The largest health insurer in the United States does not cover weight-loss drugs. This piece explains the issue and summarizes some recent publications on the benefits and costs of drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide.
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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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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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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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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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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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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 consolidations tend to raise prices without necessarily improving quality of care, according to a wide body of research.
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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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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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