Politics and Policy

Policy makers question whether increased reliance on health plans will provide quality care while controlling costs

Blocking consumers from using health care resources backfired in a big way. Now the big idea is to put consumers in charge. Is the concept on target?

High court rulings shape health plan policies.

Congress rejects White House Medicare pharmacy plan while moving forwardwith its own reform strategy

MCOs are on the front lines to deliver benefits, curb Medicare and Medicaid spending

A sharp rise in healthcare spending puts the spotlight squarely on theerosion of managed care

Initiatives that promote industry competition remain key to modernizingthe nation's healthcare system

Legislators seek Medicare "givebacks," malpractice reform,tax credits for health insurance

Officials don't expect the situation to improve as tax revenues declineand healthcare costs continue to rise

The U.S. health care system is at a crossroads. Purchasers must think what lies around the bend before they abandon proven tactics in a flurry of short-term cost sharing.

The 10th annual State of Health Care in America is now available online. We've highlighted a few select articles below, or click the link above for the full Table of Contents.

Responding to terrorism sidetracked Congressional work on health care, but the issues aren't about to go away.

House panel examines soaring insurance rates, while analysts paint gloomypicture for M+C program

Vote helps M+C plans and pressures the Senate to act, while HomelandSecurity proposals raise concerns

Bioterrorism bill gives MCOs more time to file rates for next year, as payment "give back" deliberations continue

Runaway litigation is boosting healthcare costs and reducing patient access to care

Employees with disabilities have more than physical limitations to overcome. The legal system itself may be just as disabling.

Americans complain about access, while MCOs struggle with appeals, privacyand reimbursement

Medicaid is on the rocks already, and the Medicare+Choice program isn'tvery far behind

Administration health agenda includes drug benefits for low-income seniors and support for patients' rights

National health protection and the economy redefine the issues

Legislators postponed key decisions on Medicare rates, mental healthreform and assistance for the uninsured

National health protection and the economy redefine the issues

The September terrorist attacks and the subsequent anthrax scare haveprompted managed care organizations, healthcare providers and governmentagencies to expand emergency preparedness efforts and reevaluate policiesand programs. Stung by criticism of its confusing response to the bioterrorismthreat, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has created anew Office of Preparedness and brought in new infectious disease and vaccineexperts to rescue the situation.

News brief.