Proposed change in autism definition may affect services
The New York Times reports that “proposed changes in the definition of autism would sharply reduce the skyrocketing rate at which the disorder is diagnosed and might make it harder for many people who would no longer meet the criteria to get health, educational and social services.”
US to drug makers: disclose doc payments
The Obama administration will soon issue guidelines to drug companies that require them to disclose payments they make to doctors for research, consulting, speaking, travel and entertainment.
Raising Medicare Eligibility Age?
Talks of how to cuts costs in healthcare continue in Washington and throughout the county. One of the measures that President Obama raised in fall talks with elected officials is raising the Medicare eligibility age.
Highmark-UPMC contract extended until 2013
Highmark customers who use UPMC doctors have an extra year not to worry about whether they’ll be able to see them without paying higher, out-of-network fees.
Painful PA budget cuts on the horizon?
PA Budget Secretary Zogby presented his mid-year budget update yesterday, and it’s not so pretty: His estimates show a projected $500M (yes, you read that correctly – MILLION) budget shortfall – and that’s the optimistic scenario.
Supreme Court to hear health care reform case in March
Yesterday, the Supreme Court set a date for oral arguments in the health care reform case from March 26-28, 2012. CNN reports that “A ruling from the court is expected by late June and regardless of the outcome, will become a major issue in a presidential election year.”
It’s that time of year…
You already know the holiday season is just around the corner, but it’s also the season for something no one celebrates: The flu.
Sebelius overrules FDA; declares Plan B cannot be sold over-the-counter
Dr. Margaret Hamburg, the F.D.A.’s commissioner, issued a lengthy statement saying it was safe to sell Plan B over the counter, while Ms. Sebelius countered that the drug’s manufacturer had failed to study whether girls as young as 11 years old could safely use Plan B, reports the New York Times.
Less Children Being Vaccinated
While vaccination rates in the U.S remain over 90%, there are pockets where those choosing not to vaccinate are causing some concerns.
Pennsylvania proceeds with state-run health insurance exchange
After months of study, the Corbett administration said Tuesday that it was moving forward with a key – and widely supported – option offered by the federal health-care overhaul: a state-run insurance exchange.