SUMMARY: Health care is a pivotal issue in the presidential election, influencing the future of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which affects over 40 million people. Recent remarks by Trump and Vance regarding potential ACA changes raised scrutiny among Republicans. Over 1,500 doctors urged Trump to clarify his health care plan. Democrats, led by Vice President Kamala Harris, aim to expand the ACA and maintain protections for preexisting conditions. Republicans, however, propose deregulation that could undermine these protections. The outcome will likely hinge on congressional control and proposed changes could significantly impact Medicaid funding and ACA user subsidies.

Read the full article

The post Presidential Election Puts Affordable Care Act Back in the Bull’s-Eye appeared first on kffhealthnews.org

SUMMARY: Bird flu cases among U.S. farmworkers have surged, with California reporting its 15th infection and Washington seven probable cases. However, researchers cite poor surveillance and communication challenges, as many farm owners refuse monitoring for the virus. Emails reveal that efforts to track infections are hindered by delays and inconsistencies, raising concerns about undetected cases. Public health officials are understaffed and face resistance, complicating their efforts. As the flu season approaches, experts warn that the virus could mutate if co-infection occurs. There is a pressing need for improved testing and monitoring to prevent a potential outbreak among humans.

Read the full article

The post Exclusive: Emails Reveal How Health Departments Struggle To Track Human Cases of Bird Flu appeared first on kffhealthnews.org

SUMMARY: In Cuthbert, Georgia, Adams Family Pharmacy co-owner Nikki Bryant offers coffee and baked goods to supplement income, struggling against pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) that drive up drug costs and complicate access to medications. Despite hopes for state legislation to align reimbursements with chain pharmacies, Governor Kemp vetoed it, citing significant costs. The FTC recently sued major PBMs for manipulating drug prices, which threatens independent pharmacies. Critics argue that PBMs exploit pricing spread, harming local pharmacies like Bryant’s, which daily faces competition with large chains amidst financial pressures. The situation exemplifies ongoing challenges for independent pharmacies nationwide.

Read the full article

The post PBM Math: Big Chains Are Paid $23.55 To Fill a Blood Pressure Rx. Small Drugstores? $1.51. appeared first on kffhealthnews.org