Exploring the effectiveness of health behavior interventions and their components for healthy adults
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that physical activity promotion interventions have minimal overall effectiveness. However, the
Health Care Policy
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How did health insurance coverage changes affect older adults? Two new studies take a look
Two new studies found that those who turned 65 after the ACA took effect had lower out-of-pocket health costs and fewer hospitalizations. However, dual-eligible individuals over 65 saw negative impacts from Medicaid 'unwinding,' with 12% losing coverage and many going without needed care due to cost.
Calorie labelling leads to modest reductions in selection and consumption
A new Cochrane review found that calorie labelling in supermarkets, restaurants, and other food outlets leads to a small reduction in the calories people select and purchase. The average reduction was 1.8%, equating to around two almonds per 600-calorie meal.
Reducing teens’ psychological stress could save billions for US budget, study suggests
A new study finds that improving adolescent mental health can lead to increased labor force participation and lower public assistance usage, resulting in significant economic benefits. Clinically significant psychological distress in adolescence is associated with lower annual wages and reduced labor force participation 10 years later.
A ‘smoke-free generation’ in Canada? New analysis says it would result in vast health gains, healthcare cost savings
A new analysis suggests that implementing a lifetime ban on tobacco products for individuals born after 2009 would result in vast health benefits and healthcare cost savings. The study estimates $2.3 billion less in healthcare costs and 476,814 more quality-adjusted life years for Canadians over a 50-year timespan.
Medicare enrollment linked to sharp decline in use of mental healthcare services
A new study from the USC Schaeffer Center finds that people with mental health symptoms from low- and middle-income households experience a 71% decline in outpatient mental health visits after enrolling in Medicare. This decline is also associated with a 47% lower likelihood of receiving psychotropic drugs.
New perspective highlights urgent need for US physician strike regulations
A new study calls for regulatory reforms to address the rising trend of physician strikes in the US, citing international best practices as a solution. The Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute researchers highlight the need to balance the rights of physicians with patient safety.
John Howington, MD, MBA, FCCP, to become the 87th President of the American College of Chest Physicians
John Howington, MD, MBA, FCCP, is the new President of CHEST, succeeding Neil S. Freedman, who will be President-Elect in 2026. Dr. Howington has extensive leadership experience and has published over 49 research publications.
Association of state cannabis legalization with cannabis use disorder and cannabis poisoning
A longitudinal cohort study found that state cannabis legalization is associated with increased cannabis use disorder and poisoning diagnoses. Communities with increased access to cannabis may experience increased healthcare use and costs due to these rising diagnoses.
Firearm and motor vehicle pediatric deaths— intersections of age, sex, race, and ethnicity
US youths experience disparities in firearm and motor vehicle crash fatality rates across different age groups, sexes, races, and ethnicities. A multipronged approach is necessary to address these leading causes of death, focusing on individual, community, and policy levels for high-risk groups.
US tobacco 21 policies and potential mortality reductions by state
Early adoption of Tobacco 21 policies maximizes potential mortality reductions, but enforcement varies widely across states. The federal law's enforcement is crucial in states without state-level T21 policies.
Walking speed as a simple predictor of metabolic health in obese individuals
A recent study discovered that assessing an individual's perceived walking speed relative to peers can identify those at risk of metabolic diseases. Faster walkers had lower risks of diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia.
New grant to UMD School of Public Health will uncover “ghost networks” in Medicare plans
Researchers aim to identify 'ghost networks' in Medicare Advantage plans, where advertised providers differ from actual access options. The study will analyze nationwide data from 2017-2021 to pinpoint the extent of these disparities and their impact on patients.
New study reveals provincial and territorial inequities and inadequacies in access to medications and treatment for cardiovascular conditions in Canada
A new study reveals significant provincial and territorial variations in reimbursement criteria for cardiovascular medications in Canada. The current system leads to unequal access to evidence-based treatments, with the most vulnerable groups facing restricted access to life-saving medications.
Race, ethnicity, and sleep in us children
Racially and ethnically minoritized US children experience disparities in mean levels and variability of sleep compared to white peers. These findings emphasize the importance of addressing multiple sleep dimensions across diverse racial and ethnic groups to achieve equitable pediatric sleep health.
Laws on healthcare worker rights align with global standards with room for improvement
A study found that more than half of laws and policies on healthcare workers' rights align with global standards. However, gaps persist in areas such as fair pay, occupational health and safety, mental health services, and non-discrimination protections.
CMS launches new mandatory kidney transplant payment model
The Increasing Organ Transplant Access (IOTA) Model aims to improve access to life-saving kidney transplants for patients with end-stage kidney disease while maintaining or improving the quality of care. The new rule will test performance-based upside or downside risk payments among selected kidney transplant hospitals.
Exploring factors affecting workers' acquisition of exercise habits using machine learning approaches
The study found that higher stages of behavioral change toward lifestyle improvement and high levels of physical activity positively associated with exercise habit acquisition. In contrast, daily alcohol consumption of ≥60 g had a negative effect on the acquisition of exercise habits.
ISB study highlights AI’s potential and pitfalls in scouring health data
Large language models show promise in identifying housing instability from clinical notes, but AI interpretation can be incorrect and human review is still necessary. De-identification methods also require refinement to preserve privacy without losing important details.
Most Medicare beneficiaries do not compare prescription drug plans – and may be sticking with bad plans
A USC Schaeffer study found that over half of Medicare beneficiaries with stand-alone Part D plans did not switch due to lack of plan comparisons, with many unaware of how to change plans or missing out on better coverage options. This complacency allows insurers to exploit beneficiaries' inattention and boost profits.
Brooks School, Weill Cornell Medicine Launch Center to Improve Health Policy
The Cornell Health Policy Center aims to develop effective, evidence-based health policies to ensure quality, comprehensive, and affordable care for all patients. The center will connect health policy researchers across Cornell's campuses to inform policymaking processes that improve health outcomes.
Palliative Care needs to be transformed world-wide, say specialists at Qatar Foundation’s WISH 2024
The report highlights the urgent need for palliative care, citing a growing demand due to aging populations and chronic conditions. Specialists emphasize the importance of understanding cultural and religious contexts, patient autonomy, and innovative, cost-effective recommendations to transform essential palliative care.
World health leaders outline bold new strategies and innovations to eliminate TB amongst refugees and migrants at QF’s WISH 2024
World health leaders outlined policy recommendations to tackle TB among refugee and migrant populations, leveraging successful experiences from regional countries. The report's ten strategies aim to guide stakeholders worldwide in achieving TB elimination for all.
Humans, not AI, are always accountable for healthcare decisions, say experts at QF’s WISH 2024
A panel of bioethicists and experts emphasize that human accountability is crucial for healthcare decisions made by AI. The importance of diverse data sets was also stressed to avoid biases in AI-enabled medical technologies. Experts stress the need for collective liability among developers, programmers, and data scientists.
Israel trying to make Gaza uninhabited by targeting health facilities, says Palestine Minister of Health at WISH
The World Health Organization calls for a unified response to protect healthcare in conflict settings. Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasizes that two-thirds of those dying are women and children, highlighting the need for an end to the war and negotiations between parties.
Grandparents help grandkids in many ways – but the reverse may be true too, poll suggests
A new poll by Michigan Medicine reveals that having grandchildren and regularly seeing them can have a positive impact on older adults' mental health. Grandparents who care for their grandchildren under 18 or see them frequently are less likely to feel isolated and report better mental health.
Study: Online E-cigarette retailers fail to comply with sale regulations
A recent study found that online e-cigarette retailers are not consistently adhering to laws aimed at preventing the sale of vaping products to minors. The researchers analyzed 16 attempted purchases and found that 73% were processed and 67% were delivered, with many violating age verification and shipping regulations.
State divorce laws, reproductive care policies, and pregnancy-associated homicide rates
A cross-sectional study found that barriers to divorce were associated with higher pregnancy-associated homicide rates and better access to reproductive health care was linked to lower rates. The study highlights the importance of considering state legislation when addressing pregnancy-related violence.
Does more virtual care mean more low-value care? Study suggests no
A new University of Michigan study analyzed 2022 data from Michigan Medicare participants to assess the impact of virtual care on low-value care. The study found that high-telehealth-use clinics did not see a rise in unnecessary tests and scans, while some saw a faster drop in these procedures.
Federal government may be overpaying for veterans’ health care in Medicare Advantage plans
A new study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health suggests that the federal government may be paying for veteran healthcare twice due to high-veteran Medicare Advantage plans. The research found that nearly one in five veterans enrolled in these plans did not incur any Medicare services, highlighting concerns about inefficient s...
Childhood overweight is associated with socio-economic vulnerability
A study by Uppsala University finds that childhood overweight is associated with socio-economic disadvantage, particularly in regions with high rates of single parenthood and low education levels. The prevalence of overweight among 4-year-olds has fallen to pre-pandemic levels, but regional disparities persist.
Elucidating the attributes of individuals with dyslipidemia identified during health checkups who do not visit medical institutions
A study analyzed health checkup data and found that individuals with mild dyslipidemia were less likely to seek medical follow-up compared to those with severe abnormalities. Nearly 80% of respondents did not follow up with a physician, highlighting the need for improved follow-up attendance at medical consultations.
Social media and suicide risk in youth
Research highlights social media's impact on youth mental health, including associations between excessive social media use and suicidal thoughts. The study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions and policy changes to address this growing concern among young people.
Stopping surprise ambulance bills a tough policy puzzle
A study by Ohio State University found that ground ambulance providers raised their prices in response to a New York law aimed at preventing surprise, expensive out-of-network emergency ambulance bills. The law increased prices by 13%, which is likely to hit health consumers' bank accounts through elevated insurance premiums.
New JNCCN study suggests Medicaid expansion improves cancer care and survival for people with aggressive type of breast cancer
A new study published in JNCCN found that Medicaid expansion was associated with longer survival rates and reduced treatment delays for patients with HR-negative, HER2-positive breast cancer. The study used data from the National Cancer Database to review results for women diagnosed with this type of breast cancer between 2010 and 2018.
New study urges enhanced recruitment strategies to help address US primary care physician shortages
A new study by the Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute suggests that policy interventions tailored to the citizenship status of international medical graduates can help address US primary care physician shortages. The research found significant effects on IMGs' choices of specialties and practice locations, with varying trends depend...
Medicaid ACOs have not yet improved care for kids with asthma
A study led by UMass Amherst found no significant improvement in asthma care for Medicaid-insured children compared to those with private insurance. Despite the launch of primary care-oriented Medicaid ACOs in Massachusetts, disparities in quality of care persist, with worsening emergency department/hospital use for children with Medic...
Differences in the effectiveness of nonalcoholic beverage provision in reducing alcohol consumption depending on the degree of problem drinking
Providing nonalcoholic beverages significantly reduces alcohol consumption in individuals with moderate to severe drinking problems, as indicated by AUDIT scores ≤7, 8-11, 12-14, and ≥15. However, this approach is not sufficient for those with more severe cases, highlighting the need for a combination of strategies.
New research suggests: To get patients to accept medical AI, remind them of human biases
A study from Lehigh University and Seattle University found that making patients aware of biases in human healthcare decisions increases receptiveness to AI recommendations. By highlighting the limitations of human judgment, healthcare providers can create a more balanced relationship between patients and emerging technologies.
Patients say access to health care is about more than just travel time and being seen quickly
A first-of-its-kind study assesses how closely patients' perceptions of network adequacy align with those of insurers. The survey found strong support for definitions related to timely access, specialty care, and mental health care, as well as broader concepts like public transportation access and cultural competency.
Will AI tools revolutionize public health? Not if they continue following old patterns, researchers argue
Researchers argue that AI's impact on public health depends on its development and deployment, warning of potential biases, lack of transparency, and exacerbation of existing harm. However, the authors also highlight AI's potential to improve healthcare systems, access to care, and provide essential services.
Speakers to tackle global health challenges at WISH 2024
The World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH) will tackle global health issues like antibiotic resistance and conflict zones through keynotes from Lord Ara Darzi and Christos Christou. More than 200 experts will present innovative practices in healthcare.
Tax, smoke-free legislation, and anti-smoking campaigns linked to smoking reduction
A comprehensive review of population-level tobacco control strategies found tax increases, smoke-free legislation, and anti-smoking campaigns to be effective in reducing smoking. These interventions also increased quit rates and led to higher smoking cessation rates.
Use of the term “postcode lottery” has changed dramatically over time – and means different things to different people, study shows
Researchers found the phrase has broadened to include regional inequalities in state services and poverty, with varying meanings for different people. The study, carried out by Grace Redhead and Rebecca Lynch, highlights the complex causes of regional inequality in health and healthcare.
Studies examine growing US mental health safety net
A new study by NYU researchers reveals that more than 60% of the US population has access to certified community behavioral health clinics, which provide mental health and substance use disorder treatment services. The clinics are expanding crisis mental health services, including mobile crisis response teams and stabilization.
Study finds minorities more likely to have ‘free’ preventive healthcare denied by insurers
A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that racial and ethnic minorities are more likely to have claims for free preventive care denied by insurance plans, leading to unexpected bills or lack of access. Healthcare providers also charge disadvantaged groups a higher amount for preventive services.
Mount Sinai leaders receive prestigious awards during the American College of Emergency Physicians 2024 Scientific Assembly (ACEP24)
Brendan G. Carr, MD, MS, receives the Colin C. Rorrie Award for Excellence in Health Policy, recognized for his work on building regional systems for emergency care and advocating for increased collaboration between public and private sectors. Ugo Ezenkwele, MD, MPH, receives the Leon L. Haley Jr. Award for Excellence in Diversity, Inc...
Pooled analysis of physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep among children from 33 countries
Children worldwide fail to meet WHO guidelines for physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep, highlighting the need for effective context-specific programs. The study emphasizes the importance of understanding factors influencing these behaviors in young children.
Estimation of tax benefit of nonprofit hospitals
A new study estimates that nonprofit hospitals receive significant tax benefits across states, with high concentrations among a few hospitals. Policy efforts to strengthen accountability are more effective at the local level.
BU commentary: Project 2025 could become a ‘political reality that would upend medical practice’
A new JAMA commentary by Boston University School of Public Health researchers warns that Project 2025's conservative blueprint would undermine healthcare and public health. The playbook's proposals, led by The Heritage Foundation, include deregulating healthcare, weakening the ACA, and allowing discrimination within healthcare settings.
Growing divide: Rural men are living shorter, less healthy lives than their urban counterparts
A new study finds that rural men can expect to live two years less than their urban counterparts by age 60, and spend fewer years in good health. The urban-rural gap in life expectancy and health quality has nearly tripled over two decades due to higher rates of smoking, obesity, and cardiovascular conditions.
Study reveals gaps in access to long-term contraceptive supplies
A study with 4.8 million Medicaid enrollees found that policies requiring 12-month supply of contraception have not been fully implemented, resulting in no substantial increases in year-long prescription orders. This leaves many patients at an increased risk for unintended pregnancy.
Outcomes by race and ethnicity following a Medicare bundled payment program for joint replacement
The study found that home discharge rates increased more for Hispanic compared to non-Hispanic white patients, highlighting the importance of considering differential outcomes in Medicare payment policies. These findings suggest the need for tailored approaches to address racial and ethnic disparities in joint replacement care.
Self-reporting of health may lead to underestimation of health inequalities in England
A study analyzing data from the Health Survey for England found that people living in areas of high deprivation are likely to have worse health than those in less deprived areas, even when reporting their own health as 'poor'. This could lead to underestimation of health inequalities and inaccurate allocation of resources.
Cannabis and older adults: Poll shows current use patterns, beliefs and risks
A new poll shows that 21% of people aged 50 and older used cannabis in the past year, with 12% using it at least monthly. The study highlights potential risks of cannabis use, including risky driving and addiction, as well as the importance of discussing its use with healthcare providers.
UBCO study explores access to psychedelics for therapeutic use
A UBCO study found that patients face barriers when discussing psychedelics with physicians due to stigma and perceived lack of knowledge. The study analyzed data from 800 adults who use psychedelics, revealing that nearly 60% felt less satisfied with communication about psychedelics compared to previous conversations.
New law regulating out-of-pocket drug spending saves cancer patients more than $7,000 a year, study finds
A new study by Michigan Medicine found that the Inflation Reduction Act's limit on Medicare Part D spending leads to significant savings for cancer patients prescribed oral chemotherapy. The average annual cost for these medications decreased from $11,284 in 2023 to $3,927 in 2024, resulting in median cost savings of $7,260.
State insulin price cap law cuts out-of-pocket costs by 40%, study finds
A new study published in Health Affairs found that the Colorado insulin price cap law resulted in a 40% reduction in out-of-pocket costs for insulin prescriptions. The law, which caps monthly costs at $100 for state-regulated health insurance plans, had the largest impact on children and adults aged 18-34, as well as rural patients.
Strictest abortion-ban states offer least family support
A Northwestern University study reveals that states with severe post-Dobbs abortion restrictions also lack policies to support families, particularly those of low socioeconomic status and marginalized individuals. The authors argue that advocates should leverage child protection arguments to advocate for improved family welfare policies.
Number of general practices shrinking but patient lists ballooning in England
The number of NHS general practices in England has shrunk by 20% over the past decade, but patient list sizes have expanded by 40%. The average practice list size increased from 6967 to 9724 patients, while the number of GPs per 1000 patients fell by 15%.