States channel billions into housing for the homeless using Medicaid funds; AstraZeneca invests $300 million to discover and develop cell therapies; the CDC highlights dangers of menthol cigarette addiction.
Medicaid Money Allocated Into Housing for the Homeless
At least 19 states across the US are funneling Medicaid dollars into housing initiatives aimed at tackling homelessness among the poorest and sickest Americans, according to Kaiser Health News. California leads the charge with a $12 billion investment, followed by efforts in states including Arizona ($550 million), Oregon (more than $1 billion), and Arkansas (approximately $100 million). However, although proponents argue that housing assistance can improve health outcomes and save taxpayer money, skeptics question whether this shift from traditional medical care is the best use of Medicaid funding.
AstraZeneca Invests $300 Million in Cell Therapy Facility
AstraZeneca has announced a $300 million investment in a new facility located in Rockville, Maryland, dedicated to the discovery and development of cell therapies, according to Reuters. This site is part of the latest investment for AstraZeneca, following partnerships with Quell Therapeutics, AbelZeta, and Cellectis, and the acquisition of Neogene Therapeutics, according to a recent press release. The move is expected to create over 150 jobs initially, focusing on manufacturing cell therapies for clinical trials, with potential expansion into other disease areas.
CDC Revives Antismoking Ad Campaign Targeting Menthol Cigarettes
The CDC has relaunched an antismoking advertising campaign with a focus on combatting menthol cigarette use, according to The Hill. Aimed at reducing smoking rates, particularly among minority communities, the campaign highlights the dangers of menthol cigarettes and the higher risk of addiction and health issues associated with them. This initiative underscores ongoing efforts to address tobacco-related disparities and promote public health awareness regarding menthol cigarette consumption.
CMS' 340B Repayment Proposal May Harm Vulnerable Hospitals, Reward Those With Higher Revenues
April 26th 2024The 340B hospitals not receiving an offsetting lump-sum payment from CMS following 2018-2022 cuts later ruled unlawful are disproportionately rural, publicly owned, and nonacademic, according to a new study.
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Examining Low-Value Cancer Care Trends Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic
April 25th 2024On this episode of Managed Care Cast, we're talking with the authors of a study published in the April 2024 issue of The American Journal of Managed Care® about their findings on the rates of low-value cancer care services throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Empowering Community Health Through Wellness and Faith
April 23rd 2024To help celebrate and recognize National Minority Health Month, we are bringing you a special month-long podcast series with our Strategic Alliance Partner, UPMC Health Plan. In the third episode, Camille Clarke-Smith, EdD, MS, CHES, CPT, discusses approaching community health holistically through spiritual and community engagement.
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Mental Health Diagnoses, Care Challenges Rise Among US Youth, Report Finds
April 26th 2024While behavioral health care utilization has been rising, the treatment landscape has been worsening. New findings show that 20% of youths did not receive any form of treatment within 3 months of their initial behavioral health diagnosis.
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