March 20, 2025

Dr. Oz has also suggested that CMS could reduce procedures subject to prior authorization by nearly 80%, a move that could significantly ease administrative burdens for providers and patients alike.

While telehealth has historically enjoyed bipartisan support, its long-term future remains uncertain. Without a stable reimbursement policy, health systems may hesitate to invest in virtual care, potentially limiting access to these critical services.

This article examines California's $3.4 billion loan from the general fund to cover Medi-Cal's rising costs, driven by expanded coverage and increasing health care expenses. It highlights the political and financial challenges facing the state as lawmakers debate budget priorities and the sustainability of Medi-Cal's funding.

This article highlights how Social Security's new policy to reclaim 100% of benefit checks for overpayment recovery could severely impact seniors' finances. For those on Medicare, the policy raises concerns about losing coverage, as many rely on automatic deductions from their Social Security checks to pay their Part B premiums, potentially leading to gaps in health care access.

Optum Rx CEO, Patrick Conway, says the move aims to streamline patient access to medications, reduce administrative burdens for pharmacists and physicians, and enhance the overall healthcare experience. This decision comes amid growing pressure on health and drug plans to reform prior authorization processes, particularly as concerns mount over algorithm-driven denials.