SUMMARY: In March, Social Security Commissioner Martin O’Malley addressed systemic issues within the agency regarding overpayments that have harmed vulnerable beneficiaries. Although he has made some progress, including reducing full benefit withholding from 46,000 to about 7,000 recipients, challenges remain, such as the burden of proof still resting on beneficiaries to dispute overpayment claims. Advocates urge the need for a statute of limitations on recovery efforts, as cases can date back decades and cause severe financial hardships. O’Malley’s term is nearing an end, and while improvements have been noted, many beneficiaries still face difficulties within the system.

Read the full article

The post Social Security Tackles Overpayment ‘Injustices,’ but Problems Remain appeared first on kffhealthnews.org

SUMMARY: Kathleen Clark faced an unexpected $960 prepayment request from her OB-GYN during her pregnancy, a practice increasingly reported by pregnant women. Often, these upfront fees occur before the pregnancy concludes, creating financial strain and anxiety. Advocacy groups criticize this as unethical, arguing it can deter women from seeking necessary care. Although providers claim prepayments ensure compensation, the approach complicates billing and may force unwanted decisions on patients. With U.S. maternity care costs averaging nearly $3,000 out-of-pocket, many families struggle financially, raising concerns about equitable access to prenatal services. The issue remains challenging to regulate due to industry lobbying.

Read the full article

The post Pay First, Deliver Later: Some Women Are Being Asked To Prepay for Their Baby appeared first on kffhealthnews.org

SUMMARY: California is using state and federal stockpiles to provide up to 10,000 farmworkers with safety gear as the state reports 21 human cases of bird flu. The state began distributing protective equipment in May and has confirmed bird flu at over 270 dairies. Drawing lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, California is improving emergency responses and maintaining a stockpile that includes millions of face masks. However, due to financial constraints, funding for disaster supplies has been cut, and some preparedness programs were reduced or eliminated. A ballot measure to increase pandemic preparedness funding failed after its key financial supporter was convicted.

Read the full article

The post As California Taps Pandemic Stockpile for Bird Flu, Officials Keep Close Eye on Spending appeared first on kffhealthnews.org