About the public’s health
Global Health Security [GHS] Index 2019: This report looks at the health security of countries using six dimensions. The US is at the top of the combined ratings and does well on the first five measures: Prevention of the emergence or release of pathogens (1); Early detection and reporting of epidemics of potential international concern (1); Rapid response to and mitigation of the spread of an epidemic (2); Suficient and robust health system to treat the sick and protect health workers (1); and Commitments to improving national capacity, financing and adherence to norms. The place where we need improvement is: Overall risk environment and country vulnerability to biological threats (14).
Since we are a global community as far as these threats, the bad news is: “The average overall GHS Index score among all 195 countries assessed is 40.2 of a possible score of 100. Among the 60 high-income countries, the average GHS Index score is 51.9. In addition, 116 high- and middle-income countries do not score above 50.” We really need world-wide, coordinated action on these items.
FDA clears duodenoscope sheath for protection against infections: These instruments have been sources of infection because they are difficult to sterilize. Now the FDA has approved a disposable, sterile cover to reduce contamination potential. The article had a picture of the device.
Economic Impact of Non-Medical Opioid Use in the United States: Annual Estimates and Projections for 2015 through 2019: This report from the Society of Actuaries estimates “that the total economic burden of the opioid crisis in the United States from 2015 through 2018 was at least $631 billion. This estimate includes costs associated with additional health care services for those impacted by opioid use disorder (OUD), premature mortality, criminal justice activities, child and family assistance programs, education programs and lost productivity. Importantly, this estimate does not include impacts for which there is a lack of adequate data, yet that are still meaningful and may be significant, as described throughout this report. For example, a few such impacts include reductions in household (non-paid) productivity, reductions in productive output while at work (presenteeism), and reductions in quality of life for those impacted directly or indirectly by OUD.”
Some Hospitals Sue Opioid Makers For Costs Of Treating Uninsured For Addiction: Speaking of the opioid epidemic, it was inevitable that other entities would sue to recoup their costs in dealing with this problem- in this case, it’s hospitals.
Big U.S. retailers pull 22-ounce J&J baby powder off shelves after recall: In addition to J&J, retailers are also pulling its baby powder from shelves because of asbestos contamination.
About health insurance
Feds owe health insurers $1.6 billion in unpaid subsidies, judge rules: “A federal judge this week ordered the federal government to pay about 100 health insurance plans a total $1.6 billion in unpaid subsidies.” The subsidies were for cost-sharing reductions that the Trump administration cut - causing premiums to soar. The largest “winner” is Kaiser which stands to get more than $220 million. The federal government will undoubtedly appeal the ruling.
Trump administration delays start of new primary care payment model to 2021: CMS’ Primary Care First model was supposed to be launched next year. Instead, yesterday’s request for applications had a start date of 2021. No reason was given for the change. The new date does not affect the current Comprehensive Primary Care Plus (CPC+) program. One track in this newer model pays primary care physicians in smaller groups (or solo practice) a set monthly fee with bonuses for keeping patients out of the hospital.
About healthcare IT
Amazon acquires startup Health Navigator to build on its Amazon Care program: “Health Navigator will become part of Amazon Care, a new virtual health service benefit for employees and their families in the Seattle region.”
About pharma
Amgen to make cholesterol drug Repatha available only at lower list price next year: “Amgen said Thursday that its PCSK9 inhibitor Repatha (evolocumab) will be distributed exclusively at the 60% lower list price of $5850 per year as of December 31, and will no longer be available at its original price of $14 000.”
About healthcare professionals
HHS announces $319M in loan repayments for docs, providers caring for underserved: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced it is providing an additional $319 million for loan repayment and scholarship programs for healthcare professionals who provide care in underserved communities. The awards come from the National Health Service Corps (NHSC).