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Fierce Healthcare Discusses Federal Health Policy Shifts Under Trump Administration

Fierce Healthcare Discusses Federal Health Policy Shifts Under Trump Administration

Fierce Healthcare recently hosted a roundtable discussion at the Fierce Health Payer Summit, focusing on significant changes in healthcare policy since President Trump took office. The discussion highlighted several key areas, including Medicaid funding cuts, changes to Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies, and the financial impact on hospitals. Additionally, the roundtable addressed the federal government's evolving approach to health technology, particularly through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and its new health tech ecosystem. The conversation also touched on the ongoing scrutiny and potential reforms of Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs), which have been a contentious issue in healthcare policy.

CLEAR Partners with CMS to Enhance Identity Verification in Healthcare

CLEAR Partners with CMS to Enhance Identity Verification in Healthcare

CLEAR, a company known for its identity verification technology, has signed a contract with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to improve identity verification in the U.S. healthcare system. This partnership is part of CMS's 'Kill the Clipboard' initiative, which aims to modernize Medicare by enhancing interoperability and reducing fraud. CLEAR's technology uses biometric data and document checks to verify identities, allowing patients and providers to confirm their identities with a simple selfie. The initiative is expected to streamline healthcare processes and improve security.

President Trump's Health Account Proposal Leaves Millions in Debt

President Trump's Health Account Proposal Leaves Millions in Debt

President Trump's proposal for health accounts, paired with high-deductible health plans, has been implemented in the past, resulting in significant medical debt for many Americans. Sarah Monroe, a middle-class resident from Cleveland, experienced this firsthand when she was diagnosed with a heart condition during her pregnancy, leading to over $13,000 in medical debt despite having insurance. High-deductible plans require individuals to pay substantial out-of-pocket costs before insurance coverage begins, a model that has gained attention from GOP leaders as an alternative to government-subsidized healthcare. These plans were initially intended to empower patients to seek cost-effective care, but have often resulted in financial strain due to rising medical costs and the impracticality of shopping for complex medical services.

Passengers disrupted by A320 software update not entitled to airline compensation, USDOT says

Passengers disrupted by A320 software update not entitled to airline compensation, USDOT says

By David Shepardson WASHINGTON, Dec 9 (Reuters) - Airlines that delayed or canceled U.S. flights last month due to an emergency government directive to update the software on Airbus A320 planes were not required to provide hotels, meals or other benefits to impacted passengers, the U.S.

USTR Greer says he's open to 'different treatment' of South Africa under trade initiative

USTR Greer says he's open to 'different treatment' of South Africa under trade initiative

By Andrea Shalal WASHINGTON, Dec 9 (Reuters) - U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on Tuesday said he is open to treating South Africa differently than other African countries if Washington extends a trade initiative with sub-Saharan Africa that expired in September.

U.S. Considers Social Media Checks for Visa Waiver Travelers

U.S. Considers Social Media Checks for Visa Waiver Travelers

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is considering a new policy that would require travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries to provide detailed personal information, including social media accounts, email addresses, and family history, before being allowed to travel to the United States. This proposal, announced in the Federal Register, is part of the Trump administration's efforts to enhance security measures for international travelers. The policy would affect citizens from approximately 40 countries, primarily in Europe and Asia, who currently do not need a visa to enter the U.S. The public has 60 days to comment on the proposed changes.

FDA Launches Pilot Program for Digital Health Devices to Access Medicare Payment

FDA Launches Pilot Program for Digital Health Devices to Access Medicare Payment

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has introduced a new pilot program that allows digital health devices to access a Medicare payment option through the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). This initiative, known as the Technology-Enabled Meaningful Patient Outcomes (TEMPO) for Digital Health Devices Pilot, aims to facilitate the collection of real-world data by waiving certain premarket authorization and investigational device requirements. The CMS program, called Advancing Chronic Care with Effective, Scalable Solutions (ACCESS), is designed to address barriers in care due to Medicare’s fee-for-service model. It will provide recurring payments to healthcare sites managing patients with qualifying conditions, contingent on achieving measurable health outcomes. The FDA plans to accept up to 10 U.S.-based manufacturers in each of four focus areas: early cardio-kidney-metabolic, cardio-kidney-metabolic, musculoskeletal, and behavioral health.

IRS Expands Health Savings Account Eligibility Under President Trump's Legislation

IRS Expands Health Savings Account Eligibility Under President Trump's Legislation

The U.S. Department of the Treasury and the IRS have released new guidance on health savings account (HSA) updates as part of President Donald Trump's legislative initiative, referred to as the 'big beautiful bill.' This legislation introduces expanded eligibility for HSAs, allowing more individuals to save for healthcare costs through tax-free accounts. The changes include making bronze and catastrophic ACA marketplace plans HSA-compatible, even if they do not meet previous high-deductible health plan (HDHP) criteria. Starting in 2026, enrollees in these plans can contribute to HSAs. Additionally, the legislation makes permanent the 'safe harbor' for telehealth services under HDHPs, allowing individuals to use these services without affecting their HSA eligibility. The IRS also announced that certain direct primary care arrangements will not block HSA contributions, and HSAs can be used to cover these fees.

President Trump's H-1B Visa Fee Increase Threatens Rural Healthcare

President Trump's H-1B Visa Fee Increase Threatens Rural Healthcare

President Trump's administration has introduced a new $100,000 fee for H-1B visas, which is impacting rural hospitals that rely on immigrant healthcare workers. The fee aims to deter companies from hiring foreign workers, citing abuse of the previous H-1B program. However, rural areas, which depend heavily on immigrant doctors, nurses, and lab technicians, are facing potential staffing shortages as a result. The increased cost of hiring foreign healthcare professionals could lead to reduced access to medical care in these communities, exacerbating existing healthcare challenges.

Senate Faces Crucial Vote on ACA Subsidies as Deadline Looms for Millions

Senate Faces Crucial Vote on ACA Subsidies as Deadline Looms for Millions

The U.S. Senate is preparing to vote on a proposal to extend Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies for three years, a decision that could significantly impact the cost of health insurance for millions of Americans. Currently, 24 million people rely on ACA marketplaces for their health insurance, and they must select a plan by December 15. The proposed extension aims to maintain current subsidy levels, preventing a sharp increase in premiums. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has emphasized the urgency of the vote, labeling it the GOP's 'last chance' to avert rising premiums. However, the proposal faces opposition from Senate Republicans, who view the extension as unrealistic. President Trump has remained largely uninvolved, though he has criticized the ACA and suggested alternative measures such as health savings accounts.

Senate to Vote on Extension of Affordable Care Act Subsidies Amid Expiration Concerns

Senate to Vote on Extension of Affordable Care Act Subsidies Amid Expiration Concerns

The Senate is poised to vote on the extension of Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies, which are set to expire soon. These subsidies have been crucial in making healthcare more affordable for millions of Americans. The impending expiration has raised concerns among lawmakers and citizens alike, as the subsidies have played a significant role in reducing the cost of health insurance premiums. The vote is expected to take place this week, and it will determine whether these financial aids will continue to support individuals who rely on them for affordable healthcare coverage.

USTR Reports Positive Compliance on China's Trade Commitments

USTR Reports Positive Compliance on China's Trade Commitments

The U.S. Trade Representative, Jamieson Greer, stated that China is complying with its trade commitments under an agreement with the Trump administration. Greer noted that while the situation is not perfect, China's actions are moving in the right direction. This compliance is part of ongoing efforts to implement the trade agreement, which includes monitoring and adjustments as necessary.