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What We're Reading: Promoting Off-Label Uses; VA Reform Bill; Medical Marijuana for Patients With Cancer
Tennessee has become the second state to pass a law allowing pharmaceutical companies to market their products for off-label uses; a House panel advanced legislation that would expand access to private sector care outside of the Veterans Affairs (VA) health system; and nearly half of oncologists recommend medical marijuana to their patients.
Allowing Pharma to Promote Off-Label Uses
Veterans Affairs Reform Bill
Medical Marijuana For Patients With Cancer
Tennessee has become the second state to pass a law allowing pharmaceutical companies to market their products for off-label uses, as long as the information given to doctors is accurate. The law goes into effect July 1 and comes amid rising pressure for the FDA to loosen regulations for off-label use, reported STAT News. Arizona became the first state to enact such legislation last March.Earlier this week, a House panel advanced legislation that would expand the number of veterans who are eligible to see private health specialists and would entitle veterans enrolled in the Veterans Affairs (VA) health system to see a private doctor twice a year without a co-pay, according to The Hill. The reform package, called the VA Mission Act, also includes $5.2 billion to keep the Veterans Choice Program funded until the implementation of the new system.A new survey of 237 oncologists nationwide found that approximately 80% discuss medical marijuana with their patients, NPR reported. Although less than 30% of them feel they have sufficient knowledge to advise them about medical use, nearly half do recommend medical marijuana for their patients. The survey also indicated that the majority of conversations about medical marijuana were initiated by the patient.
Standard Criteria for Loss of Ambulation Needed in DMD
April 19th 2024A recent study suggests the differences between ambulation definitions for patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) can impact the identification of ambulant vs nonambulant individuals, and standard criteria across settings are needed.
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Overcoming Employment Barriers for Lasting Social Impact: Freedom House 2.0 and Pathways to Work
April 16th 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. Welcome to our second episode, in which we learn all about Freedom House 2.0 and the Pathways to Work program.
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Early Involvement Critical in Treating Immunotherapy-Induced Overlap Syndrome
April 19th 2024A series of case studies reveals the importance of early diagnosis and involvement of special teams of clinicians when dealing with potential cases of overlap syndrome, which encompasses myocarditis, myasthenia gravis, and immune checkpoint inhibitor–related myositis.
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Making Giant Strides in Maternity Health Through Baby Steps
April 9th 2024To help celebrate and recognize National Minority Health Month, we are kicking off a special month-long podcast series with our strategic alliance partner, UPMC Health Plan. Welcome to our first episode, which is all about the Baby Steps Maternity Program and its mission to support women throughout every step of their pregnancy journey.
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