Articles tagged with Health Care Policy
Research published in ERJ Open Research suggests that assessing hospital patients' reported shortness of breath could help doctors prioritize care for those at high risk of death. Patients who developed shortness of breath were six times more likely to die than those who did not, with a higher rating indicating greater risk.
A new study found that the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization decision led to a significant increase in tubal ligations, a surgical procedure that permanently prevents pregnancy, with 51% more procedures performed across four medical centers between 2021 and 2023.
The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) endorses a federal policy that sets a maximum nicotine product standard, limiting nicotine levels in combustible cigarettes and related tobacco products to 0.7 mg/g. This reduction aims to make cigarettes minimally or non-addictive, striking at the chemical that keeps people hooked. E...
A global survey of nearly 4,000 young women with advanced breast cancer found that nearly half have children under 18 and face significant hardship. The study also revealed delays in seeking care, unmet psychosocial needs, and limited access to precision diagnostics.
The Family Heart Foundation has launched the Lp(a) AW(a)RE initiative to educate primary care clinicians, healthcare insurance providers, and policymakers about high lipoprotein(a). The program aims to increase awareness, screening, and diagnosis of this genetic risk factor for premature cardiovascular disease.
Two new studies found that 75% of adults prefer non-colonoscopy screening options like stool tests, while physicians prefer colonoscopy. Additionally, follow-up colonoscopies rose 41% after a policy change eliminated patient cost sharing for abnormal home-based stool tests.
Provincial partnerships with corporate-provided virtual care programs raise concerns about access, quality of care, and data privacy. Governments must ensure healthcare standards are met, protect patient data, and maintain transparency around contracts and profits. The authors advise caution before introducing corporate entities in the...
A University of Michigan study found that Medicaid coverage is linked to employment gains among low-income adults with serious health problems. Employment nearly doubled among enrollees who experienced improved health, from 26% to 47%. This suggests that Medicaid expansion may actually help individuals participate in the workforce.
The Lancet Countdown report links climate change to violence and community health, emphasizing the need for social and economic changes to prevent conflict. Strengthening food systems and ensuring emergency responses can reduce grievances and protect healthcare workers.
The journal is launching a new section to popularize evidence-based strategic planning in digital health and provide comprehensive guidelines for its application. Papers can explore topics such as strategic planning frameworks, case studies of successful implementations, and stakeholder engagement.
The Annenberg Public Policy Center survey finds that most American adults are unclear about the dangers of measles and the value of vaccination. The survey also shows a decline in support for MMR vaccination among parents, from 90% in November 2024 to 82% in August 2025.
A recent presidential proclamation increased H1-B visa fees, affecting international doctors sponsored by the program. Rural and high-poverty counties will likely face significant challenges in accessing healthcare services due to a shortage of foreign healthcare workers.
The World Health Organization's (WHO) priorities are skewed by its reliance on donations from the Gates Foundation, which has directed over half of its $5.5 billion in grants towards vaccine-related projects and polio. In contrast, non-communicable diseases and health systems strengthening remain underfunded.
A study published in Alzheimer's & Dementia found that specially qualified nurses with extended roles can measurably improve the care of people with dementia living at home. The approach reduced unmet needs more effectively than standard care and improved the quality of life for affected individuals.
The study analyzed linked health data for over 57 million people in England, finding drops in cardiovascular disease incidence during the pandemic. However, diagnoses rates have returned to pre-pandemic levels, with increased cases of heart failure and inflammation of heart tissue observed after the pandemic.
A UK report highlights gender inequities in drug and alcohol services, with women often experiencing adverse childhood experiences and trauma. The study recommends improving treatment and support for women, including women-only spaces and holistic multi-agency approaches.
JMIR Publications invites submissions on navigating AI-enabled uncertainty in healthcare management, with a focus on practical guidance for senior management and administrators. The theme issue explores topics such as AI-enabled reimbursement, cloud migration, and vendor dynamics.
A recent study published in Pediatric Research highlights the impact of neighborhood environments on childhood type 2 diabetes risk. The research found associations between library presence, neighborhood walkability, and caregiver health, suggesting that social and environmental factors play a significant role in T2D development.
A Northwestern University study found that Chicago parents have low intake of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA, with women consuming even lower amounts. This deficiency may have direct negative effects on children's health, including preterm birth risk.
A new study found that a minimum happiness threshold of 2.7 is necessary for increased happiness to translate into measurable health benefits and lower non-communicable disease mortality rates, suggesting happiness as a public health resource.
The winners of the Applied Microbiology International Horizon Awards 2025 have been recognized for their groundbreaking contributions to global challenges through applied microbiology. The awards celebrate excellence across various domains, including drug discovery and sustainable agriculture.
A new study projects that US funding cuts will result in a catastrophic effect on pediatric TB, with children in Sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia experiencing a significant spike in preventable cases and deaths over the next decade. The loss of US bilateral health aid is projected to result in an additional 2.5 million pediatric T...
Physician Organization of Michigan ACO (POM ACO) has achieved significant savings for Medicare by reducing unnecessary spending and focusing on preventive care. The organization's efforts saved Medicare nearly $35 million in 2024, with members sharing in the $17 million incentive.
The European Society of Endocrinology has released the EndoCompass Research Roadmap, a major new initiative to align research efforts and improve funding strategies for hormone-related health challenges. The roadmap identifies specific research needs across eight endocrine specialties and five cross-cutting areas.
A recent study by the University of Michigan highlights the issue of limited language accessibility in patient portals, which can prevent vulnerable patients from accessing vital healthcare services. The study found that 29% of hospitals only offer access to their patient portal in English, and fewer than 5% offer it in the most common...
A new RNA-based therapy targeting Marfan syndrome shows promise in treating the genetic disorder, which can lead to aortic aneurysms and be fatal. The therapy, developed by Mizzou researcher Dunpeng Cai, aims to correct mutated RNA for those with Marfan syndrome.
A new study finds that benzodiazepines and antipsychotics prescribed to patients with dementia receiving hospice care may carry major unintended risks, including increased mortality. The study highlights two policy issues: lack of oversight of medication use in hospice and a mismatch between hospice policy and dementia care.
A new study warns that dental shame can lead to lower self-worth and unfavourable oral health care behaviours, exacerbating existing oral health inequalities. Researchers emphasize the need for non-judgmental environments where patients feel empowered to prioritize their oral health.
A new statewide survey found that nearly two-thirds of Californians (63%) are directly or indirectly affected by domestic violence, while nearly one-third (31%) identify as survivors. The majority support jail alternatives and state-funded resources for survivors.
Individuals with psychosis reported a large increase in current cannabis use following legalization, exceeding previous estimates for the general population. This finding highlights the need for policymakers to consider the potential health impacts of cannabis use on individuals with psychosis.
A new systematic review from Edith Cowan University highlights the lack of evidence-based guidelines for non-sterile glove use in healthcare, potentially harming patients and the environment. The study's findings suggest that reducing unnecessary glove use can save healthcare costs and reduce medical waste.
Researchers found that Medicaid accountable care organizations (ACOs) can improve some maternal health outcomes if designed thoughtfully. The study highlights the importance of value-based care delivery design within Medicaid programs to support low-income women before, during, and after pregnancy.
Researchers use AI, omics, and systems biology to design targeted drugs for cardiovascular disease pathways. The tools could transform heart drug development and save lives, but global health policy leadership is urgently needed.
A new review in Frontiers in Science calls for a fundamental shift in how heart drugs are discovered and tested using AI, omics, and big data. This approach could drive the development of personalized treatments for cardiovascular disease, which currently relies on broad-brush treatments that don't account for individual variability.
Researchers found that over 30% of children referred for Alport syndrome testing at age 3 already required therapeutic intervention, highlighting the potential benefits of early detection. The study suggests introducing a urine testing system may enable intervention before kidney dysfunction onset.
A recent study highlights the growing concern of inhaler-related greenhouse gas emissions in the US, which have increased over the past decade. The study suggests that shifting utilization to dry powder and soft mist inhalers could be a key solution to reduce emissions.
A major study from the University of Sydney has found that Iyengar yoga-based exercise programs increased falls among older people by 33% compared to seated relaxation yoga. The research suggests that yoga may not be an effective fall prevention strategy, particularly if taught online.
The 340B program has grown into the nation's second-largest drug purchasing program, with significant revenue generated from spread pricing, which disproportionately benefits providers with more commercially insured patients. Eliminating this distorted incentive is essential to ensuring safety-net providers receive benefits.
The SHC-SHG program leads to a 16% reduction in LRDs among self-employed individuals, while unemployed individuals show significant behavioral changes but not health improvements. The increase in municipal funds is found to be cost-effective, with overall medical expenses reduced by nine times the increase.
A decision analytical model study estimates COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy will continue to yield meaningful benefits, especially in reducing infant hospitalizations. COVID-19 vaccination has been shown to be safe for pregnant individuals.
The survey found that while job satisfaction was generally positive, with an average score of 25.37 out of 36, career development opportunities, work organisation, and workload received relatively low scores. Nurses and paramedics reported higher satisfaction levels than physicians, particularly in workload and organisational aspects.
Researchers have developed a tool that can predict how patients with multiple sclerosis will respond to natalizumab treatment, allowing for targeted treatments with fewer side effects. The tool uses high-content imaging and machine learning to analyze cell morphology and identify individuals who are unlikely to respond to the medication.
A cross-sectional study found significant variation in price markup across hospitals, with high-markup hospitals exhibiting poorer outcomes. These findings highlight the need for policy efforts to regulate pricing and improve quality of care in these institutions.
A new study found that three in five US children enrolled in Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) by age 18. The researchers used a microsimulation model to track childhood insurance coverage over 18 years, estimating cumulative insurance outcomes under policy conditions similar to those between 2015 and 2019.
A study reveals that nearly 3 of 4 US children relied on publicly subsidized insurance or experienced uninsurance by age 18. State-level heterogeneity underscores the significance of Medicaid policies in addressing childhood un-insurance.
New Brazilian regulations restrict hormone therapy and research for transgender youth, potentially increasing depression, social isolation, and suicide. Experts question the scientific basis and ethics of these rules, calling for evidence-based care and open discussion.
JMIR Publications has launched a new 'News & Perspectives' section, providing in-depth analysis on the implications of increased political oversight in US research. The section aims to bring rigor and integrity to digital health news, empowering researchers, policymakers, and health professionals to stay ahead of the curve.
A new study reveals that states ending emergency SNAP benefits during the pandemic led to increased difficulty affording food and household expenses, especially for households with children. This reduction in funding threatens the health and well-being of millions of families reliant on the program.
A study found that virtual care expansion in Ontario did not lead to a significant increase in specialists' practices in rural areas. Despite the widespread availability of virtual care and changes in remuneration, the researchers discovered that specialist physicians did not expand their reach to patients living at great distances.
A portable device using machine learning can detect signs of concussions in real-time, providing a more objective way to assess injuries. The Mizzou Point-of-Care Assessment System combines a force plate, depth camera and interface board to track movement, balance and reaction times.
A nationwide study found patient death rates increased in emergency departments of U.S. hospitals acquired by private equity firms, with staffing cuts and salary reductions proposed as likely explanations. The researchers also found transfers of patients to other hospitals and shortened stays in intensive care units.
A new survey found that the high cost of legal cannabis products is a significant barrier for many participants, while access to unbiased information helps people avoid illicit products. Understanding patients' difficulties in accessing safe products can guide strategies to make the process easier.
A recent study analyzing data from the Mexican National Health and Nutrition Surveys (2016-2023) found that cardiovascular disease risk increased in Mexico between 2016 and 2023. The average 10-year CVD risk was estimated at 9.5% using region-specific tools, highlighting the need for accurate models to predict local disease burden.
The University of Bergen's 'Fair Choices on the Path to Universal Health Coverage' project aims to strengthen low- and middle-income countries in handling cuts in development aid. The project will improve priority setting through evidence-informed, context-specific approaches, collaborating with academic institutions and governing bodi...
Experts argue that the current process for managing sexual misconduct by doctors in the UK is inconsistent and relies too heavily on subjective evidence. This can lead to varying sanctions being imposed on doctors found guilty, with some cases receiving lenient punishments compared to those proposed by the General Medical Council.
Dr. Alan Sager presents a guide to thorough healthcare reform in the US, citing high costs and inadequate insurance coverage as major issues. He proposes solutions such as containing costs safely, insuring all Americans, and securing adequate pay for doctors and hospitals.
The AACR Cancer Progress Report highlights the impact of federal investments on cancer research, with FDA approval of 20 new cancer drugs and improved survival rates. However, challenges such as early-onset cancers and instability at NIH threaten ongoing progress.
A new study reveals that population aging is the largest contributor to musculoskeletal disorders globally, accounting for approximately one third of countries and territories. The research highlights the need for targeted public health strategies and healthcare resource allocation to alleviate the burden of these disorders.
As states prepare to implement work requirements for Medicaid expansion, a University of Michigan health care researcher emphasizes the need for key actions to protect enrollees with chronic conditions. Ayanian's guidance includes steps for healthcare providers and organizations to ensure individuals do not lose coverage if they qualify.
A new white paper from the USC Schaeffer Center recommends FDA reforms to streamline clinical trials, provide clearer guidance on newer technologies, and improve agency efficiency. This could reduce development time and costs, pushing down prices and improving patient access.