Focus of the Week

The analysis estimates that in 2018, healthcare spending grew at a rate of 4.6% to $3.6 trillion, or $11,172 per person, faster than 2017’s 4.2% but equal to the 2016 rate.

Modifiable lifestyle behaviors, such as physical activity, sleep time, television time, and diet, were shown to contribute to risk of obesity and cardiometabolic conditions in early childhood, according to study findings.

Accountable care organizations (ACOs) have saved Medicare a total of $3.53 billion from 2013 to 2017, or $755 million after shared savings were paid out, according to a new report from the National Association of ACOs (NAACOS).

Although the study did not pinpoint the exact mechanism behind the link, the authors wrote that the presence of plaque below the gumline can allow oral bacteria to reach the circulatory system. Certain bacteria that reach the gut can trigger inflammation.

The association between disadvantaged communities and heightened risk of cardiovascular disease was attributed to factors that impair sleep quality and duration, such as living in noisy environments, working several jobs with various shifts, and having greater levels of emotional and financial stress, according to study findings.

While there is an increased interest in using real-world evidence (RWE) to design, test, and review rare disease treatments, payers may not be as receptive to using RWE when making reimbursement and formulary decisions, according to a new report from Syneos Health.

A new study says that more than 1 in 10 of the 17 million cancer survivors in the United States will die from cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Coverage from the Institute for Value-Based Medicine® session held in Nashville, Tennessee.

Humana outlined its progress in its third annual Value-Based Care Report, which details growth and evolution in this area since 2016, both in the number of agreements and in its spread across more parts of the country.

Chronic opioid therapy was found to disrupt sleep and increase the risk of sleep disorders, while prescription drug use for pain and sleep exhibited an increased risk of frailty among users, according to 2 study findings stressing the need for heightened prescription education among providers for potential adverse risks.