Health Policy

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. unveiled a federal initiative that he says is intended to curb what the department describes as inappropriate prescribing of psychiatric medications — including widely used antidepressants such as Prozac and Zoloft — while expanding access to nonmedication treatments like psychotherapy and family support services. Mental health groups and psychiatrists said some elements, including better training and safer tapering support, could be helpful, but criticized Kennedy’s framing as too simplistic.

March 23, 2026 Reported by AI

The German federal government plans to eliminate free co-insurance for spouses in statutory health and long-term care insurance. The move aims to plug budget shortfalls at health insurance funds and will make coverage more expensive for many families. Handelsblatt learned of this from coalition sources.

Andreas Gassen, head of the Kassenärztlicher Bundesverband, advocates for closing more hospitals and expanding ambulatory care in Germany. He criticizes health insurers' cost-cutting plans and demands higher taxes on tobacco and alcohol, plus a sugar tax. The revenues should be earmarked for the health system.

December 08, 2025 Reported by AI Fact checked

Republican lawmakers are advocating for high-deductible health plans paired with government-funded health savings accounts as an alternative to Affordable Care Act subsidies. This approach aims to empower patients but has drawn criticism for leaving many with substantial medical debt. Personal stories highlight the financial burdens faced by those with such coverage.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has finalized a rule to reduce administrative burdens from prior authorization requirements in Medicare Advantage plans. The policy aims to speed up approvals and improve patient access to care. It will affect millions of enrollees starting in 2026.

October 02, 2025 Reported by AI

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has issued a proposed rule to strengthen safeguards for Medicaid eligibility determinations. This move addresses widespread coverage losses during the post-pandemic unwinding process. The rule aims to ensure states comply with federal requirements for notices and appeals.