Kaiser Health News - Medicare

Republicans Ask GAO To Probe Sebelius' Fundraising

Fri, 17 May 2013 14:00:00 GMT

GOP lawmakers seek an investigation of the Health and Human Services secretary's efforts to secure more funding for a private group that will help with the implementation of the health law. At the same time, an HHS spokesman offered more detail regarding whom she contacted.

Some Hospitals Under The Microscope For Steep Pricing

Fri, 17 May 2013 13:33:00 GMT

The New York Times and Los Angeles Times report on specific hospitals that have been shown to be among the most expensive in the nation. Meanwhile, Modern Healthcare reports on interest from some senators in overhauling Medicare's hospital payment system.

Tavenner Becomes Agency's First Confirmed Chief In 7 Years

Thu, 16 May 2013 14:10:00 GMT

In a 91-to-7 vote, the Senate approved President Barack Obama's pick to lead the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Marilyn Tavenner, who has been the agency's acting administrator, was endorsed by Rep. Eric Cantor, R-Va.

House GOP Lays Groundwork For Fall Budget Face-Off

Thu, 16 May 2013 13:44:00 GMT

Among the ideas being bandied about is delaying for at least two years the implementation of the health law's insurance exchanges and Medicaid expansion, according to The Wall Street Journal.

Retiree Medical Expenses Fall, But They Still Exceed Most People's Expectations

Thu, 16 May 2013 13:43:00 GMT

A study released by Fidelity Investments estimated that a couple, who are enrolled in traditional Medicare and retiring in 2013, will need $220,000 to cover medical costs throughout their retirement.

First Edition: May 16, 2013

Thu, 16 May 2013 11:20:00 GMT

Today's early morning highlights from the major news organizations, including reports about the Senate confirmation of Acting Chief Marilyn Tavenner to run the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

Deficit Projections Likely To Reduce 'Grand Bargain' Pressure

Wed, 15 May 2013 14:02:00 GMT

The Congressional Budget Office reports the deficit is shrinking at a faster-than-expected rate this year. Medicare and Medicaid outlays are smaller than anticipated, and health care cost increases appear to have slowed. The numbers are expected to lessen the momentum to cut spending on Medicare and other entitlement programs.

89 Arrested In $223 Million Medicare Fraud Schemes

Wed, 15 May 2013 14:01:00 GMT

Doctors and nurses were among those charged in the bust that spanned eight cities and focused on bogus Medicare charges.

Political Cartoon: 'Bloc On Wood?'

Wed, 15 May 2013 13:40:21 GMT

Take a look at KHN's lighter side, featuring today's cartoon and health policy haiku.

Viewpoints: Controversy Taints IRS Efforts On Health Law; Another Chance To 'Gut' The Overhaul In The Courts; Salt Wrongly Accused

Wed, 15 May 2013 13:26:29 GMT

A selection of editorials and opinions on health care from around the country.

First Edition: May 15, 2013

Wed, 15 May 2013 11:33:15 GMT

Today's early morning highlights from the major news organizations, including reports about how the latest Congressional Budget Office projections could further stall efforts to reach a grand bargain that includes changes to Medicare and other entitlement programs.

Probe Of Medicare Advantage Leak Finds Wide Speculation On Deal

Tue, 14 May 2013 13:41:42 GMT

The Wall Street Journal reports many people were talking about a possible compromise.

First Edition: May 14, 2013

Tue, 14 May 2013 11:22:25 GMT

Today's early morning highlights from the major news organizations, including reports about an Obama administration plan to delay Medicaid DSH payment reductions.

Medicare Lags In Detecting Hazardous Prescribing Patterns

Mon, 13 May 2013 13:34:36 GMT

An analysis by ProPublica and The Washington Post has found that Medicare does little to track doctor prescription patterns when they're prescribing potentially hazardous drugs.

Viewpoints: Obama Took Risk On Budget Offer And Was Slammed By Rep. Ryan; Health Law Could 'Quash' Progress On Spending

Mon, 13 May 2013 13:33:28 GMT

A selection of editorials and opinions on health care from around the country.

First Edition: May 13, 2013

Mon, 13 May 2013 11:26:53 GMT

Today's early morning highlights from the major news organizations, including reports that Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius has been seeking out funds from private sources to support efforts to publicize the health law.

GOP Leaders Refuse To Name Candidates For Medicare Cost Control Board

Fri, 10 May 2013 13:21:00 GMT

House Speaker John Boehner tells reporters that he and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell will not nominate anyone to serve on the Independent Payment Advisory Board.

Viewpoints: The Threat From 'Contagion Exhaustion;' An Economist Sees Humor In Hospital Pricing

Fri, 10 May 2013 13:18:14 GMT

A selection of editorials and opinions on health care from around the country.

Older Americans Fare Well With Budget Impasse Regarding Medicare, Other Entitlements

Fri, 10 May 2013 13:18:00 GMT

The Associated Press explores the generational issues in play regarding Medicare and other entitlement program.