia, syphilis, hepatitis C, and gonorrhea are among the diseases affecting this age group at an alarming rate. The statistics, spanning from 2012 to 2022, highlight a significant surge in reported cases vs previous years. Experts attribute the rise in cases to factors such as inadequate sex education during the individuals’ youth, potentially leaving them ill-equipped to protect themselves later in life.
Biden Administration Introduces Landmark National PFAS Limit for Safe Drinking Water
The Biden administration has finalized the first national standard to regulate per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals,” in drinking water, according to CNN. These chemicals, linked to various health issues, have been found in nearly half of the water supply in the US. The new rule mandates that water utilities filter 5 specific types of PFAS, setting legally enforceable limits to mitigate health risks. However, critics raise concerns about the financial burden on water systems and question the underlying science behind the standards.
Joanne Mizell: Lifestyle Modification Programs Take Holistic Aim at Metabolic Disease
May 1st 2024Joanne Mizell shares insurer strategies in addressing the escalating rates of metabolic diseases, highlighting the importance of holistic treatment methods like lifestyle modification programs, which integrate nutrition, physical activity, and community engagement.
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Tackling Health Inequality: The Power of Education and Experience
April 30th 2024To help celebrate and recognize National Minority Health Month, we are bringing you a special month-long podcast series with our Strategic Alliance Partner, UPMC Health Plan. Welcome to our final episode of this limited series and our conversation with Janine Jelks-Seale, MSPPM, director of health equity at UPMC Health Plan.
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The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) issued letters to 10 companies to warn them that certain drug patents were improperly listed; the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) will begin testing ground beef for bird flu particles; rural Americans are more likely to die early from 1 of the 5 leading causes of death than those who live in urban areas.
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Examining Low-Value Cancer Care Trends Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic
April 25th 2024On this episode of Managed Care Cast, we're talking with the authors of a study published in the April 2024 issue of The American Journal of Managed Care® about their findings on the rates of low-value cancer care services throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
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AUA to Focus on Inclusive Care, Robotic Surgeries, and Future of Urology at 2024 Annual Meeting
May 1st 2024The American Urological Association (AUA) 2024 Annual Meeting will highlight the latest innovations and future trends in urology, featuring dynamic plenary sessions, educational opportunities for providers, and discussions on cutting-edge treatments and global health initiatives.
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