There is discrepancy between the FDA’s accelerated approval decisions and clinical benefits in cancer treatments; former President Donald Trump’s video statement avoids a clear stance on national abortion legislation; 40% of therapists say they will increase their fees this year.
Limited Benefits of Cancer Drugs Granted Accelerated Approval
A recent study found that most cancer drugs granted accelerated approval by the FDA do not demonstrate significant clinical benefits within 5 years, according to The Associated Press. Despite the program’s intent to expedite access to promising treatments, only 43% of these drugs showed clinical benefit in confirmatory trials, raising concerns about patient understanding and informed decision-making. With recent updates to the program granting the FDA more authority, efforts are underway to ensure faster withdrawal of drugs that fail to meet their commitments.
Trump Defers Abortion Decision to States
In a video posted to Truth Social, former President Donald Trump avoided endorsing federal abortion legislation, instead advocating for state-based decisions on the issue, according to The Hill. While reiterating his support for overturning Roe v Wade and emphasizing his role in appointing conservative Supreme Court justices, his statement remained evasive regarding his stance on signing a federal abortion ban, drawing criticism from both anti-abortion activists and Democrats.
Four in 10 Therapists Plan to Raise Fees in 2024
A survey conducted by Heard revealed that 40% of therapists intend to increase their fees in 2024, with inflation and economic uncertainties being cited as contributing factors, according to Fierce Healthcare. Although most therapists reported earning less than $100,000 in gross income and profit from their practices in 2023, many still offer sliding scale fees or pro bono sessions to ensure accessibility. Additionally, despite the popularity of cash payments, most therapists still accept some form of insurance, with Aetna being the most common payer.
Enhancing Outpatient Hemophilia Care May Improve Health Outcomes and Costs
May 18th 2024Prospective data from patients attending a rural practice in West Virginia between 2016 and 2023 show that a quality improvement program that followed guideline recommendations and was tailored to specific patient needs reduced preventable bleeds and lowered costs.
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CMS Medicare Final Rule: Advancing Benefits, Competition, and Consumer Protection
May 7th 2024On this episode of Managed Care Cast, we're talking with Karen Iapoce, senior director of government products and programs at ZeOmega, about the recent CMS final rule on Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage.
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Health Equity and Access Weekly Roundup: May 18, 2024
May 18th 2024The US Senate hosted a panel addressing physician and health care shortages and efforts to increase minority representation in the medical field. An expert discussed initiatives to prevent senior homelessness. Advocates called for the repeal of the Comstock Act. Regulatory reforms are called for to improve rural cancer patients' access to pharmacies. Research reveals the impact of denials on patient access to immunology treatments.
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Covering antiobesity medications like semaglutide could save Medicare around $500 million annually; preliminary CDC data showed a 3% decline in the number of US overdose deaths last year; the Biden administration recently announced the first national maternal mental health strategy.
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