KFF Health News’ ‘What the Health?’: Live From AHCJ: Shock and Awe in Federal Health Policy

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…

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When Star Ratings Backfire: How CMS Could Better Support Health In Medicare Advantage

By EMMANUEL ANIMASHAUN The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Star Ratings system represents a cornerstone of quality assessment in Medicare Advantage (MA), designed to empower consumers with transparent information while rewarding plans that deliver superior care. Yet recent developments, particularly the seismic downgrading of Humana’s ratings reveal an unintended consequence: a system created…

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How Does U.S. Life Expectancy Compare to Other Countries?

This chart collection examines how life expectancy in the U.S. compares to that of other similarly large and wealthy countries. Between 2019 and 2022, the U.S. experienced a sharper decline and a slower rebound in life expectancy than peer countries, on average, due to increased mortality and premature death rates in the U.S. from the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2023,…

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Putting SDOH Data to Work for Systems and Patients

For healthcare leaders, actionable SDOH insights are key to advancing equity and improving patient outcomes. By investing in comprehensive engagement strategies and leveraging technology, the healthcare industry can build trust, address barriers to care, and ensure that no patient falls through the cracks. The post Putting SDOH Data to Work for Systems and Patients appeared…

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