Read today’s Kaiser Health News
In other news:
RFK Jr. pulls $500 million in funding for vaccine development: The Department of Health and Human Services will cancel contracts and pull funding for some vaccines that are being developed to fight respiratory viruses like COVID-19 and the flu.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced in a statement Tuesday that 22 projects, totaling $500 million, to develop vaccines using mRNA technology will be halted.
About health insurance/insurers
Oscar posts $228M loss in Q2, expects 2026 profitability: Oscar Health reported a net loss of $228 million in the second quarter of 2025, compared to $56 million in net income during the same quarter last year, according to its Aug. 6 financial report.
“Oscar is well-positioned to manage through the market reset in 2025,” CEO Mark Bertolini said. “We believe the market will stabilize next year, and expect to return to profitability in 2026. We are building the individual market into a healthcare marketplace for more consumers and businesses, and continue to position the company for long-term growth.”
Total revenue was $2.86 billion for the three months ended June 30, up 29% year over year.
The company’s operating loss was $230 million in Q2.
Aetna to adopt new Medicare inpatient payment change: 6 things to know: For eligible stays, Aetna will automatically approve the inpatient admission without requiring a medical necessity review up front.
While an admission itself will be approved, payment will vary based on clinical severity.
Top stats on Medicare Advantage enrollment, costs in 2025 A great review from KFF.