Life

Health, science, climate, and society-focused reporting.

Abortion-Related Ballot Initiatives: Analyzing Post-Dobbs Trends Across States

Since the Dobbs decision, 17 states have engaged in ballot measures concerning abortion, indicating varying state-level responses and infrastructure implications.

Editorial Staff Mar 24

Life

CMS Initiates Pilot Program for Children with Complex Health Needs

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is launching a pilot program aimed at integrating care for children with complex health conditions, led by Administrator Mehmet Oz.

Editorial Staff Mar 24

Life

FTC Settlement with CVS Targets Insulin Price Manipulation

The FTC's proposed settlement with CVS aims to address allegations of price manipulation by its pharmacy benefit manager, potentially saving consumers $7 billion over the next decade.

Editorial Staff Mar 24

Life

Analysis Reveals Minimal Financial Impact of Drug Company Kickback Penalties

An analysis indicates that drugmakers penalized for kickbacks paid only 2.2% of their U.S. revenue from the implicated drugs over the past 25 years.

Editorial Staff Mar 24

Life

FDA Criticizes ImmunityBio's Claims on Cancer Treatment

The FDA has issued a strong rebuke to Patrick Soon-Shiong and ImmunityBio, citing false and misleading claims regarding a cancer treatment's efficacy.

Editorial Staff Mar 24

Life

Implications of Trump's Approach to CDC and ACIP

Trump's forthcoming decisions regarding the CDC and ACIP could significantly influence public health policy and operational frameworks, reflecting the impact of RFK Jr.'s MAHA movement.

Editorial Staff Mar 24

Life

2024 ACA Marketplace Claims Denials: Infrastructure Challenges Identified

An analysis of claims denials in the ACA Marketplace highlights significant operational challenges, with insurers denying 19% of in-network claims in 2024.

Editorial Staff Mar 24

Life

Deepfake X-rays Pose Risks to Medical Imaging Integrity

The emergence of deepfake technology in medical imaging raises significant concerns regarding diagnostic accuracy and patient care. Researchers warn that these manipulated images could disrupt healthcare delivery.

Editorial Staff Mar 24

Life

AI Doctor Startup Secures Funding and Plans FDA Engagement

An AI doctor startup has successfully raised new capital and is preparing to engage with the FDA, indicating a significant step towards regulatory compliance and market entry.

Editorial Staff Mar 24

Life

Understanding the BALANCE Model for GLP-1s in Medicare and Medicaid

This brief outlines the current coverage of GLP-1s in Medicare and Medicaid, focusing on CMS's BALANCE model aimed at enhancing access and reducing costs.

Editorial Staff Mar 24

Life

Gilead's Acquisition of Immunology Biotech: Implications for Galapagos

Gilead's acquisition of an immunology biotech provides critical support for Galapagos, highlighting strategic moves in the biopharmaceutical landscape.

Editorial Staff Mar 24

Life

Analysis of Drug Pricing Reforms and Gilead's New Deal

Recent comments from a senior health official during the Trump administration reveal critical flaws in the proposed most-favored nation drug pricing plan, alongside insights into Gilead's latest deal.

Editorial Staff Mar 24

Life

Analyzing Post-Pandemic Memory: Insights from 'Whiplash'

In their book 'Whiplash', Blumenthal and Morone explore the unique aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting shifts in public perception of scientists.

Editorial Staff Mar 24

Life

Analysis of Potential Loophole in Trump’s Drug Pricing Strategy

Recent discussions highlight inconsistencies in Trump's approach to international drug pricing, suggesting a potential loophole that could affect U.S. healthcare costs.

Editorial Staff Mar 24

Life

Insights from a Science Communicator's Journey in an End-Times Church

Paul Martin Jensen's experience growing up in a Pentecostal church informs his approach to combating misinformation, particularly through his passion for snakes.

Editorial Staff Mar 24

Life

Tennessee Legislation May Impact CVS Health's Operational Structure

A new proposal in Tennessee could compel CVS Health to reevaluate its business model, potentially leading to significant operational changes or withdrawal from the state.

Editorial Staff Mar 23

Life

Disproportionate Impact of NIH Grant Terminations on Women Scientists

A recent study indicates that NIH grant terminations are affecting women scientists, particularly those in early-career stages, more than their male counterparts.

Editorial Staff Mar 23

Life

New Company Leverages Arbitration Process in No Surprises Act

A recent investigation reveals how a new entity is capitalizing on the arbitration mechanisms established by the No Surprises Act, impacting healthcare infrastructure.

Editorial Staff Mar 23

Life

Understanding Medicaid Managed Care: Key Insights for Infrastructure

This overview highlights the structure and operational implications of Medicaid managed care, the predominant method for states to provide services to enrollees.

Editorial Staff Mar 23

Life

Epic's Lawsuit Highlights Vulnerabilities in Patient Record Sharing Infrastructure

Epic's recent lawsuit reveals significant vulnerabilities in the patient record sharing ecosystem, prompting calls for HHS to enhance regulatory oversight.

Editorial Staff Mar 23