The expanding role of Medicaid in US health care: A research roundup
To help journalists report on Medicaid, we’ve summarized a few studies that can inform reporters about key debates happening about this program.
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How the health care sector contributes to climate change: a research roundup and explainer
The medical system is responsible for a surprisingly large percentage of greenhouse gas emissions, and the toll is especially heavy in the U.S. We look at how governments are responding and what research reveals — and offer some timely story ideas for journalists.
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The impact of private equity ownership in health care: A research roundup and explainer — Plus 3 reporting tips
Private equity firms argue they bring value to health care. Critics of private equity’s approach say the intense drive for quick profit puts patients at risk. We look at the research.
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A health care journalist’s guide to prior authorization
Health insurance companies argue that prior authorization can reduce unnecessary procedures and health care costs. But doctors have concerns about the frequency of these requests, even for routine procedures, and the administrative burdens associated with them.
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The FDA’s accelerated approval process: When drugs are cleared for sale based on limited evidence
Accelerated approval is an important topic for journalists to consider in their ongoing coverage of drug costs in America. This article explains how the process works — including examples of successes and controversies. Plus: 5 reporting tips.
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When hospitals acquire physician practices, it can influence how individual physicians practice medicine: New research
One new study finds that doctors who shifted to hospital employment were more likely to refer their patients for “inappropriate” MRIs. Another links the shift to a rise in tests ordered for Medicare patients.
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Hospital mergers and acquisitions of physician practices: Research illuminates what’s at stake for consumers
Hospital consolidations tend to raise prices without necessarily improving quality of care, according to a wide body of research.
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Covering hospital mergers and acquisitions of physician practices: 3 tips from experienced health care journalists
The number of independent hospitals has declined in recent years as a result of mergers, while the number of hospitals that are part of larger systems has risen. It’s important for local reporters to look into what that means for their communities.
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The Medicare Part D open enrollment period: What you and your audience need to know
With annual expenses running to about $100 billion last year, Medicare Part D is the dominant insurer in the U.S. pharmaceutical market.
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Drug prices: Why prescription medicines remain unaffordable for many Americans
This explainer, in addition to providing an initial overview, addresses five aspects of the debate about the high costs of prescription medicines.
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