Small Bump for Medicare Advantage Plans in 2027

Medicare Advantage Payments See Minimal Increase

The Trump administration has announced a slight increase in payments for Medicare Advantage plans for next year. The average raise is less than 0.1%, significantly lower than the 4% to 6% the industry had anticipated. This announcement comes alongside new rules that may restrict how insurance companies utilize medical codes.

Kaiser Permanente Workers Strike in California and Hawaii

Over 31,000 Kaiser Permanente employees in California and Hawaii have gone on strike, protesting what they describe as unfair labor practices. They are demanding that Kaiser return to the bargaining table. The strike could significantly impact hospitals and clinics in the affected regions.

Hennepin Healthcare Cuts Jobs and Programs

In Minnesota, Hennepin Healthcare is reducing its workforce by 100 jobs and eliminating five medical programs. The cuts are aimed at addressing a $50 million budget deficit by the end of March.

University of Minnesota Secures 10-Year Healthcare Partnership

On a brighter note, the University of Minnesota, Fairview, and M Physicians have finalized a 10-year agreement to support the medical school and training programs.

Hospitals Embrace New Heart Treatment Technology

Healthcare providers are increasingly adopting pulsed field ablation, a newer and safer treatment for heart conditions. Although the initial costs are higher, hospitals are enthusiastic about its long-term benefits.

Healthcare Billing Errors Cause Confusion

A Maryland woman received a bill for her child's checkup, despite believing they had insurance. The error highlights the complexities and potential pitfalls of healthcare billing.

Remembering Thomas Fogarty, a Pioneer in Vascular Surgery

This week, we lost Thomas Fogarty, a 91-year-old medical innovator who revolutionized vascular surgery. His inventions, inspired by childhood tinkering, have saved countless lives.