Articles tagged with Health Care Policy
A new study found that Republican control of state legislatures is associated with increased infant mortality rates, especially among Black infants. The research suggests that the party's influence on social determinants of health, such as safety-net programs and minimum wage, contributes to these disparities.
A new study suggests that lowering the age when older adults can enroll in Medicare might save them a significant amount of money. The study found that average out-of-pocket healthcare costs dropped by 27% for those turning 66, while nearly 9% of 64-year-olds were considered 'catastrophic' due to high health expenses.
Researchers from UTHealth and Baylor College of Medicine recommend that EHR developers annually assess their products to ensure safety recommendations are met. The authors suggest three strategies to complement the new CMS rules, aiming to distribute responsibility for safety improvements evenly between designers, developers, and users.
A new poll shows strong support among older Americans for requiring health care workers to get vaccinated against COVID-19. The survey found that 61% of people aged 50 to 80 believe the vaccine should definitely be required, while an additional 19% think it should probably be required.
A new poll suggests that older adults are not using tax-advantaged savings accounts to save for future health expenses, with those who do more likely to have high incomes and education levels. The findings highlight the need for better understanding and support for low-income and vulnerable populations.
A new study found that Republicans are less likely to use ACA subsidies for health insurance, resulting in an average annual loss of $800 compared to Democrats. The study suggests that political polarization may lead individuals to avoid full utilization of federal programs intended to make healthcare more affordable.
Researchers at the University of Bath found that large food companies and advertisers opposed Transport for London's 2019 ban, challenging its effectiveness and attempting to undermine policy. The ban was implemented despite commercial opposition, and its success sets a positive precedent for other authorities planning similar bans.
A large-scale UK study confirms that COVID-19 vaccines are effective in reducing severe illness and hospitalisation. The study found that people who received one or two vaccine doses had lower odds of severe disease or hospitalisation than unvaccinated individuals, with a significant reduction in long COVID cases.
A study of 14,000 families found that those caring for children with chronic health conditions lost an average of $18,000 per year in household income. Foregone family employment was reported by nearly 15% of families and was more common among younger caregivers and those living in poverty.
Long-term kidney transplant survival rates in the US have increased significantly over the last three decades, with five-year survival rates for deceased and living donors rising from 66.2% and 79.5%, respectively, in 1996-1999 to 78.2% and 88.1% in 2012-2015.
A Korean population-based cohort study found that cancer, particularly multiple myeloma and leukemia, is associated with an increased risk of kidney failure. The study included approximately 825,000 patients with cancer compared to twice as many without cancer, matched on other characteristics.
Researchers found regional lockdowns did not sufficiently address local COVID-19 risk differences in Italy. Instead, targeted interventions focused on high-risk areas could help strike a better balance between public health and economic damage. The study provides guidance for policy-makers to design effective interventions.
Research found that longer and more frequent night shifts increase the risk of atrial fibrillation and coronary heart disease. Genetic predisposition did not affect the link between night shifts and AF risk.
A new regional policy in Chicago has led to an increase in patients receiving endovascular therapy, a critical treatment for large vessel occlusions. The study suggests that this policy change can improve stroke outcomes and has the potential to have a major public health impact.
Research by Jason Huh found that Medicaid expansion can increase the number of dentists per capita in low-income counties, with a 13% increase. This growth is driven by private practice dentists responding to financial incentives offered by expanded coverage.
A recent study by the American Cancer Society found a strong association between economic mobility and racial disparities in mortality in the US. The study suggests that structural racism has persisted with similar magnitude across generations, leading to increased death rates among Black individuals compared to their White counterparts.
A comprehensive review of keto diets found potential health risks, including increased heart disease risk, cancer risk, and adverse effects on pregnant women and kidney patients. For most people, the possible long-term benefits of a keto diet are outweighed by its potential drawbacks.
The study found that democratic countries increased government health spending by $275 per person between 1990 and 2019, while autocratic countries saw only a $115 increase. Democracies are also more likely to maintain universal health coverage even during economic recessions.
Simulation models were used to estimate the COVID-19 pandemic control strategy associated with the least health losses and the most cost effectiveness in Victoria, Australia. The study aimed to find the optimal balance between health outcomes and economic costs.
A Harvard study found that 20% of diabetes patients with high-deductible health plans reported skipping medications due to cost, compared to 16% in traditional plans. Patients with insulin reliance were 31% more likely to miss medication.
The American Academy of Family Physicians is investigating an 'educational' session promoting dairy products linked to increased risk of prostate cancer and other diseases disproportionately affecting African Americans. The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine filed a complaint, citing standards set by the Accreditation Counci...
Researchers investigated the association between net worth at midlife and subsequent longevity. The study found a significant positive correlation between wealth and longevity among individuals, as well as their siblings and twins.
The study found that primary care payment models are associated with increased telemedicine use for Medicare Advantage enrollees during the pandemic. This shift allowed patients to receive care remotely, reducing in-person visits and improving access to healthcare.
Researchers investigated whether female vs male physicians differ in patient outcomes, including mortality rates and care processes. The study found no significant differences in patient outcomes between female and male physicians, suggesting that the quality of care is not influenced by physician gender.
A survey study examined COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and approaches to improve vaccination rates among Chinese adults. The study found significant disparities in vaccine uptake, with regional differences in attitudes towards vaccination.
A new study estimates surprise bills for deliveries and newborn hospitalizations are frequent, affecting thousands of families annually. Researchers found that out-of-network claims from clinicians and ancillary service providers are a leading cause of surprise bills.
A recent study analyzed hospitalization and death rates related to COVID-19 before and after US states reopened their economies in 2020. The findings showed a significant increase in hospitalizations and deaths following state reopenings, indicating a need for continued public health measures.
A research team found that political institutions, such as election timing and presidentialism, had a greater impact on COVID-19 strategies than national healthcare institutions. The study suggests that this variation across federations warrants an institutional explanation.
Researchers found associations between Medicare Advantage star ratings and disparities in care for racial/ethnic minorities and lower-income enrollees. The study suggests that star ratings may not accurately reflect the quality of care provided to these populations.
A survey study in California found that public awareness of extreme risk protection orders is low, and many people are unwilling to use them to prevent firearm-related harm. The study suggests that targeted education and awareness campaigns can improve public understanding and encourage the use of these orders.
Researchers estimated the extent of Medicare Part B medical services subject to private insurer prior authorization under coverage policies. The study found that these restrictions would have resulted in significant spending savings, affecting healthcare delivery and policy.
A new article analyzes seven books that discuss health inequalities in Latin America and the Caribbean, highlighting regional disparities in healthcare access. The author calls for a universal approach to health care based on equity and inclusion to address these inequalities.
Under Oregon's reproductive health equity act, coverage for family planning services, including abortion and contraception, was ensured for all low-income state residents regardless of citizenship status. The first two years of covered services showed reduced travel distances for women seeking care.
Frontline healthcare workers may face temporary redeployment if they refuse COVID-19 vaccination, according to ethicists. A mild form of mandatory vaccination policy is justified to protect patients and colleagues.
The JAMA Health Forum has transitioned from an online health policy channel to a peer-reviewed, open-access online journal. The journal is focused on health policy, health care systems, and global and public health, with an editorial team led by John Z. Ayanian and Melinda B. Buntin.
Researchers found that COVID-19 patients enrolled in home monitoring programs had significantly lower healthcare use compared to those not enrolled. This suggests that home monitoring can help reduce unnecessary healthcare utilization, improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.
A state-by-state analysis of mask-wearing policies and COVID-19 rates reveals a strong association between high adherence to mask wearing and reduced spread of the virus. States with high mask-wearing rates had significantly lower COVID-19 rates, highlighting the importance of this public health measure in mitigating the pandemic.
The COVID-19 pandemic led to sharp declines in outpatient and emergency department visits for patients with chronic conditions, with more pronounced reductions depending on age, gender, and region. Recent surveys have found that some patients continue to postpone their care due to various factors.
A recent analysis by University of Ottawa faculty members finds legal justification for mandating SARS-CoV-2 vaccination for health care workers in public and private settings. The study highlights the importance of exemptions for individuals with underlying health issues or other reasons to ensure the protection of government mandates...
A new study from the University of Illinois found that hiring foreign-educated registered nurses does not displace U.S.-educated nurses and may even boost wages for highly educated natives. The research analyzed data from 1980-2015 and covered every commuting zone in the US, including rural areas.
A study of 173 countries found that increased testing intensity reduced COVID-19 transmission by 9%. Testing had the greatest influence among interventions, with a tenfold increase in tests to new cases reported reducing transmission. This explains why some countries, like China and Australia, achieved near elimination of COVID-19.
A Rutgers University study examines how high-income countries regulate health care costs using a fee-for-service model, finding that structuring negotiations and setting standardized prices can lower US healthcare spending. The study highlights the need for policymakers to address healthcare prices, not just volume of services.
A RAND Corporation study highlights the need for policies and approaches to overcome barriers in integrating family caregivers into healthcare teams. The report suggests investing in programs that provide supportive services for family caregivers and expanding access to care coordinators to facilitate effective communication and inform...
A study by NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell estimates the macroeconomic consequences of firearm-related fatalities in OECD countries, finding cumulative losses of $239.0 billion from 2018 to 2030. The US experiences the highest relative losses, with a total of $152.5 billion attributed to firearm fatalities.
A study by University of Kansas researchers found that individuals with disabilities overwhelmingly believe access to healthcare is a vital human right. However, they also reported feeling marginalized and stigmatized, with many facing barriers to employment and healthcare due to restrictive policies.
Primary care doctors are taking safety measures to protect patients, including appointment-only offices, clear protocols posted online or over the phone, and staggered in-person visits. Patients can also take precautions such as calling labs before scheduling appointments and wearing masks during visits.
A Cochrane Review found that hospital-based specialist palliative care may offer small benefits for patient-centred outcomes like quality of life, symptom burden, depression, and satisfaction with care. The review also showed an increased likelihood of patients dying in their preferred place by 22%, measured by home death.
Research at Case Western Reserve University reveals a strong association between high-quality physician-patient relationships and improved patient-reported health status. Adults with multiple diagnosed conditions often experience lower quality relationships, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address these disparities.
A 2018 survey found that 28% of organizations stopped or reduced at least one service in response to the policy, including reproductive health services. The current policy may negatively affect PEPFAR beneficiaries, particularly youth and pregnant women.
A machine learning algorithm accurately identifies medical specialties and primary care physicians with 95% accuracy, providing real-time data on the US healthcare workforce. The model correctly predicted 70% of physician practice types within five percentage points, including specialties such as emergency medicine and cardiology.
A Columbia professor is using data science to design interventions and recommend policies that help the most vulnerable populations overcome inequalities in access and outcomes. His project, Nudging New York, aims to eliminate inequality and increase healthcare access in underserved communities.
The American College of Physicians (ACP) publishes a new policy paper condemning racism and violence against Black individuals, citing adverse individual and community health consequences. ACP offers specific solutions to increase transparency, accountability, and safer law enforcement practices.
A group of American College of Physicians (ACP) leaders suggest using the organization's 'New Vision' policy paper to guide U.S. health care reform during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The paper aims to improve access to care, reduce per capita health care costs, and simplify the healthcare system.
Type 2 diabetes affects American Indians and Alaska Natives at three times the rate of white Americans, linked to higher cardiovascular disease rates. Obesity is prevalent, with 30-40% of American Indians having obesity, which increases risk factors for heart disease.
Laws punishing pregnant drug abusers are ineffective in reducing substance use during pregnancy, instead decreasing treatment admissions by 29% and referrals to healthcare professionals by 18%. The study found no significant reduction in babies born with withdrawal symptoms or exposed to narcotics.
A Columbia University expert argues for a more effective inter-governmental partnership in implementing the ACA, with states having significant policy and administrative discretion while adhering to strong national standards. This approach can achieve universal coverage without eliminating the private insurance system.
Nearly half of middle-aged adults in their 50s and early 60s lack confidence they can afford health insurance in the next year. Two-thirds worry about potential changes to health insurance policies affecting them. Many avoid seeking care due to cost concerns, with those in fair or poor health being four times more likely.
The American College of Physicians releases a series of policy papers recommending systemic reforms to achieve better healthcare for all. The recommendations address coverage and cost of care, healthcare payment and delivery systems, barriers to care, and social determinants of health.
A new study suggests that increasing quality transparency in healthcare can improve social welfare in the short-term, but may have negative effects in the long-term. Policymakers should target specific patient populations, such as younger or urban patients, and incentivize hospitals to make socially optimal investments.
Research by Saint Louis University finds that rural patients with chronic conditions have higher death rates, more hospitalizations, and limited access to specialist physicians. The study suggests strategies to improve specialist care in rural areas, including telemedicine and loan forgiveness for physicians.