The Peterson Center on Healthcare released a new report that recommends policymakers narrow payment guidelines for a service they think could rocket spending in the public sector. The costs of remote monitoring on Medicare have grown significantly in the years since the codes became available to providers, from $6.8 million in 2019 to $194.5 million in 2023. The services can be used for a host of chronic conditions that many Americans suffer from, including diabetes, hypertension and heart disease.
A coalition of 39 state attorneys general called on Congress to pass legislation prohibiting pharmacy benefit managers and parent companies from owning or operating pharmacies. In an April 14 letter, the attorneys general said such ownership practices distort competition, drive up prices and limit consumer access to affordable prescriptions. PBMs control most of the prescription drug market, with the letter stating that three PBMs now process 80% of prescriptions nationwide and collect 70% of specialty drug revenue.
The Trump administration’s steep tariffs on Chinese imports are threatening to further destabilize hospitals’ bottom lines by driving up the cost of essential supplies and exacerbating already fragile supply chains. As providers prepare for higher expenses and potential shortages, experts warn that these policies could worsen care quality and force hospitals to make tough financial decisions — from cutting services to delaying tech upgrades.
Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) reorganization plans appear to have been revealed through a leaked Office of Management and Budget (OMB) document. The 64-page PDF with HHS’ plans were first reported by Inside Medicine and later reported by The Washington Post and other news publications. In an update, Inside Medicine said the entire document was authenticated by The Washington Post. The HHS has not authenticated the document and has not yet responded to a request for comment.
Walgreens has agreed to pay $350 million to resolve allegations it filled millions of unlawful opioid prescriptions and submitted false claims for payment to federal healthcare programs. The settlement includes a $300 million base payment and an additional $50 million if the company is merged or sold before 2032, according to an April 21 news release from the Justice Department. The government’s complaint alleged that from August 2012 through March 1, 2023, Walgreens knowingly filled unlawful controlled substance prescriptions including excessive quantities of opioids and early refills.
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