FluMist Quadrivalent could become the first self-administered flu vaccine in the United States; the American Society of Reproductive Medicine updates its definition of infertility to be more inclusive; the Environmental Protection Agency moves to ban the use of a cancer-causing chemical .
AstraZeneca's FluMist Quadrivalent Seeks FDA Approval for Self-Administration
The FDA has accepted AstraZeneca’s its application for review, seeking approval for patients or caregivers to administer its nasal flu vaccine, FluMist Quadrivalent, according to Reuters. If approved, this vaccine could mark the first self-administered flu vaccine that does not require a health care practitioner for administration. AstraZeneca anticipates an FDA decision in the first quarter of 2024 and, if approved, plans to make the vaccine available for self-administration during the 2024-2025 flu season in the United States. The application is supported by data from a usability study that confirmed individuals over 18 years of age could self-administer the vaccine with instructions, benefiting eligible patients aged 2 to 49 years.
Revised Definition of Infertility Broadens Inclusivity and Access to Reproductive Medicine
The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) has issued a revised definition of infertility that aims to be more inclusive, according to CNN. Under the new definition, infertility includes anyone needing medical interventions to achieve a successful pregnancy, whether as an individual or with a partner. The updated definition also explicitly considers those who require medical assistance to build their families, including individuals who are single or in same-sex relationships. This change is intended to ensure equal access to infertility treatment and care for all, regardless of marital status, sexual orientation, or gender identity. The new definition seeks to remove one of the excuses insurance companies have used to deny coverage for necessary medical care related to infertility.
EPA Proposes Ban on Trichloroethylene, a Cancer-Causing Chemical Found in Consumer Products
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed banning the use of trichloroethylene (TCE), a cancer-causing chemical found in consumer products, according to The Associated Press. TCE is known to cause sudden death or kidney cancer at high exposure levels and neurological harm even at lower exposures over an extended period. The EPA's risk evaluation studies indicated that up to 250 million pounds of TCE are still produced in the United States each year. The move aims to address TCE's toxic legacy in communities and protect people from exposure to this hazardous chemical. The decision comes after years of battling to ban TCE, which has been associated with contaminated drinking water in various locations, including the city of Woburn, Massachusetts.
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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Health Equity and Access Weekly Roundup: April 27, 2024
April 27th 2024Racial disparities in end-of-life care, the role of wellness and faith in minority health, award-winning research on health disparities, societal factors impacting cardiometabolic health, and rising mental health challenges among US youth are all covered this week in the Center on Health Equity and Access.
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Navigating Health Policy in an Election Year: Insights From Dr Dennis Scanlon
April 2nd 2024On this episode of Managed Care Cast, we're talking with Dennis Scanlon, PhD, the editor in chief of The American Journal of Accountable Care®, about prior authorization, price transparency, the impact of health policy on the upcoming election, and more.
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Dr Kathy Zackowski Discusses the Importance of Rehabilitation Research and Trials in MS
April 26th 2024Kathy Zackowski, PhD, National MS Society, expresses the inherent value of quality rehabilitation trials for broadening clinical understandings of multiple sclerosis (MS) and bettering patient outcomes.
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