This analysis of preliminary rate filings submitted by 105 ACA Marketplace insurers in 19 states and DC shows that ACA Marketplace insurers are requesting a median premium increase of 15% for 2026, which would represent the largest hike in premiums since 2018, the last time policy uncertainty contributed to sharp premium growth. The scheduled expiration…
Last year in Massachusetts, after finding lumps in her breast, Jessica Chen went to Lowell General Hospital-Saints Campus, part of Tufts Medicine, for a mammogram and sonogram. Before the screenings, she asked the hospital for the estimated patient responsibility for the bill using her insurance, Tufts Health Plan. Her portion, she was told, would be…
Most of the 24 million people in Affordable Care Act health plans face a potential one-two punch next year — double-digit premium increases along with a sharp drop in the federal subsidies that most consumers depend on to buy the coverage, also known as Obamacare. Insurers want higher premiums to cover the usual culprits —…
Yesterday, the UK government released it’s Life Sciences Sector Plan (LSSP). The British government summarized the provisions as follows: 1. Unlocking NHS data to find new cures. Up to £600 million investment to build the world’s most advanced health data system – helping scientists develop better treatments faster. 2. Speeding up clinical trials. Cutting red…
A new survey from Mercer found that 51% of large employers said they are likely or very likely to make health benefit changes that would shift more costs to employees. The post Employers Will Likely Reduce Health Benefits in 2026, New Mercer Survey Reveals appeared first on MedCity News.
Most patients are open to the use of AI in healthcare — as long as it enhances, rather than replaces, human interaction, according to new research. It also showed that patients want transparency about how AI is used. The post Most Patients Want AI in Healthcare — If It Means More Time with Their Doctor…
Between 1999 and 2023, the number of heat-related deaths in the U.S. increased by 117%. KFF analysis of data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that American Indian or Alaska Native and Black people are at higher risk of experiencing a heat-related death compared to their White counterparts. Estimates suggest that heat…
This brief reviews new data from the May 2025 KFF Health Tracking Poll on LGBT adult’s experiences and concerns related to health care affordability. Overall, the findings show that LGBT adults face more widespread problems and concerns with health care affordability compared to non-LGBT adults.
The Host Julie Rovner KFF Health News @jrovner @julierovner.bsky.social Read Julie’s stories. Julie Rovner is chief Washington correspondent and host of KFF Health News’ weekly health policy news podcast, “What the Health?” A noted expert on health policy issues, Julie is the author of the critically praised reference book “Health Care Politics and Policy A…
This brief explains the preventive services coverage requirements, the basis of the Braidwood Management Inc. v. Becerra lawsuit, next steps in the litigation, and the potential implications.