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California Hospitals Scramble on Earthquake Retrofits as State Limits Extensions

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kffhealthnews.org – Annie Sciacca – 2024-10-15 04:00:00

SUMMARY: Over half of California’s 410 hospitals have buildings that may not withstand major earthquakes, and many lack funds for necessary retrofits by the 2030 deadline. While Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed a broad extension bill for all hospitals, he approved a measure allowing small and rural facilities to apply for up to three years more. The retrofit costs are estimated between $34 billion and $143 billion statewide. Labor unions argue hospitals have had ample time and resources to comply, while hospitals cite the financial burden. Some facilities are actively retrofitting, but the state pressures those lagging behind, risking closures if standards aren’t met.

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Florida Gov. DeSantis’ Canadian Drug Import Plan Goes Nowhere After FDA Approval

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kffhealthnews.org – Phil Galewitz, KFF Health News – 2024-11-21 10:58:00

SUMMARY: Florida’s plan to import lower-cost prescription drugs from Canada, approved by the FDA nearly a year ago, has yet to launch. Governor Ron DeSantis praised the program, anticipated to save state agencies up to $180 million, but officials lack a start date. Despite bipartisan support for drug importation, complications persist, including operational challenges and safety concerns from the pharmaceutical industry. DeSantis has filed lawsuits against the FDA for delays and Florida has already spent $50 million on the initiative with no drugs imported. Other states, like Colorado, face similar hurdles in establishing importation programs.

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Washington Power Has Shifted. Here’s How the ACA May Shift, Too.

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kffhealthnews.org – Stephanie Armour and Sam Whitehead and Julie Rovner, KFF Health News – 2024-11-21 04:00:00

SUMMARY: Donald Trump’s return to the White House may inspire Republicans to weaken or repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA), but significant procedural and political challenges remain. Trump has opposed the ACA and is interested in reforming it, while GOP lawmakers aim to revamp the 2010 health law, citing costs and government overreach. Potential changes could affect Medicaid expansion, raise the uninsured rate, and increase premiums. Trump could use reconciliation to change the ACA without Democratic votes, or pursue executive actions to modify it. Critics worry that policies could lead to higher costs and reduced protections for individuals with preexisting conditions.

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After Institutions for People With Disabilities Close, Graves Are at Risk of Being Forgotten

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kffhealthnews.org – Tony Leys – 2024-11-21 04:00:00

SUMMARY: The Glenwood Resource Center in Iowa, which served individuals with disabilities for over a century, closed in June 2023 amid care allegations. Its cemetery, housing about 1,300 individuals buried with minimal markers, has become a focal point for disability rights advocates who seek proper maintenance and memorialization. As redevelopment plans are discussed, local leaders emphasize honoring the memory of those buried there, as past neglect of similar cemeteries across the U.S. has faced criticism. Efforts aim to ensure significant recognition that reflects their humanity, preventing a repeat of the erasure experienced by many individuals with disabilities in institutional care.

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