POLITICO's Pulse Check

The two big ways AI is changing health care

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Artificial intelligence is changing the way doctors practice, but also how the health care business runs. Host Chelsea Cirruzzo talks with POLITICO health care reporter Daniel Payne about the ways AI is already used across the medical landscape and how regulators are responding.

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For HHS, AI is an inside job

Thu, 21 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

As federal officials scramble to regulate artificial intelligence in health care, HHS has already become one of the top federal agencies using the technology. Host Kelly Hooper talks with POLITICO health reporter Chelsea Cirruzzo about some of the 80 implemented or planned uses of AI by HHS agencies.

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A look back at abortion policy in 2023 and a look forward to 2024

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Abortion policy changes made since the fall of Roe v. Wade continue to spur ongoing political turmoil nationwide. Host Lauren Gardner talks with POLITICO health care reporter Alice Miranda Ollstein about the most significant developments surrounding abortion this year and what to expect heading into 2024.

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Fentanyl’s fatal year in review

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Fatal overdoses of the synthetic opioid have hit record highs in the U.S. Host Ben Leonard talks with POLITICO global health reporter Carmen Paun about the devastating impact of the fentanyl epidemic.

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What the USPS is hiding about worker safety

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Heat is the second-leading cause of injury to postal workers after slips and falls. Letter carriers are supposed to receive training for dealing with high temperatures, but the Postal Service acknowledged to E&E News that it had in some cases falsified training records, reporter Ariel Wittenberg tells host Kelly Hooper.

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What Biden's new fair price drug policy means

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

The Biden administration announced Thursday that drug companies receiving research funding from HHS’ emergency response arm, the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response, will have to commit to a “fair price” – not more than they charge in other countries. Host Chelsea Cirruzzo talks with POLITICO health care reporter Robert King about the Biden administration's efforts to curb high prescription drug prices.

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Congress’ health reform package: Where does it stand?

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

As Congress pursues landmark health reforms, lawmakers must align House and Senate legislation that includes ensuring transparency from hospitals, insurers and pharmacy benefit managers and reauthorizing a law that would expand treatment for opioid use disorders. Host Megan Messerly talks with POLITICO health care reporter Ben Leonard about the chances of reconciling the chambers’ competing bills.

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The future of milestone opioid law

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Congress has moved to reup treatment for opioid use disorder as the rate of fatal overdoses remains near record highs in the US. Host Lauren Gardner talks with POLITICO global health reporter Carmen Paun about the role of the SUPPORT Act in the ongoing opioid epidemic.

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How the coming mining boom could upend local health care

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Mining companies offer good jobs with good benefits that can counterintuitively damage health care access, boosting it for some while hampering it for others. Host Ben Leonard talks with POLITICO health care reporter Megan Messerly about the unintended ripple effects of mining companies' good health benefits plans.

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Why Congress is deadlocked over PEPFAR

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Congressional negotiations to reup the law governing the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief are at an impasse over abortion. Host Kelly Hooper talks with POLITICO global health reporter Carmen Paun about what's going on and what it means for a program credited with saving 25 million lives.

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Some drug patents in the Biden administration's crosshairs

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

The White House says it can use "march-in rights" to seize patents for certain medicines partly developed with federal funds. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with POLITICO White House Correspondent Adam Cancryn about how the move could give the president another tool in his effort to lower drug prices.

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Who’s calling the shots on health care policy now?

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Louisiana Republican Mike Johnson's rise to House Speaker and the departure of some key health care policy aides are shifting power on the Hill, giving more sway to the priorities of committee chairs and their senior staffers in the shaping of health care policy in 2024. Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with POLITICO health care reporter Megan R. Wilson about the changes.

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Dr. Google’s legislative test

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Google wants to make your phone a "doctor in your pocket" using artificial intelligence, but lawmakers worry the tech giant and others are innovating too fast before patient protections are set. Host Lauren Gardner talks with POLITICO health care reporter Ruth Reader about artificial intelligence and Washington's drive to regulate.

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Repeal-and-replace redux

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

The Affordable Care Act insures more than 40 million people and is very popular. Host Ben Leonard talks with POLITICO health care reporter Alice Miranda Ollstein about why calls by former President Donald Trump to replace the law could fall on deaf ears. (edited)

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Sickle cell gene-editing treatment poised for FDA approval

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

The FDA is close to a decision on a landmark one-time gene-editing treatment for patients with sickle cell disease and another blood disorder. Host Kelly Hooper talks with POLITICO health care reporter Lauren Gardner about how the therapy works, its safety profile, who will be eligible for it and the significant challenges around affordability and access.

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Trump reignites Affordable Care Act battle

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Former President Donald Trump is once again calling to repeal the Affordable Care Act, a move the Biden administration views as a political gift ahead of the 2024 election. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with POLITICO White House Correspondent Adam Cancryn about Trump’s comments and the potential political implications.

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The changing face of primary care

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Democrats and Republicans agree that the primary care system needs an overhaul. Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with POLITICO health care reporter Daniel Payne about the push to encourage nurses to take on new duties.

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China’s virus outbreak: Seasonal return or new threat?

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

China is seeing a surge in respiratory infections, especially among children, but health experts in the U.S. say it’s not a sign of another pandemic. Host Lauren Gardner talks with POLITICO global health care reporter Carmen Paun about the current outbreak and why experts say we shouldn’t be too concerned.

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Medicare Advantage plans on the rise, and under scrutiny

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Bipartisan concern is growing on Capitol Hill over reports of care denials by Medicare Advantage plans through a tool known as prior authorization. Host Ben Leonard talks with POLITICO health care reporter Robert King about the increasing congressional scrutiny.

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Organ transplant reforms stalled by lack of funding

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

President Joe Biden signed into law an overhaul of the nation's organ transplant system, the first major reform in 40 years. Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with POLITICO health care reporter Chelsea Cirruzzo about how a lack of funding has stalled the effort.

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Why the forecast is cloudy for year-end health legislation

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

The recent short-term government funding agreement has likely closed the door on typical year-end omnibus spending packages that could have advanced health priorities. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with POLITICO health care reporter David Lim about the dim prospects for passing health policies before year’s end and what it means for 2024.

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A clear and present danger

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

The latest Lancet Countdown report details the dire consequences of rising temperatures and increasing energy emissions. Host Ben Leonard talks with POLITICO EU health care reporter Ashleigh Furlong about the potential catastrophic threats climate change poses to human health.

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More infant RSV shots sent as winter nears

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

The CDC announced last week that over 77,000 additional doses of a monoclonal antibody shot protecting infants from severe RSV are being distributed to providers amid ongoing shortages. Host Kelly Hooper talks with POLITICO health care reporter Chelsea Cirruzzo about the extra doses arriving as the winter illness season approaches.

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U.K. approves world’s first gene-editing therapy

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

In a global first, the United Kingdom has approved a gene-editing treatment for some rare blood diseases that may receive U.S. approval next month. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with POLITICO Europe health care reporter Carlo Martuscelli about the U.K. decision.

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Health policy fixes in flux without year-end omnibus spending bill

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

The lack of a year-end omnibus spending bill creates uncertainty for health industry groups seeking 11th hour fixes on Medicare physician payment cuts. Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with POLITICO health care reporter Robert King about possible backup plans for the groups or fixes potentially getting added to other year-end spending bills.

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Connecticut’s solution to covering pricey weight-loss drugs

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

The high cost of weight-loss drugs has states trying to figure out how their employee health plans can afford to cover them. Host Lauren Gardner talks with POLITICO health care reporter Kelly Hooper about Connecticut’s approach, which ties health plan coverage to lifestyle programs, and whether that method can serve as a model for other states.

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Will Florida be the exception for abortion-rights supporters?

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Organizers behind an abortion-rights initiative have yet to gather enough signatures to qualify for the ballot in the Sunshine State. Host Ben Leonard talks with POLITICO policy reporter Arek Sarkissian about the challenges facing the campaign.

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GOP seeks 95 percent cut to Trumps AIDS program

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Four years ago, President Donald Trump convinced Congress to commit millions in funding toward ending AIDS. But House Republicans plan to vote this week to cut most of the funding. Host Kelly Hooper talks with POLITICO's Evan Peng about what's behind this dramatic change in Republican support.

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Voters have their say on abortion restrictions

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Support for abortion rights cuts across party lines, doing significantly better with voters than President Joe Biden and other Democrats. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with POLITICO health care reporter Megan Messerly, who breaks down the results of Tuesday’s elections and what’s ahead for the 2024 race.

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2023 Milken Future of Health summit takeaways

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

At the 2023 Milken Institute Future of Health Summit this week, experts agreed AI will revolutionize health care, but lawmakers, regulators and thought leaders warned of the risks around misinformation and data privacy, among others . Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with Politico health care reporter Daniel Payne about the key takeaways from the conference.

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Finding a doula in New York just got easier

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Doulas — birthing experts who provide nonmedical support during pregnancy and childbirth — have been shown to improve health outcomes and combat racial inequities in maternal mortality and morbidity. New York just passed legislation to increase access to doulas. Host Ruth Reader talks with POLITICO health care reporter Maya Kaufman about the law and how New York plans to expand access statewide.

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CDC panel recommends changing infection-control guidelines

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

The CDC’s advisers on infection control are proposing updates to 16-year-old guidance on how doctors can limit transmission of viral infections in health care facilities. Host Kelly Hooper talks with POLITICO health care reporter Chelsea Cirruzzo about what’s ahead for the proposed changes.

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Notable change in NY's approach to overdose prevention funding

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Gov. Kathy Hochul now opposes state funding for new overdose-prevention centers, despite an advisory board's recommendations. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with POLITICO health care reporter Maya Kaufman about the governor's shifting stance.

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Transparency concerns at drug pricing patient sessions

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0000

CMS is holding public listening sessions on Medicare price negotiations for the first 10 drugs selected, but reporting uncovered concerns patient advocates and the pharma industry have over transparency and potential conflicts of interest from some speakers. Host Ben Leonard talks with POLITICO health care reporter David Lim about the ties some speakers have to the industry or advocacy groups.

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The ACA's open enrollment began this week: Here's what's new

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The 2024 Affordable Care Act open enrollment period started Wednesday, with changes such as higher premiums and different plan choices. Federal, and in some cases state, subsidies are expected to shield most enrollees from cost hikes. Host Evan Peng talks with POLITICO health care reporter Kelly Hooper about the open enrollment process and what to expect.

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Coming to terms with AI’s future role in health care

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Artificial intelligence is working its way into health care. But, so far, government agencies have done little to regulate its use, potentially putting patients at risk for misdiagnoses, bias and privacy violations. Host Lauren Gardner talks with POLITICO health care reporter Daniel Payne about those risks and the debate over how to balance innovation and patient safety.

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The future is here: AI in health care

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

A Biden administration executive order directs HHS to develop guidelines and oversight for the use of AI in health care. Host Chelsea Cirruzzo talks with POLITICO health care reporter Ben Leonard about what the order means for the sector.

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Abortion on the ballot: What the Ohio vote means

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Ohio voters will decide next week whether to amend the state constitution to protect abortion rights, overriding the current six-week ban. Host Kelly Hooper talks with POLITICO Morning Score author Madison Fernandez about what's at stake.

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Congress debates Biden’s nursing home staffing rules

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Congress took up new rules from the Biden administration that set minimum staffing requirements for nursing homes. At a House Energy and Commerce subcommittee hearing this week, members debated whether more staff would help care for patients or make it impossible for the businesses to stay afloat. Host Evan Peng talks about that and other workforce issues with POLITICO health care reporter Daniel Payne.

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Bernie Sanders' failed fight to lower drug prices in 2023

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Sen. Bernie Sanders sought Democratic support for more action on lowering drug prices this year before he advanced President Joe Biden's pick to lead the NIH. It didn't work. Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with POLITICO health care reporter Erin Schumaker about why Sanders' "no" vote on advancing Dr. Monica Bertagnolli's nomination failed.

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How CDC Director Mandy Cohen is kicking off a new era

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The CDC has a new leader who’s working to regain the public’s trust in the sometimes-beleaguered agency. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with POLITICO health care reporter Chelsea Cirruzzo, who caught up with CDC Director Mandy Cohen to discuss her national “trust” tour and her plans for the agency’s future.

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Why some states want more power over Medicare Advantage plans.

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Some state insurance commissioners want Congress to restore their authority to regulate Medicare Advantage marketing. Host Ben Leonard talks with POLITICO health care reporter Robert King about what they want and why.

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Congress not acting on the opioid epidemic

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The U.S. drug overdose crisis is out of control. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with Carmen Paun about why Washington’s efforts are failing.

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Why experts are criticizing FDA's approach to some neurological drugs

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Some experts fear the FDA's accelerated approval process for neurological disease treatments greenlights clinically promising but unproven drugs that can result in giving patients false hope. Host Kelly Hooper talks with POLITICO health care reporter Katherine Ellen Foley about how the FDA is balancing those concerns against the needs of patients.

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Why and how CMS is 'reining in' Medicare Advantage ads

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

For the first time, CMS is screening Medicare Advantage plan TV ads before they air, blocking hundreds of them over what the agency calls misleading information and unsubstantiated claims. Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with POLITICO health care reporter Robert King about the impact of CMS policing ads during Medicare’s annual open enrollment period.

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How Bidens’ insurer transparency rules hinder shopping around

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The Biden administration’s health care price transparency rules were meant to help employers get better deals from insurers. But, so far, the data’s quality has been so poor that they can’t use it. Host Lauren Gardner talks with POLITICO health care reporter Kelly Hooper about how the unclear data prevents employers from shopping around for insurers.

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House speaker chaos, or not …

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Health care policy is at the center of some congressional hearings this week. Host Megan R. Wilson talks with reporter Ben Leonard about how health care issues figure into upcoming action on Capitol Hill.

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Biden’s NIH pick finally gets her confirmation hearing

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

After months of delay, senators on the HELP Committee on Wednesday will vet President Joe Biden’s pick to lead the National Institutes of Health: Dr. Monica Bertagnolli. Host Daniel Payne talks with POLITICO health care reporter Erin Schumaker about the reasons for the delay and what to expect at the hearing.

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What's behind Rep. McCaul's anti-fentanyl push?

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Rep. Michael McCaul's (R-Texas) has seen the fentanyl crisis up close, whichdrives his push for bipartisan legislation against opioid trafficking. Host Daniel Payne talks with POLITICO global health reporter Carmen Paun about McCaul's attempts to build support.

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Impact of Ohio’s vote on abortion rights

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

In four weeks, voters in Ohio will decide whether to add abortion protections into the state constitution. Host Lauren Gardner talks with Alice Miranda Ollstein about why anti-abortion groups are pinning their hopes on the Buckeye State.

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Sorting fact from fiction about Europe’s view of gender-affirming care

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Many Republicans in the U.S. point to European policies when pushing to restrict gender-affirming care for minors, but the view on the other side of The Atlantic is more nuanced than portrayed. Host Kelly Hooper talks with Kaja Klapsa, a former POLITICO fellow and a reporter for the German newspaper Die WELT, who sorts out the details.

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Hospitals targeted in Congress’ search for cost savings

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Lawmakers have proposed legislation that could cost hospitals billions. Host Kelly Hooper talks with POLITICO reporter Megan R. Wilson about what’s in the bills and why hospitals, despite their clout on Capitol Hill, are facing a tough fight.

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The tuberculosis spike in NYC

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The number of cases in The Big Apple is on pace to hit the city's highest levels in more than a decade. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with POLITICO New York health care reporter Maya Kaufman about the rise in infections and the implications.

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Inside the Kaiser Permanente strike

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

A 3-day strike by nearly 75,000 nurses, pharmacists, physical therapists and other health care workers at Kaiser Permanente facilities in California, Colorado, Oregon, Virginia, and Washington state began Wednesday. Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with POLITICO’s labor reporter Nick Niedzwiadek about what the workers want and the strike's impact on the health care system.

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Medicare kicks off its drug price negotiations with patient input

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is about to embark on monumental drug price negotiations, and one of its first steps will be to host patient listening sessions. Host Lauren Gardner talks with POLITICO reporter Robert King about the sessions, designed to gather patient input on the first 10 drugs selected for price negotiation.

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What you need to know about the stopgap spending bill

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

A continuing resolution will keep the federal government open through Nov. 17. Host Kelly Hooper talks with POLITICO reporter Ben Leonard about what happens to health care agencies and programs.

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Why a government program meant to save Medicare money actually spent a lot more

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The Congressional Budget Office released a report showing that the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation, created under Obamacare to test new ways to pay for health care, will increase federal spending rather than reducing it. In 2010, CBO projected CMMI would reduce spending by $2.8 billion over 10 years, but current estimates show it increasing $1.3 billion from 2021 to 2030. Host Ben Leonard talks with Robert King about why.

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Cancer care at a crossroads

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with POLITICO health care reporter Daniel Payne about key takeaways from POLITICO’s “Mission Update: Inside the Cancer Moonshot” live event.

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Why hasn’t the Biden administration acted on a Trump-era health rule?

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The Biden administration has not reversed a Trump-era rule pushing a type of insurance plan that can save employers money but not necessarily employees. Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with POLITICO health care reporter Kelly Hooper about why.

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The American Medical Association’s growing rift with Republicans

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The American Medical Association’s shift on social issues has strained its ties to the GOP, risking influence on health care policy. Host Lauren Gardner talks with POLITICO health care reporter Daniel Payne about the growing divide between the influential doctors group and Republicans.

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Unpaid hospitals bills pile up as Medicaid drops coverage

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Hospitals are seeing a rise in uncompensated care as millions lose Medicaid coverage after redetermination resumed, according to new data. Host Kelly Hooper talks with POLITICO health care reporter Ben Leonard about what that could mean for hospitals.

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The seismic shift in primary care

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

A growing shortage of primary care physicians paired with an influx of nurse practitioners and physician assistants is rapidly changing who provides Americans health care. Host Kelly Hooper talks with POLITICO reporter Erin Schumaker about what’s driving this shift and what it means for patients.

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Trump’s abortion flip-flop roils GOP primary

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Former president Donald Trump’s zigzagging on abortion policy is causing turmoil within the anti-abortion movement and shaking up the dynamics of the GOP presidential primary. Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with POLITICO reporter Sally Goldenberg about the fallout.

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Key lawmaker, experts debate health care system payment fairness

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Host Katherine Ellen Foley and health care reporter Alice Miranda Ollstein discuss key takeaways from POLITICO’s “Transforming Health Care: Site-Neutral Payments & Billing Transparency” live event.

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Dr. YouTube

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

YouTube wants to become an authority on medical information. Host Lauren Gardner talks with POLITICO reporter Erin Schumaker about plans by the online video sharing and social media platform to do that.

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Rebuilding trust is hard. Just ask Mandy Cohen.

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The new CDC director is working to regain public confidence in the agency following the Covid-19 pandemic. Host Ben Leonard talks with POLITICO health care reporter Chelsea Cirruzzo about the agency's plans to improve communication and transparency.

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Biden goes after insurers on mental health parity

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The Biden administration has proposed new rules aimed at making health insurers comply with a 2008 law requiring them to offer mental health care on the same terms as physical health. Insurers say they’re trying, but workforce shortages stand in the way.

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George W. Bush’s personal push to save his PEPFAR legacy

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The former president is among a group of establishment Republicans working to convince anti-abortion groups and conservatives to support reauthorizing the global HIV/AIDS program. Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with POLITICO global health care reporter Carmen Paun about the last-ditch effort.

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Three Obamacare co-ops survived. Here’s how it happened.

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The Affordable Care Act created health insurance co-ops to spur competition. Most have been very public failures, but three managed to survive. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with POLITICO cannabis editor Paul Demko about the strategies employed by these surviving co-ops and how their example might help improve health care access.

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Impact of life-threatening heat

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Deadly heat is expanding across the hottest parts of the globe, and large swaths will face conditions that test the limits of human survival, according to a new study. Host Daniel Payne talks with E&E’s climate science reporter Chelsea Harvey about the study’s implications for policymakers and public health.

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Drug costs, price transparency in focus of new house health care bill

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

House Republican leaders have unveiled a new health care package focused on boosting transparency and addressing high drug costs. Host Kelly Hooper talks with POLITICO health care reporter Ben Leonard about what's in the package.

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As Medicaid cuts loom, states brace for junk plan schemes

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

As millions lose Medicaid coverage, states are taking steps to prevent consumers from purchasing junk health insurance plans that offer limited benefits. Robert King talks with POLITICO health care reporter Kelly Hooper about state efforts to curb misleading health insurance marketing as consumers seek new coverage.

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Confronting the reality of personal medical debt

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

With personal U.S. medical debt at alarming levels, state legislators in more than a dozen states have enacted consumer protections to address the issue. Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with POLITICO deputy health care editor Dan Goldberg about the growing crisis.

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PBM reform at a tipping point as Congress confronts drug pricing

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

As Congress considers bipartisan reforms to increase regulation of pharmacy benefit managers, advocates are pushing to maintain momentum. Katherine Ellen Foley talks with POLITICO reporter Megan R. Wilson about the debate over PBM reforms and the timeline for potential legislative action.

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Abortion disputes threaten renewal of HIV/AIDS program

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Congress could miss the September 30 deadline to reauthorize PEPFAR, a law governing U.S. global HIV/AIDS relief, because of abortion disputes, threatening the program’s future. Daniel Payne talks with POLITICO health care reporter Alice Miranda Ollstein about the potential cuts to the program if Congress can’t reach an agreement by the end of the year.

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Congress is back, and so is the threat of a government shutdown

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0000

There are 25 days before the end of the fiscal year, and a potential government shutdown looms due to a funding standoff between Congress and the White House. Host Kelly Hooper talks with POLITICO HHS reporter Chelsea Cirruzzo about what a shutdown would mean for health care agencies.

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Politico scoop: The White House to name drugs for Medicare negotiations next week

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The Biden administration on Tuesday is expected to unveil the first 10 drugs selected for Medicare price negotiations, setting up legal and political fights over health care costs. Carmen Paun talks with POLITICO White House Correspondent Adam Cancryn about the policy and political implications of this milestone.

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A high-deductible insurance debate in Congress: Who will benefit?

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000

A debate is heating up in Congress over proposed changes to high-deductible health insurance plans. Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with POLITICO health care reporter Ben Leonard about changes that could help or hurt lower-income families.

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Regulating drug marketing on social media: Can it be done?

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The FDA is working to update standards for prescription drug marketing on radio and TV. But some consumer advocates are calling for updated regulations when it comes to drugs promoted by influencers on social media, where the line between personal endorsement and sponsored content can be blurred. Host Chelsea Cirruzzo talks with POLITICO’s FDA reporter Lauren Gardner about social media’s changing nature and whether the agency can adequately monitor drug-marketing content on online platforms.

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Malaria cases baffle experts

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000

What makes the Florida and Texas infections so puzzling is that the patients contracted malaria here -- after 20 years of no locally transmitted cases. Host Ben Leonard talks with POLITICO fellow Mia McCarthy about the mysterious reemergence and the response from public health experts.

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A new tool in the tool box?

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The introduction of new weight loss drugs is unlikely to replace bariatric surgery, but they may increase patient awareness and demand for weight loss procedures overall. Host Kelly Hooper talks with health care reporter Daniel Payne about the potential impacts of new medications on the bariatric surgery industry.

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Facing the next pandemic

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000

John Bell, the former U.K. testing czar, argues governments should increase disease surveillance, develop routine adult vaccination programs, and build clinical trial networks in Africa to better prepare for the next pandemic. Host Megan Messerly talks with POLITICO global health reporter Carmen Paun about her Q&A with Bell.

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NYC school health clinics shutting down as care model evolves

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The NYC organization Health + Hospitals is shuttering eight school-based health centers by Aug. 31 due to low uptake. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with POLITICO health care reporter Maya Kaufman about the health care system’s shift away from the school clinic model to a broader community-based model.

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HHS seeks to toss drug pricing suit on IRA anniversary

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000

On the first anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act, the Biden administration is defending its authority to negotiate drug prices through Medicare as the Department of Health and Human Services filed a motion to dismiss a lawsuit by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce challenging HHS new price-setting powers under the IRA. Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with Lauren Gardner about the legal challenges facing the administration’s efforts to lower prescription drug costs.

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After Ohio vote, Dems eye Virginia

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Virginia Democrats are betting that defending abortion rights will lead to wins in the state’s fall elections. Host Ben Leonard talks with Madison Fernandez, author of POLITICO’s Weekly Score, about the momentum building among Democrats despite their 2021 losses on the issue there.

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Bipartisan support grows for psychedelic medicine, but hurdles remain

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Psychedelic drugs like psilocybin and MDMA are gaining bipartisan support in Washington as potential treatments for mental health issues like PTSD, anxiety, and depression. But concerns about side effects persist. Host Kelly Hooper talks with POLITICO health care reporter Katherine Ellen Foley about the promising yet delicate path forward for psychedelic therapies.

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The undoing of the biggest health care expansion since Obamacare

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000

States -- both blue and red -- are dropping millions of Medicaid enrollees for the first time in three years, after a pandemic policy meant to prevent vulnerable people from losing health coverage expired in May. Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with POLITICO’s White House correspondent Adam Cancryn about how this change comes at the worst time for President Joe Biden.

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Pregnancy accommodation rules spark abortion backlash

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission issued proposed rules for the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, requiring employer accommodations for pregnant workers. However, the EEOC’s inclusion of abortion has drawn pushback from Republicans. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with Olivia Olander about the broader landscape of protections for pregnant workers.

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Behind the drop in the reporting of medical device shortages

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The number of medical device shortages reported to the FDA plummeted after mandatory reporting requirements — tied to the Covid-19 public health emergency — expired in May. Host Megan Messerly talks with David Lim about the reporting nosedive.

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Old congressional friends now at odds over Covid

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Despite a decade of bipartisan collaboration and personal friendship, Reps. Brad Wenstrup (R-Ohio) and Raul Ruiz (D-Calif.) have found their relationship strained as chair and ranking member of the committee dedicated to investigating the government response to Covid-19. Host Ben Leonard talks with Alice Miranda Ollstein about their inability to find common ground on the pandemic response, raising concerns about further erosion of public trust in government.

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As Medicaid funds dry up, private insurer ups its political contributions

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Molina Healthcare, which manages Medicaid for states, gave $1 million to the Republican Governors Association in the first half of 2023, far exceeding past contributions. Host Evan Peng talks with Robert King about the backdrop for this spike: A reassessment of Medicaid rolls that threatens insurers’ bottom lines.

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Experts warn of potential fall covid surge as hospitalizations increase

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Covid-19 hospitalizations have risen for the first time since early 2023. But public health experts and the White House remain confident treatments and vaccines can manage a potential fall outbreak. Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with David Lim about the recent increase in cases and what it may signal.

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America’s maternity care deserts spread

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Maternal health care continues to disappear across many parts of the nation as more OBGYNs move or shutter their practices and more birthing hospitals shut down, negatively affecting millions of pregnant individuals, according to new data from the March of Dimes. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with Alice Miranda Ollstein about factors fueling obstetric unit closures — maternal care costs, traveling distance to deliver and state abortion bans.

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Congress faces a time crunch to pass critical health bills

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The House and Senate have only a few more working weeks left to pass key legislation before funding for crucial health programs runs out on September 30. Host Megan Messerly talks with Megan R. Wilson and David Lim about the status of major health policy bills and the challenges Congress faces in addressing them.

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Medicaid unwinding may hobble the nation's opioid response

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Millions of Americans risk losing Medicaid coverage as pandemic protections expire, sparking fear among public health experts of more opioid overdoses. Host Ben Leonard talks with Daniel Payne about the impacts of redetermination on the crisis.

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Pending nursing home rules upset both advocates and industry

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Industry leaders and patient advocates are preparing to oppose a forthcoming Biden administration regulation that would set minimum staffing requirements for nursing homes, with the former worried about costs and the latter concerned standards won’t be high enough. Host Kelly Hooper talks with Daniel Payne about the criticism of the pending nursing home rules.

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CDC finds more tuberculous cases linked to bone grafts

Fri, 28 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The CDC has identified three more tuberculosis infections linked to recalled bone graft materials from Aziyo Biologics, bringing the total cases to 5, with one death. At least 36 more patients are being preemptively treated. Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with Lauren Gardner about the latest contamination concerns.

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Mississippi’s cannabis conundrum: Too much weed, not enough need

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Mississippi’s new medical marijuana market is struggling to find its footing, with more than 280 licensed businesses but fewer than 20,000 enrolled patients. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with Paul Demko about how the market is trying to balance robust competition with attracting enough patients to sustain all the new businesses.

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Biden cracking down on insurers who skimp on mental health care coverage

Wed, 26 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The Biden administration has proposed a rule designed to force health insurers to comply with a 2008 mental health parity law. Host Megan Messerly talks with Ben Leonard about the White House’s push to equalize mental and physical health benefits and what it would mean for patient access and costs.

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GOP readies for spending fight for wins on abortion, trans care

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

House Republicans’ health care hopes are riding on the must-pass legislation. Host Ben Leonard talks to Alice Miranda Ollstein about how the culture wars are more prominently featuring into this year’s appropriations process.

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What’s next for rare disease treatments?

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Health care treatments such as gene therapy may hold the key to effectively treat rare genetic diseases and alleviate future chronic diseases. Host Kelly Hooper talks with Robert King about what we learned from POLITICO's Next Generation of Health Care Therapies event.

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Behind the evolving overdose crisis

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Overdose deaths involving both cocaine and opioids have spiked over the past decade, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with Kelly Hooper about the factors driving the deadly increase.

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Newt's new view of NIH

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Once one of the biggest champions of the National Institutes of Health, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich now backs funding cuts to the agency. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks to Erin Schumaker about what's behind Gingrich’s new take on the NIH and how a budget cut would impact the agency's work.

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Biden’s plan to expand HIPAA to protect abortion rights comes under bipartisan fire

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The Biden administration’s effort to use HIPAA privacy laws to protect abortion rights is facing dual criticism from Republicans, who say it overreaches, and Democrats, who say it doesn’t go far enough. Host Kelly Hooper talks with Alice Miranda Ollstein about President Joe Biden’s attempt to defend abortion access in the wake of the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade.

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CMS’ physician fee cut plan draws praise and criticism

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

CMS has proposed changes to Medicare’s physician fees. Host Evan Peng talks to Ben Leonard about a plan the agency says would advance lower costs, and support behavioral health.

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How one red state boosted its public health budget

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb convinced a bipartisan majority in his state’s legislature to boost public health funding this year by 1,500 percent, overcoming opposition from fellow Republicans angry about the government’s response to Covid-19. Host Kelly Hooper talks to Megan Messerly about Indiana’s conservative model for strengthening public health.

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FDA approves first over-the-counter birth control. What’s next?

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The FDA’s approval of Opill comes after the Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade decision and as several states adopt bans on abortion. Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks to Katherine Ellen Foley about the implications of the agency’s decision.

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Sen. Sanders' line in the sand

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The nomination of Monica Bertagnolli to lead the National Institutes of Health is now caught between President Joe Biden and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) over the administration's drug pricing agenda. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks to Adam Cancryn about Bertagnolli’s stalled candidacy.

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A White House plan to tackle ‘Tranq Dope’

Wed, 12 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The Biden administration has unveiled a plan to combat the growing threat of so-called Tranq Dope — a lethal combination of fentanyl and the horse tranquilizer xylazine — which has led to a surge in deaths in the U.S. Host Megan Messerly talks with Carmen Paun about the administration’s new strategy to curb overdose deaths.

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Major health care legislation looms

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

High policy aspirations, partisan gridlock and deadlines for must-pass health care legislation plague lawmakers as they return from the July recess — only 11 legislative days from the next congressional break. Host Ben Leonard talks with Megan R. Wilson about what lies on Capitol Hill.

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Biden proposes four-month cap on short-term health coverage

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

President Biden aims to limit short-term health coverage to a maximum of four months, reversing a previous regulation allowing for longer time periods implemented during the Trump administration. Host Kelly Hooper talks with Robert King about an array of recently proposed rules at HHS, DOL and the Treasury Department that the Biden administration believes will safeguard consumers and strengthen the Obamacare exchange by reining in what the president calls “junk insurance” plans.

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How the AMA chief plans to tackle pay and talk to Congress

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Jesse Ehrenfeld, the newly inaugurated president of the American Medical Association, is focusing on the political pressures doctors face as well as their pay. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with Daniel Payne about what’s on Ehrenfeld’s mind as he takes the helm of one of the most influential groups in Washington.

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CMS under fire from GOP for ignoring doctors’ advice on value-based care

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Congressional Republicans have recently criticized CMS, claiming the agency ignored input from an appointed board of doctors about how to transition Medicare payment policies using new payment models. The new models switch from a focus on the volume of physician services provided to patients to payment models in which the value of services dominates. Host Carmen Paun talks with Robert King about the board, known as PTAC, and GOP concerns about the way CMS is implementing the switch to value-based care payment models.

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The Medicare drug price negotiation plan is out

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has unveiled final guidance explaining how its negotiations with manufacturers over drug prices for Medicare patients will proceed. Congress last year authorized price bargaining on a limited number of medicines. Host Kelly Hooper talks with Robert King about how it will work.

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What’s next for the CDC post Walensky?

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Today marks CDC Director Rochelle Walensky’s last day at the agency. Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with Daniel Payne, who spoke to Walensky about what’s next for the future of the CDC and for her successor.

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The future of Alzheimer’s treatment drugs

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 13:26:09 -0000

As the Alzheimer’s drug landscape shifts, drugmakers are developing the next class of treatments. Host Kelly Hooper talks with Katherine Ellen Foley about the future of such therapies.

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Abortion disputes in Congress stalls AIDS relief program

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

An abortion dispute in Congress threatens to jeopardize the reauthorization of PEPFAR, the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, credited with saving 25 million lives from the disease in the developing world. Host Megan Messerly talks with Carmen Paun about the debate over whether federal funds should support HIV/AIDS organizations that support abortion rights.

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FDA’s first draft guidance for psychedelic research released

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The FDA released draft guidance for researchers designing clinical trials using psychedelic drugs. Host Ben Leonard talks with Erin Schumaker about the future of psychedelic drug research and development.

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Medicare payment reform flounders on Capitol Hill

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

House Republicans want to reform Medicare’s oft-criticized payment system in order to better compensate doctors and reduce their paperwork burdens, but Daniel Payne tells host Kelly Hooper that his reporting shows prospects for legislation this year are slim given competing legislative priorities and the complexity of the problem.

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What the abortion landscape looks like now, one year after Roe

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

It’s been a year since the landmark Supreme Court ruling overturning Roe v. Wade, with Republican and Democrat-controlled states taking opposing approaches to abortion rights. POLITICO’s Alice Miranda Ollstein and Megan Messerly go over the developments that defied predictions.

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Will Georgia’s Medicaid work requirements get the job done?

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Georgia is set to become the first state in five years to implement work requirements for Medicaid beneficiaries. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with Robert King about the waiver’s provisions and why some conservative states are looking to Georgia’s eligibility requirements as a possible model for their own Medicaid programs.

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A surprising new strategy to fight abortion bans: religious freedom

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Progressives are employing an unconventional legal tactic in their efforts to dismantle abortion bans. Host Megan Messerly talks with Alice Miranda Ollstein, who explains how groups are leveraging religious freedom to strike down abortion bans.

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Meet Mandy Cohen, Biden's pick to lead the CDC

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

President Biden’s choice to lead the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Mandy Cohen, built her political acumen in previous roles as a health official in North Carolina and in the Obama administration. But Erin Schumaker tells host Katherine Ellen Foley that the politicization of the CDC during the Covid-19 pandemic will be a challenge.

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Partisan rift threatens pandemic preparedness bill

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

A House hearing on the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Act underscores the partisan bickering behind reauthorizing must-pass legislation to improve how the U.S. responds to public health crises. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with Megan R. Wilson about congressional negotiations before a Sept. 30 deadline.

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Can Walensky’s new vision for the CDC weather congressional gridlock?

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Outgoing CDC Director Rochelle Walensky fielded questions from Congress on Tuesday about the agency’s lessons learned from the pandemic, while at the same time making a case for lawmakers to support a new vision for the agency. Host Kelly Hooper talks with Daniel Payne about what Walensky said the CDC needs to do to better serve the public.

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FDA considering a second Alzheimer's drug

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Outside advisers to the FDA recommended that the agency grant traditional approval to the Alzheimer’s drug Leqembi. Host Ben Leonard talks with Katherine Ellen Foley about what final approval could mean for patients.

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CMS doubles the number of drugs subject to inflation remedies

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The Biden administration identified 43 drugs subject to rebates from manufacturers to Medicare and lower coinsurance rates for beneficiaries starting July 1 -- more than double the current number. Host Kelly Hooper talks with Robert King about the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services' decision.

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The impact of the debt ceiling deal on vaccine funding

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with Carmen Paun about the skepticism that HHS Secretary Xavier Becerras expressed about future funding for Covid vaccines at this week’s POLITICO Health Care Summit.

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What we learned at the POLITICO health care summit

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

POLITICO hosted its annual health care summit Wednesday to explore the transformative impact of technology and innovation on health care. Host Katherine Ellen Foley spoke with attendees at the summit, including Ashish Jha, White House Covid-19 response coordinator, and reporter Carmen Paun provides her biggest takeaways.

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A preview of today’s POLITICO Health Care Summit

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

POLITICO is hosting its annual health care summit to explore the transformative impact of technology and innovation on health care and the challenges that lie ahead for the U.S. as the country grapples with improving access to quality care for all Americans. Host Megan Messerly chats with David Lim, who tells us what to expect.

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Medicare director charts path in drug price negotiations

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

CMS wants patients to pay a role in the first round of Medicare drug price negotiations set to begin this fall. Host Ben Leonard talks to Robert King about Medicare Director Meena Seshamani’s efforts to negotiate for lower prices on Medicare Part D.

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An unfounded claim about Ron DeSantis troubles people with autism

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

People with autism have come to the defense of GOP presidential candidate Ron DeSantis after Steve Bannon, the former adviser to President Donald Trump, claimed without evidence that DeSantis is autistic. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with Michael Schaffer about how Bannon’s baseless attack is reinforcing discriminatory attitudes about people with disabilities.

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The rally to keep Medicaid coverage amid program unwinding

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The push to maintain Medicaid enrollment has intensified beyond patient advocates and state workers, with hospitals and clinics striving to prevent individuals from being removed from the program. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with Daniel Payne about the efforts.

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Doctors and hospitals ready to take on new, riskier ways to save Medicare

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Doctors and hospitals are eager to collaborate with the Biden administration on finding new cost-saving measures for Medicare, but they are encountering challenges in engaging with federal regulators. Host Carmen Paun talks with Robert King about the limited options provided by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and why doctors find the programs difficult to navigate.

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Low-income workers scored in the Covid economy. But will their progress continue?

Wed, 31 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

A POLITICO analysis of data from the U.S. Labor Department shows that pandemic-era policies reversed the trend toward a widening income gap. But as the move away from those policies ends, that gain is threatened. So, what happens now? Host Ben Leonard talks with Victoria Guida about the labor economy and what the data shows about the health care sector.

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How a one-time Alabama abortion clinic is adjusting

Tue, 30 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Patients arriving for an appointment at the West Alabama Women’s Center one-year post-Roe find a clinic that has shifted its focus to non-abortion services. Host Daniel Payne talks with Alice Miranda Ollstein about the clinic’s struggle to serve patients in a state with a total abortion ban.

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Why some Democrats joined with the GOP to pass new fentanyl legislation in the House

Fri, 26 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

On Thursday, the House passed legislation to classify street versions of fentanyl as a Schedule 1 substance, despite some Democrats saying the bill is a distraction. Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with Carmen Paun about The HALT Fentanyl Act.

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U.S. HIV infections decline, but racial disparities persist

Thu, 25 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

New data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows a significant drop in new HIV infections across the U.S. — a 12 percent decrease between 2017 and 2021. Even though HIV infections have dropped, racial gaps remain in testing and treatment. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with Alice Miranda Ollstein about improving access to testing, treatment and preventive measures as progress remains fragile.

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Mayo Clinic vs. Minnesota in health spending fight

Wed, 24 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Mayo Clinic threatened to withdraw $4 billion in new hospital investments in Minnesota if the state’s recent proposed health affordability bill wasn’t killed. Host Ben Leonard talks with Megan Messerly about the challenges states face in reining in health spending against influential industry players.

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Medicare contractors will keep paying for remote health monitoring

Tue, 23 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Private insurers will continue coverage for remote patient monitoring devices through Medicare, signaling a significant win for the telehealth industry. Host Megan Messerly talks with Ben Leonard about the decision, which may reduce spending in the program.

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Debt limit breach could devastate health care

Mon, 22 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

If Congress and President Biden can’t reach a deal to cover U.S. debts, Medicare won’t be able to pay its bills, VA hospitals will miss their payrolls, and patients on Obamacare plans will lose their subsidies, among other effects. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with Kelly Hooper about her reporting on the consequences of a prolonged default.

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Senators investigate extent of Medicare coverage denials

Fri, 19 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The Senate panel initiated a bipartisan investigation, demanding records from the largest Medicare Advantage insurers: Humana, UnitedHealthcare, and CVS. Host Ben Leonard talks with Robert King about the frequency of care denials for beneficiaries and the utilization of artificial intelligence.

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Bernie's newest health care plan

Thu, 18 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Sen. Bernie Sanders is launching his latest push as one of the Senate’s most powerful committee chairs: to pour nearly $200 billion of new money into the health care system. The new package is Sanders’ response to monthslong discussions on the Senate HELP Committee about how to address growing health workforce shortages and financial woes of community health centers. Host Megan Messerly talks with Daniel Payne.

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The one abortion law Democrats aren’t rushing to repeal

Wed, 17 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Democrats are divided over whether minors should be able to have abortions without telling their parents. Some see repealing parental notification and consent laws as a political liability, particularly as conservatives push “parents’ rights” to win popular support in other areas. Host Carmen Paun talks with Megan Messerly about the division.

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Regulating AI in health care

Tue, 16 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The use of artificial intelligence is gaining popularity, and some experts believe that personalized medicine delivered by AI is the future of health care. POLITICO’s Ruth Reader talks with AI entrepreneur and NYU professor emeritus Gary Marcus, who will testify before the Senate Judiciary subcommittee on Privacy, Technology, and the Law today, as lawmakers consider regulating AI.

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Republicans object to Medicare cost-cutting experiment

Mon, 15 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with Robert King about some House Republicans’ opposition to a cost-cutting proposal from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation that would reduce payments for drugs that have won FDA approval but haven’t yet proven their clinical benefit. The GOP representatives argue it will curtail innovation and access to promising therapies.

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Blue states waver on undocumented Medicaid coverage expansions

Fri, 12 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Democratic lawmakers in some states are hesitant to expand health coverage to low-income undocumented immigrants because of budgetary concerns. It’s left some immigration advocates wondering how committed to the issue those Democrats really are. Host Ruth Reader talks with Megan Messerly about the intra-party debate.

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FDA advisors back first OTC birth control pill

Thu, 11 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Expert advisers to the FDA have recommended approving the first over-the-counter birth control pill, Opill. Host Ruth Reader talks with Katherine Ellen Foley about the decision.

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The end of an era: What to expect when the Covid PHE is over

Wed, 10 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The U.S.’ Covid-19 public health emergency ends Thursday along with pandemic-era rules and waivers. Host Megan Messerly talks with Daniel Payne about how the lifting of the PHE might affect the costs of Covid tests, vaccines and treatment; Title 42; Medicare; telehealth; and more.

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Overdose prevention centers: Effective abroad, but controversial in the U.S.

Tue, 09 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

A first-of-its-kind, federally funded study will evaluate the impact of overdose-prevention centers in New York City and Providence, R.I., over the next four years. Host Ben Leonard talks with Maya Kaufman about how this may influence public health policy.

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Boom and bust: The pandemic and community health workers

Mon, 08 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Thousands of community health workers face layoffs as federal funding tied to the Covid pandemic dries up. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with Daniel Payne about why many public health officials would like to keep this workforce to tackle other health challenges, like diabetes and obesity. They’re making the case to Congress that it would be foolish to let community health workers go after spending millions to train them.

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The next front in the abortion rights ballot fight: Florida

Fri, 05 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Planned Parenthood and partner organizations are launching an effort to put abortion on Florida’s ballot in 2024, setting the stage for a high-profile battle with Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis as he prepares to run for president. Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with Megan Messerly about what this could mean for the 6-week ban DeSantis recently signed into law and the political implications in the state.

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Former NIH Director’s $130 million plan for African genomics centers

Thu, 04 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

A talker at this week's Milken Institute Global Conference in LA was a pitch from former NIH director Francis Collins to fund eight to 10 genomics centers in Africa for $130 million a year. Carmen Paun talked with host Ruth Reader about the "business plan" put forth by Collins, a current White House adviser, on how the African genomics centers could help advance global pandemic preparedness, vaccine development and control of disease-transmitting vectors.

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Drug overdose deaths among Black Americans skyrocket

Wed, 03 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The CDC reports that more Black Americans died from fentanyl overdoses than from any other drug in 2021 and at far higher rates than white or Hispanic Americans. Host Megan Messerly talks with Krista Mahr about how the pandemic, health inequities, discriminatory health policies and other factors have contributed to the rise in overdose deaths in Black communities.

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Tracking health care legislation on the Hill right now

Tue, 02 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The next few weeks on Capitol Hill could prove pivotal for efforts in this Congress to lower health care costs, including increased access to cheaper generic drugs. Host Ben Leonard talks with Megan R. Wilson about the legislative proposals in the House and Senate that have bipartisan support.

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Senate bill has telehealth advocates feeling hopeful

Mon, 01 May 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) plans to propose Senate legislation soon to give Medicare patients permanent access to virtual care. Host Ruth Reader talks with Ben Leonard about what's in the Schatz bill, and what's not, as well as where things stand with a Drug Enforcement Administration regulation that could simultaneously curtail telemedicine access to some drugs.

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Senate HELP committee to mark up drug pricing bills next week

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The Senate HELP committee announced earlier this week that it will consider a set of bills next week aimed at enhancing access to generic drugs and medications for rare diseases. The package also includes a 91-page bill targeting pharmacy benefit managers and their business practices — likely to bring ire from the industry. Megan R. Wilson talks with host Katherine Ellen Foley about the bills under consideration.

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It’s hard for doctors to switch jobs. Hospitals like it that way.

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Hospitals want an exemption from a Federal Trade Commission proposal to ban noncompete agreements, saying it would wreak havoc on their finances and harm patients. Erin Schumaker talks with host Megan Messerly about the potential consequences for patients, doctorsand investors if a ban on noncompetes should take effect.

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The challenge to health care access for trans youth

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

As lawmakers push for banning gender-affirming care in their states, the effects are felt by doctors in states where the care is legal. As a result, physicians who provide such care to transgender adolescents say they have been threatened. Megan Messerly talks with host Ben Leonard about the far-reaching effects on doctors and minors nationwide.

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The solution to Medicare’s financial problems may start at home

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

A bipartisan group of representatives has introduced legislation to move more care from the hospital to the home. They say it’s a win-win that will both give patients what they want and shore up Medicare’s teetering finances. Host Katherine Ellen Foley talks with Ben Leonard about what’s in the bill.

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Congress asks how its health data was compromised

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The breach of DC Health Link, uncovered last month, involved the theft of more than 50,000 customers, including at least 17 House members and almost 600 House staffers, according to a top executive from the company in charge of the DC Health Link insurance market. Maggie Miller talks with host Alice Miranda Ollstein about the breach.

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If you get a Covid-19 shot, it will be a bivalent booster, FDA decides

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The FDA has simplified the Covid vaccination regimen by updating the emergency use authorizations of Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna bivalent mRNA boosters. Katherine Ellen Foley talks to host Ruth Reader about what this means for those who have never been vaccinated and for immunocompromised individuals and those over age 65.

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How Washington state aims to protect consumers’ health data

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Washington has become the first state to create data privacy protections specifically related to health information, following the Supreme Court overturning of Roe v. Wade in June. Alfred Ng talks with host Megan Messerly about the impact this might have on companies sharing or collecting consumer health data and the possible far-reaching influence it could have on other states.

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Sen. John Fetterman’s return to Capitol Hill driving a conversation about mental health

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Sen. John Fetterman returned to Congress this week, and Myah Ward talks to host Ben Leonard about the lawmaker’s experience with depression shows that Washington is more openly talking about mental health, and making the issue a policy priority.

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How the FTC and HHS plan to protect your health data

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

When people check out mental health apps, telehealth services or even hospital websites, they may not know they are capturing detailed personal information used for marketing and advertising. Ruth Reader talks to host Katherine Ellen Foley about what the FTC and HHS are doing to crack down on the practice.

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Future uncertain at generic drug lobby

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Simmering tensions at one of the nation’s leading trade organizations for generic drugmakers could threaten its lobbying clout at a crucial time for the industry. Megan R. Wilson talks with host Ruth Reader about the Association for Accessible Medicines, which has lost some members, contributing to budget cuts and layoffs of some top staffers.

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Horse sedative an 'emerging threat' to public health

Thu, 13 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The White House has designated a horse tranquilizer as an "emerging threat" to public health because when mixed with fentanyl it could be fatal. The number of overdose deaths where xylazine was detected increased by more than 1,000 percent between 2020 and 2021 in the South. Carmen Paun talks to host Ruth Reader about the steps being taken by the Office of National Drug Control Policy.

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How the pandemic is (still) changing traditional doctors' roles

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Lawmakers have introduced several bills this year that could ease the clinician shortage by expanding the roles of health care workers, allowing them to care for more patients than they currently do. But doctors say the proposed changes would put patient safety at risk. Daniel Payne talks with host Megan Messerly about what this means for the future of medical practices around the U.S.

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Unpacking dueling rulings on abortion pills

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The Biden administration has asked a judge to clarify how it should proceed following differing federal court decisions on the abortion pill mifepristone. The legal turmoil may eventually land before the Supreme Court. Alice Miranda Ollstein unpacks the legal tangle with host Ben Leonard.

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Teens are worried about TikTok, too

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

According to a new survey from Common Sense Media, which offers age-based reviews of movies, TV shows, books, games and online content, teenage girls think their social media use is out of control. Ruth Reader talks with host Katherine Ellen Foley about how the poll results show teen views on social media align in many ways with those of lawmakers in Congress and the states.

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The impact of Covid on kids’ mental health may be worse yet

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The pandemic has negatively impacted kids’ mental health. Daniel Payne talks with host Ben Leonard about the concerns of doctors and the legislation being proposed to help combat Covid’s effect. Plus, Katherine Ellen Foley provides a dispatch from this week’s World Vaccine Congress in Washington, D.C.

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As federal contracts end for Covid-19 vaccines: What comes next?

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Federal contracts for Covid-19 vaccines are set to end this year. Katherine Ellen Foley talks with host Ruth Reader about her time at the World Vaccine Congress this week and the transition that drugmakers will need to make to sell their Covid vaccines in the commercial market. She also learned a lot about the world of next-gen vaccines.

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Ringing the long Covid alarm

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The country is winding down the Covid-19 public health emergency. Meanwhile, doctors studying the effects of long Covid for the National Institutes of Health say the federal government needs to do more than they’re doing now for long Covid patients. Krista Mahr talks with host Ben Leonard about what researchers say should be done to address the issue.

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The FTC mandates Illumina dissolve its relationship with Grail

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

On Monday, the FTC told Illumina to dissolve their acquisition with the multi-cancer early detection test company Grail. David Lim talks with host Ben Leonard about what this move means for the development and commercialization of cancer tests in the United States.

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Restore Roe or go further? Abortion-rights activists clash over ballot initiatives

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0000

A string of victories in red and purple states in the 2022 midterms convinced abortion-rights supporters that ballot initiatives are among their most powerful tools. But internal divisions are splitting the abortion-rights movement over what limits, if any, to keep on abortion as efforts kick off in Missouri, Ohio, and South Dakota to put the issue to a popular vote this year and next. Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with Katherine Ellen Foley about what she's watching out for.

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Republicans’ ‘new pro-life agenda’

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Republicans in staunchly conservative states are championing some atypical legislation this session — promoting sex education, government welfare and more birth control. Megan Messerly talks with Alice Miranda Ollstein about the proposals that some governors and lawmakers have referred to as a “new pro-life agenda” for the post-Roe era.

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FDA approves first OTC opioid overdose reversal drug

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The nation's drug regulator approved the first over-the-counter opioid overdose reversal nasal spray on Wednesday. Katherine Ellen Foley talks with host Ruth Reader about the significance of Narcan being available without a prescription and the hopes for how it might positively impact the opioid overdose epidemic in the U.S.

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The Biden administration’s ongoing fight over abortion pill access

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The Biden administration has been clashing with Republicans over their attempt to ban abortion pills nationwide. But yesterday, it was Democratic attorneys general who faced off with the administration in court over the FDA’s authority to place certain restrictions on abortion pills. Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with host Megan Messerly about the effect it could have on pharmacies dispensing the pills.

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The latest on cannabis research from the office trying to study it

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0000

National institute on Drug Abuse Deputy Director Dr. Wilson Compton sat down with POLITICO’s Natalie Fertig recently to chat about the known health effects of cannabis, and the limitations on cannabis research. Natalie talks with host Megan Messerly about why Compton argued that he and other researchers need access to cannabis products being sold in state-legal dispensaries.

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An AI decision maker in your emergency room?

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The Department of Defense is funding a $3 million project to find the best human decision-making attributes artificial intelligence can imitate. Erin Schumaker talks with host Carmen Paun about the value of training AI to make the most difficult medical decisions people face.

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Lawmakers say TikTok is killing kids

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0000

President Joe Biden wants to ban TikTok, or force its sale, for fear that the Chinese government is using it to collect data about Americans. While members of the House Energy and Commerce were interested in national security threats, they expressed equal concern about what they see as the site’s corrupting influence on young people. Ruth Reader talks with host Katherine Ellen Foley about TikTok CEO Shou Chew's grilling on Capitol Hill.

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New report says CDC overstated vax data

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Flaws in CDC data led it to overstate how many people received Covid shots, according to a new report by the Covid States Project, a collaboration of researchers from Northeastern, Harvard, Rutgers and Northwestern universities. Krista Mahr talks with host Ruth Reader about the data.

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The Sanders v. Moderna hearing

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Sen. Bernie Sanders’ decadeslong campaign against what he calls the “greed” of the pharmaceutical industry will take center stage today when Moderna CEO Stéphane Bancel defends his company’s plan to sharply raise the price of its Covid-19 vaccine when broad government purchases stop. David Lim talks with host Megan Messerly about what to expect during the hearing.

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California and drugmaker partner to make affordable insulin

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0000

After years of anticipation, California Gov. Gavin Newsom said the state would contract with Civica, a Utah-based generic pharmaceutical company, to start producing California-branded insulin, available for $30 for a 10 mL vial. Once the Food and Drug Administration approves the new insulin, Civica can begin manufacturing. Reporter Rachel Bluth talks with host Ben Leonard about about the deal.

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What GOP lawmakers are doing to keep abortion off the ballot

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0000

GOP lawmakers are making a play to head off abortion ballot measures. While the bills vary in wording, they would have the same impact: making it harder for voters to undo the abortion restrictions that lawmakers were finally allowed to put in place after 50 years under Roe v. Wade. Megan Messerly talks with host Katherine Ellen Foley about the states she's tracking.

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Tester wants to fix VA health records

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Sen. Jon Tester (D-Mont.), chair of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, said Wednesday that the VA should renegotiate its contract with Oracle Cerner, the vendor managing a mistake-ridden electronic health records system at VA medical centers. Ben Leonard talks with host Alice Miranda Ollstein about fixing the VA's electronic health records.

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New CDC report shows sharp rise in U.S. maternal deaths

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The number of maternal deaths shot up nearly 40 percent in the U.S. in 2021, according to CDC data released Thursday, cementing America’s status as one of the most dangerous wealthy nations to be pregnant and give birth. Krista Mahr talks with host Ben Leonard about the stark rise.

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Why the VA’s health arm will cover a new Alzheimer’s drug ... and Medicare won’t

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The Veterans Health Administration announced earlier this week that it will cover Leqembi, a new Alzheimer’s drug that appears to slow the disease’s progression. Host Megan Messerly talks with Katherine Ellen Foley about why the VHA’s decision differs from other federal agencies.

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How SVB's failure affects health tech

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0000

Silicon Valley Bank had many health care and biotech startups among its client base. Now, the bank’s failure last Friday is raising questions about how much this could hurt emerging health companies. Host Ruth Reader talks with Michael Yang, a managing partner with OMERS Ventures, a global early-stage technology venture firm, to get the industry’s read.

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Daylight saving drama

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 09:00:00 -0000

The Senate passed Marco Rubio’s bill making daylight saving time permanent unanimously last year, but it's since stalled in the House. Erin Schumaker talks with Katherine Ellen Foley about past efforts to make daylight saving time permanent and why many scientists oppose it.

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A drug cost stat falls out of favor

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Quality-adjusted life years — or QALYs — is a tool designed to help measure the cost effectiveness of drugs and other medical treatments. But detractors say the statistic discriminates against people with disabilities by undervaluing how much treatments help them. Ben Leonard talks with host Carmen Paun about the debate over the use of the statistic.

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Inside the President's budget

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 10:00:00 -0000

President Joe Biden is not expected to seek significant new Covid funding as part of his forthcoming budget proposal, the latest sign that the White House is preparing to wind down its emergency response operation later this year. Adam Cancryn talks with host Ruth Reader about the most notable health care priorities in the budget.

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Next-gen Covid vaccine hopefuls part ways with K Street

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 10:00:00 -0000

During the first year and a half of the pandemic, a handful of small companies developing next-generation Covid-19 vaccines hired lobbyists in hopes of winning contracts to fund research, manufacturing and testing. Megan R. Wilson talks with host Ben Leonard about why, nearly three years in, many have abandoned their Washington, D.C., footprint.

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Here's what drove Walgreens' abortion pill decision

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 10:00:00 -0000

The nation’s second-largest pharmacy chain confirmed last week that it will not sell an abortion pill in 20 states after threats of legal action — including several states where they remain legal. Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with host Megan Messerly about what influenced Walgreens' decision.

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The roadblock facing an opioid addiction treatment

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 11:00:00 -0000

The Biden administration is implementing a new law that makes it easier for doctors to prescribe a lifesaving drug — buprenorphine — to treat opioid use disorder, but one of its agencies, the Drug Enforcement Administration, subjects the drug to such strict regulation that many are reluctant to dispense it. Krista Mahr talks with host Katherine Ellen Foley about the paradox and what’s ahead.

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Inside the FTC's deal with BetterHelp

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 10:00:00 -0000

The Federal Trade Commission reached a settlement with online therapy company BetterHelp over allegations it shared customers’ sensitive health data with third parties. Ruth Reader talks to host Krista Mahr about what we know about the deal and why it's another health data warning shot from the FTC.

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GOP divided on how to respond to ‘lab leak’ reports

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Congressional Republicans are anxious to use new Covid-19 lab leak reports to lash out at the ruling Chinese Communist Party and paint President Joe Biden’s administration as soft on Beijing. But they have reached little consensus on how exactly to do that. Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with host Ruth Reader about the spectrum of responses we've seen and what's next.

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DeSantis and the 'medical freedom' movement

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 10:00:00 -0000

The “medical freedom” movement, mostly known for its opposition to vaccine requirements, was long consigned to the fringes of libertarian and left-wing politics. Then came Ron DeSantis. Krista Mahr and host Megan Messerly talk about how the Florida governor is influencing GOP lawmakers across the country.

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Why one state’s plan to unwind a Medicaid rule is raising red flags

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

President Joe Biden is giving states a year to check whether millions of low-income Americans are still eligible to receive health insurance through their government’s Medicaid program. Arkansas plans to do it in half that time. Megan Messerly talks with host Alice Miranda Ollstein about what could be in store for Medicaid in Arkansas and other states.

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Where a good night’s sleep is hard to get

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

You’ve likely heard the term social determinants of health used to describe how nonmedical factors like education, socioeconomic status or zip code can improve or worsen health. Erin Schumaker talks with host Katherine Ellen Foley about research presented at a recent panel at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health on the science of sleep, and how the social determinants of sleep cut along racial and socioeconomic lines.

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The surgeon general wants to talk to you about mental health

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

In his second go as Surgeon General of the United States, Vivek Murthy is focused on the nation’s mental health and in particular how to help kids with this struggle. Ruth Reader talks to Murthy about his office’s guidelines for how to support youth mental health and testified before Congress on the matter.

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PBM reform effort intensifies on Capitol Hill

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

The drumbeat of calls to enact reforms to pharmaceutical middlemen is growing louder after years of largely unsuccessful attempts by lawmakers to make sweeping changes to how the industry operates — and reform advocates hope that conditions are ripe this year for action. Megan R. Wilson talks with host Ruth Reader about the bills that have been introduced and how PBMs are fighting back.

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CDC heads to Ohio

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

CDC epidemiologists and environmental health scientists are in Ohio this week, helping assess the potential health risks to residents after a 150-car train carrying dangerous chemicals derailed in the small town of East Palestine earlier this month. Krista Mahr discusses her reporting about the CDC’s response with host Megan Messerly.

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The nursing home booster problem

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

America’s nursing homes have been at the epicenter of the Covid pandemic since its earliest days. Today, nursing home residents remain the most vulnerable group in the country when it comes to Covid, with hundreds of people still dying each week. Krista Mahr talks with host Katherine Ellen Foley about why ensuring residents and staff have the best protection out there from the unpredictable virus hasn’t been easy.

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FDA advisers recommend over-the-counter naloxone

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

On Wednesday, expert advisers to the FDA voted 19 to 0 that the agency should approve a non-prescription version of naloxone, an opioid overdose antidote, meaning it eventually could be sold in gas stations, grocery stores and convenience shops. Katherine Ellen Foley talks with host Carmen Paun about its potential impact.

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What's new in psychedelics research

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Erin Schumaker talks with host Ruth Reader about the prospect of developing next-generation non-hallucinogenic versions of drugs such as psilocybin to treat brain disorders like depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and addiction, and the regulatory barriers that researchers who want to study psychedelics are up against.

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Making public the private equities associated with nursing homes

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

The Biden administration is proposing new rules that would require more transparency about the owners, managers and contractors at nursing homes, in part to better understand private equity's impact on the industry. Daniel Payne talks with host Ruth Reader about the proposal, which could take effect this summer.

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A step toward better data sharing

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

On Monday, the Department of Health and Human Services celebrated another step in helping patients get easier access to their own health data. Ruth Reader talks with host Ben Leonard about the new pilot program.

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Contrarian scientists question Biden’s cancer moonshot

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Congress has appropriated $1.8 billion for the “cancer moonshot” Biden began in 2016, and positive reaction to Biden’s recent request for more suggests it’s eager to maintain the momentum. But cancer researchers are less unified about the moonshot than Washington policymakers. Erin Schumaker talks with host Katherine Ellen Foley about Biden's cancer moonshot.

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Could these new legal theories reverse abortion bans?

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Host Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with Josh Gerstein about a federal judge’s recent suggestion that a constitutional right to abortion could be conferred by the 13th Amendment.

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Court could ban abortion pills nationwide

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Doctors and advocates are urging people to pre-order and stockpile abortion pills while they still can in the face of a looming court decision that could wipe out access to the drugs nationwide. Host Ruth Reader talks with Alice Miranda Ollstein about the case.

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Teen drug deaths lead California schools to stock overdose reversal drug

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Amid an influx of fentanyl into the state and a rise in teen overdose deaths, state lawmakers may soon require schools to keep Narcan on hand. Host Ben Leonard talks with Blake Jones about the new push in California.

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Former FDA chief David Kessler reflects on Covid

Tue, 07 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Adam Cancryn tells Ben Leonard about his exit interview with David Kessler, who reflected on nearly three years of fighting a pandemic as President Joe Biden’s chief science officer — and the political fallout. Plus, Rep. David Schweikert (R-Ariz.), co-chair of the Telehealth Caucus, on how technology can become a bigger part of health care delivery.

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More regulation could be coming for cannabis

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

With public opinion turning pro-legalization, 21 states now permit cannabis use for medical reasons or for recreation. Another 16 allow medical marijuana. But policymakers overseeing legalization were flying surprisingly blind about its effect on public health. Ben Leonard talks with Megan Wilson about the recent data on health impacts and the reaction from lawmakers on Capitol Hill.

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FTC cracks down on GoodRx

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

In a first-of-its-kind enforcement action, the Federal Trade Commission on Wednesday said it reached agreement with GoodRx on a fine and remedies after the prescription discount site shared customers’ health data with Google, Facebook and other third parties. Ruth Reader talks with Megan Messerly about why, if the court agrees, the decision could upend the business models of online businesses that routinely use or sell data to better target users with services and advertising.

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Deciding the fate of millions on Medicaid

Thu, 02 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

As of Wednesday, states can start reevaluating whether the millions of Americans who have remained covered by Medicaid during the pandemic are still eligible for those health insurance benefits. Megan Messerly talks with Erin Schumaker about how we got here and the approaches some states may take.

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The end of the Covid emergency is near, and Pfizer reveals its post-PHE plans

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0000

The Biden administration will end the Covid-19 national and public health emergencies on May 11. Daniel Payne talks with Ruth Reader about this major step, meant to signal that the crisis era of the pandemic is over. Plus, Katherine Ellen Foley on the four biggest takeaways from Pfizer’s earnings call.

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Lobbyists quake as Sanders takes Senate panel's helm

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Megan Wilson talks with Katherine Ellen Foley about the rumors spooking health care lobbyists on K St. about incoming Senate HELP Committee Chair Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.).

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The start of the FDA's pivot in immunization strategy

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Katherine Ellen Foley talks with Ben Leonard about what we know and what we don't about the FDA’s recent decision making on the future of Covid-19 vaccines.

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Inside Amazon's new prescription subscription

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Amazon is launching a prescription subscription service called RxPass - which for $5 per month, allows existing Prime members to get eligible generic prescription medications. Ruth Reader talks with Alice Miranda Ollstein about the service, which competes with discount drug companies like Mark Cuban’s Cost Plus Drug Company and GoodRx, as well as online prescription delivery services from bigger pharmacy brands like CVS.

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Lawsuit asks whether social media companies are responsible for mental health issue

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

A federal court in California could decide whether social media firms need to pay for the damage they’ve allegedly done to Americans’ mental health. Ruth Reader talks with Carmen Paun about the consolidated complaint, which will test a novel legal theory on product liability. Plus, Krista Mahr breaks down what we know about the newly named members of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic.

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In conservative states, anti-abortion groups butt heads with ... Republicans

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Anti-abortion groups are pushing back against Republican lawmakers in some conservative states. Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with Lauren Gardner about some groups’ fear that GOP-controlled legislatures will water down their near-total abortion bans and stir up politically contentious debates over already-vetted laws.

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What Zients' stint as Covid czar tells us about what kind of chief of staff he'll be

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Jeff Zients is on his way back to the White House as President Joe Biden’s new chief of staff, where the managerial prowess he showed as Covid czar will be put to the test. Adam Cancryn talks with Ruth Reader about his track record.

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This is what’s keeping pharmacy shelves bare

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

More-than-typical shortages of common over-the-counter and prescription drugs have caused headaches for sick Americans and those managing chronic diseases. Erin Schumaker talks with Alice Miranda Ollstein about the demand shortages and supply disruptions. Plus, Alice's dispatch from the first March For Life rally on the National Mall since the fall of Roe.

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GAO questions HHS oversight of ‘gain-of-function’ research

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

The watchdog arm of Congress called on the Department of Health and Human Services to better oversee its funding of research into “enhanced potential pandemic pathogens.” Ben Leonard talks with Ruth Reader about why this adds fuel to a contentious debate in Washington over so-called gain-of-function research.

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Democratic Sen. Warner pushes for health cybersecurity legislation

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.) is aiming to introduce health care cybersecurity legislation during the first quarter of 2023 that could set minimum standards for health care organizations to protect patient data from hacking threats. Ben Leonard talks with Lauren Gardner about his conversation with Sen. Warner with thoughts from some of biggest advocacy groups in the space, CHIME and AHA.

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The Biden admin's big plans for airplane toilets

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

The Biden administration plans to widen the testing of bathroom waste for Covid variants and other pathogens when international flights arrive. Krista Mahr talks with Megan Messerly about collecting wastewater samples from long-haul flights, which administration officials and public health experts see as part of a revolution in biosafety infrastructure, and a critical plank of national security in the post-pandemic era.

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Inside the crisis in the U.K.'s National Health Service

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Soaring Covid and seasonal infections like flu and RSV have compounded long-term problems at the NHS. Long wait times for treatment and a chronically understaffed and burned out workforce have raised a contentious debate about whether the U.K. should move away from its single-payer system. Helen Collis talks with Lauren Gardner about what the changes could look like.

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The end of the covid public health emergency could limit virtual prescribing

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

The Covid public health emergency, which looks likely to end as soon as April, could curtail access to drugs used to treat substance use disorders and mental illnesses. Ben Leonard talks with Ruth Reader about what's holding the DEA back from setting up a special registration process.

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What Maine’s prisons taught Washington about fighting opioids

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Federal officials are paying attention to promising programs emerging on the frontlines of the opioid epidemic — in prisons and jails. Krista Mahr talks with Ben Leonard about her report out of the Maine State Prison.

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Biden navigates the end of the Covid public health emergency

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with Adam Cancryn about his report that senior Biden officials are targeting an end to the Covid-19 emergency designation, which would trigger a complex restructuring of major elements of the federal response.

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The fight over how to deliver bad news to patients

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Ben Leonard talks with Lauren Gardner about the debate over HHS's directive requiring doctors to send patients test results before they have a chance to explain them.

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FDA approves second Alzheimer’s treatment

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

On Friday, the FDA granted accelerated approval to Leqembi, previously known as lecanemab, made by Eisai and Biogen. The drug is the second that targets amyloid proteins in the brain, which are thought to cause progressive dementia. Katherine Ellen Foley talks with Megan Messerly about the future of the drug.

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The state of mental health and substance use in the U.S.

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

According to the latest data from the HHS’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration annual survey, one in three Americans had a substance abuse disorder or mental illness in 2021. Lauren Gardner talks with Daniel Payne. Plus, Ben Leonard talks with Amy Abernethy, the former No. 2 at the Food and Drug Administration and now president of Verily’s clinical research business, about barriers to improving trials, the new Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health and more.

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The latest on XBB.1.5

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

The coronavirus Omicron strain XBB.1.5, which has become the dominant strain in the U.S. in just a matter of weeks, could drive a new wave of cases, a World Health Organization official told reporters Wednesday. Lauren Gardner talks with Carmen Paun about what the WHO knows and what it doesn't — yet.

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Anti-abortion groups give House GOP a list of their demands

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Katherine Ellen Foley talks with Alice Miranda Ollstein about the influx of new demands that anti-abortion groups have presented to the 118th Congress.

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What's next on the AI front in health care

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Katherine Ellen Foley talks with Ruth Reader about the state of artificial intelligence in health care and why it hasn’t reached its promise yet.

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What we learned from the mpox outbreak

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Carmen Paun talks with Daniel Payne about the trajectory of the mpox outbreak in 2022 and what lessons we can learn from it.

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2023 state abortion battles: What to expect

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 10:00:00 -0000

In June, the Supreme Court overturned the landmark Roe v. Wade decision — throwing the future of abortion access in the U.S. into flux. Since then, roughly a quarter of states have made accessing the procedure illegal in most circumstances, while others have bolstered protections for doctors and patients. At the federal level, members of Congress and the Biden administration have been grappling with how to respond. Megan Messerly talks with Alice Miranda Ollstein about the state abortion fights they followed in 2022 and what they’re looking at next year.

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Can Mark Cuban disrupt prescription drugs?

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Mark Cuban is famous for his "Shark Tank" reality TV show on ABC and is one of America's most prominent investors. But he's also trying to disrupt the prescription drug space. Earlier this year, he made a foray into health care, launching the Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company to take on the pharmaceutical market and lower drug prices. Ben Leonard talked with him about the Cost Plus Drug company he founded with Dr. Alex Oshmyansky and how he plans to pull it off.

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When Bernie Sanders gets the HELP committee gavel

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) takes the reins of the Senate HELP Committee next month. Lauren Gardner talks with Megan Wilson about why lobbyists are bracing for what comes next.

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The FDA's struggles on flavored e-cigs

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 10:00:00 -0000

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Running the NDAA's numbers on global health funding

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 10:00:00 -0000

The House voted on the National Defense Authorization Act last week – the Senate hasn’t yet, but it’s one step closer to passage. Grace Scullion talks with Carmen Paun about the NDAA's planned $5 billion over five years for global health security.

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New data sheds more light on long Covid

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 10:00:00 -0000

At least 3,500 Americans have died due, at least in part, to long Covid, according to new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Ben Leonard talks with Krista Mahr about the analysis from the CDC’s Center for National Health Statistics.

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States face brutal virus fallout

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Katherine Ellen Foley talks with Megan Messerly about the situation inside hospitals as Covid, RSV and flu cases rise. Nearly 30,000 people currently U.S. hospitals have tested positive for Covid-19, according to the CDC, up 30 percent since Thanksgiving — with New York, Arizona and New Mexico among the hardest hit.

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Competition is coming for a top drug

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Today in our Pulse Check podcast, Lauren Gardner talks with Megan Messerly about the introduction of biosimilars next year to compete with Humira, the anti-inflammatory used to treat arthritis that has been the best-selling drug in America. Competition could reduce prices for consumers, but that’s not certain. Lauren explains how it could play out.

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Who's the next Fred Upton?

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 10:00:35 -0000

Retiring Republican Rep. Fred Upton has been a big advocate for major health care policies in his tenure. He joined Ruth Reader to discuss what he accomplished while in office and his hopes for Cures 2.0 and the PASTEUR act. Later, John Halamka talks about the future of AI in health care.

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Developing the RSV vaccine

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 10:00:00 -0000

At the second day of the Milken Future of Health conference, Grace Scullion talks with Dr. Ofer Levy, a pediatrician specializing in infectious diseases at Boston Children's Hospital and a voting member of the FDA COVID vaccine advisory panel. Plus, Sen. Tim Kaine on why he's optimistic there will be funding for long covid in an end-of-year omnibus.

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Unlocking health data

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 10:00:00 -0000

At the first day of the Milken Future of Healthcare conference, Ben Leonard talks with Steve Posnack, the Deputy National Coordinator for Health Information Technology at HHS, about what he thinks the biggest barriers are to people getting access to their health data. Plus, over on Capitol Hill, lobbying reporter Megan Wilson attended a Q&A with Jack Resneck, the president of the American Medical Association, who is in town to push lawmakers to avert nearly 8.5 percent in Medicare payment cuts that doctors face in January unless Congress acts.

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Ex-FDA vaccine inspectors call for better training

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Ben Leonard talks with Erin Banco about her investigation into why the FDA team overseeing licensed vaccines is overwhelmed by high turnover and a backlog of inspections. Also, Shawn Zeller provides a preview of the Milken Institute’s Future of Health Summit, which starts today.

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Elon Musk wants to put a chip in your brain

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Elon Musk’s health tech company Neuralink shared updates to its brain-implant technology on Wednesday. Ben Leonard talks with Ruth Reader about the technology, which has big implications for people who suffer with mobility issues such as those with spinal cord injuries or Lou Gehrig’s disease.

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The states making another run at expanding Medicaid in 2023

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Democratic governors in North Carolina and Kansas are set to take another run at expanding Medicaid next year. Megan Messerly talks with Megan Wilson about how increased federal incentives and Medicaid expansion advocates have gradually worn down traditional GOP opposition.

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Covid forced rural health care to go virtual. Providers don’t want to go back.

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Daniel Payne talks with Lauren Gardner about the lobbying from health care providers trying to convince lawmakers to extend the telehealth rules that were passed during the pandemic — and that would expire after the lifting of the Covid-19 public health emergency.

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These 'Abortion Pirates' want equal access to abortion pills worldwide

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Doctors, researchers and women’s activists convened in Riga, Latvia, to explore ways to use pills to circumvent anti-abortion laws. Emily Schultheis talks with Ruth Reader about this network of activists that is becoming increasingly international.

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The challenges of long Covid and federal disability policies

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Last year, the Department of Health and Human Services declared that long Covid can be classified as a disability under federal law, opening up protections and accommodations that extend into the workplace. POLITICO labor reporter Nick Niedzwiadek joins Katherine Ellen Foley to discuss how gaps between what the law requires of employers and the on-the-ground reality factor into how people with long Covid can receive disability assistance if merited and be productive employees if possible.

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Using environmental laws to curb abortions

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Host Carmen Paun talks with Alice Miranda Ollstein about her exclusive report on a new strategy being used by abortion opponents.

The approach comes as the pills mifepristone and misoprostol, taken at home during the first 10 weeks of pregnancy, have become the most common method of abortion in the U.S. and virtually the only option for millions of people in states with laws that have forced clinics to close since Roe v. Wade was overturned.

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Long Covid’s funding shortfall

Tue, 22 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Ruth Reader and Katherine Ellen Foley discuss the impact on long Covid treatments if the new congress doesn’t approve additional funding for Covid-19 research.

The Biden administration has asked Congress for more than $9 billion in additional funding for Covid-19 that would go toward next-generation vaccine development and long Covid research, a poorly understood, chronic condition affecting millions of Americans. But the incoming divided Congress is unlikely to back federal requests funding research into viable treatments for long Covid and big pharma has yet to launch major studies. An ongoing medical debate about what exactly long Covid is means the industry doesn’t yet have a specific target for therapeutic treatment research.

Without further funds, the fledgling research on potential treatments may come to a standstill.

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The debate over RSV's unprecedented surge and children's health

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Katherine Ellen Foley talks with Krista Mahr about why the rise of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in infants 6 months and younger is worse this season compared to previous seasons. This statement comes after the Children’s Hospital Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics asked the Biden administration to declare a public health emergency over the surging caseloads filling pediatric hospitals.

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Why venture capital for health technology startups is tanking

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Ben Leonard talks with Ruth Reader about why venture capitalists are pulling back on investments in health tech because of recession fears and rising interest rates — threatening a period of stasis in medical innovation.

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Your guide to the next six weeks in Washington on health care

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Grace Scullion talks with Lauren Gardner about the newest Covid funding request from President Biden, intense lobbying efforts on possible health care legislation, and a push by some key doctor and hospital groups asking for a public health emergency declaration for RSV.

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For Congress, health privacy is top of mind

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Politicians on both sides of the aisle agree that more safeguards are needed to protect Americans’ health data. The urgency level has risen as data collection online has grown, states have begun enforcing abortion bans and cyberattacks have increased. Ruth Reader talks with Carmen Paun about the multitude of views that lawmakers, lobbyists and the Biden administration have on how to protect health data, particularly data not covered by the federal health privacy law, HIPAA.

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The end of the military's Covid-19 vaccination requirement?

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0000

The military’s Covid-19 vaccine requirement could end if Republican senators succeed in amending the National Defense Authorization Act that’s expected to be taken up in the coming weeks. Megan Messerly talks with Grace Scullion about the legislation. Plus, Carmen Paun discusses the U.N.'s recognition of a huge milestone: the earth’s population now totals eight billion.

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The state Supreme Court races that gave anti-abortion groups a win

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0000

A pair of little-discussed Republican victories on Tuesday threaten to undermine abortion access in two states. Megan Messerly talks with Katherine Ellen Foley about why this highlights a bright spot for the GOP amid an otherwise challenging election night for anti-abortion groups.

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How a potentially divided government would affect health policy

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.), a gastroenterologist, is a contender to chair the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee if Republicans can eke out control of the Senate. Ben Leonard talks with Alice Miranda Ollstein about his recent conversation with Cassidy, who is a telehealth proponent and has repeatedly warned about hackers targeting hospitals and other health care organizations. Plus, Lauren Gardner takes Pulse Check's 60 second challenge.

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SCOTUS case could change who gets sued if a Medicaid recipient's rights are violated

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0000

A coming Supreme Court decision could have broad implications for who is accountable for ensuring individual rights to federally funded services are protected, including housing, foster care and nutrition. Ruth Reader talks with Grace Scullion about HHC v. Talevski. Plus, Chris Murray on the new study out of the Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington’s School of Medicine which estimates immunity to Covid by country.

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How motivating were abortion rights in the midterms?

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Pennsylvania's current Democratic attorney general Josh Shapiro was elected governor Tuesday night, and Pennsylvania Democratic Senate candidate John Fetterman won against Mehmet Oz. Both Shapiro and Fetterman made abortion rights central to their campaigns. Alice Miranda Ollstein talks with Ben Leonard about what we know and what we don't know so far about how motivating abortion rights were at the ballot box.

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The non-abortion-related health care ballot measures to watch Tuesday

Tue, 08 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Although they haven't been focused on as much as abortion, other measures across the health care spectrum are on the ballot Tuesday. Daniel Payne talks with Ruth Reader about Medicaid expansion, medical debt, health as a human right, flavored vape bans and marijuana legalization.

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The races that will shape abortion access in the states

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 10:00:00 -0000

From governors to ballot measures, legislatures to attorneys general, voters are casting ballots both directly and indirectly on abortion. Megan Messerly talks with Katherine Ellen Foley about the top races she's watching that will impact who can obtain an abortion, where and how. Also, Alice Miranda Ollstein provides a dispatch from Kentucky.

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A new Congressional report linking cybersecurity to health security

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 09:00:00 -0000

A new congressional report links cybersecurity in the health sector to patient safety. Ben Leonard talks with Megan Messerly about the new report from Senate Cybersecurity Caucus co-founder Mark Warner’s (D-Va.) office, which asks Congress to consider getting HHS to set minimum security standards for the health industry. Plus, Katherine Ellen Foley on what you should know from Pfizer and Moderna's earnings calls.

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Why opioid treatment providers are very, very worried about fentanyl

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 09:00:00 -0000

On Wednesday, in a deal not yet finalized, CVS, Walgreens and Walmart agreed to pay a total of $13.8 billion to settle thousands of lawsuits for their roles in the opioid crisis. Krista Mahr talks with Grace Scullion about the settlement and the newest developments on the opioid front.

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Experts pinpoint problems with the FDA's tobacco program

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 09:09:13 -0000

The FDA’s tobacco regulatory decision-making process is so slow and opaque that it’s ineffective, say legal, industry and public health experts appearing before an outside panel conducting a commissioner-mandated review of the program. Katherine Ellen Foley talks with Ben Leonard. Plus, Greer Donley, a professor specializing in reproductive health care at the University of Pittsburgh Law School, breaks down what the FDA’s stance on doctors prescribing abortion pills to people who aren’t yet pregnant means in practice.

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RSV surge casts focus on vaccine pipeline

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Pediatric hospitals nationwide are filling with children severely ill with respiratory syncytial virus that, after two years of the Covid-19 pandemic, has made a sudden surge. Lauren Gardner talks with Alice Miranda Ollstein about how the increase in RSV cases casts attention on a handful of drugmakers with vaccines. Plus, Alice's dispatch from Michigan where Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is trying to make an economic case for abortion rights.

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BIO leadership shakeup followed clashes with board

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

The leading industry group for biopharmaceutical companies is reeling after the departure of its CEO — just as the Biden administration is poised to begin implementing a new law aimed at reducing drug prices and as the balance of power could shift in Congress. Megan Wilson talks with Katherine Ellen Foley about the turmoil at the industry group. Plus, Chris Hammond, a Covid long-hauler, shares what life has been like for him, the Johns Hopkins trials he's a part of, and why he's not optimistic about additional Covid funding from Congress.

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What we learned from the MedTech conference

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

David Lim talks with Ruth Reader about the biggest takeaways from MedTech, an annual conference held by the medical device industry. Plus, researcher Eric Bressman discusses a new study that found that sending patients automated text messages to check on them after they’ve left the hospital can reduce their chances of readmission or a visit to the emergency room.

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Congress has a plan for rural hospitals. Most aren't interested.

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Two years after Congress offered a fix to struggling rural hospitals, the overwhelming majority are taking a pass. Daniel Payne talks with Alice Miranda Ollstein about why. Plus, Katherine Ellen Foley breaks down the CDC's newest Morbidity and Mortality weekly report on monkeypox.

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Medical debt on the ballot in Arizona

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Arizona voters could approve a measure designed to stop creditors from gouging people with medical bills, and other states are taking notice. If the Arizona measure passes, the union-backed initiative is likely to be replicated in other red and purple states where progressives have successfully pushed ballot measures to accomplish what conservative legislators will not, like expanding Medicaid, raising the minimum wage and establishing paid sick leave. Megan Messerly talks with Lauren Gardner about the new measure. Plus, David Agus, the Ellison Institute’s CEO, on developing digital Covid certificates, green passes and Covid passports.

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The epidemics we stopped

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Nearly three years into the Covid-19 pandemic, a new report from Resolve to Save Lives is highlighting the infectious diseases that didn’t end in catastrophe. Daniel Payne talks with Krista Mahr about what we can learn from case studies of of successful containment in ebola, rabies and cholera.

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What we can learn about experiments in remote care

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Large health systems are investing big money into providing more care at home — everything from post-operative care to treatments for chronic disease. Even as successive administrations have touted remote patient monitoring programs as key to improving health and reducing unnecessary government spending, state Medicaid offices often remain an impediment to scaling them nationally. Ruth Reader talks with Katherine Ellen Foley about why.

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Biden's bivalent booster scramble

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

The Biden administration is racing against the dropping temperatures to convince more Americans to get the updated Covid-19 booster shot amid low uptake numbers driven by confusion over the shot, declining infection numbers and profound pandemic fatigue. Krista Mahr talks with Grace Scullion about what the Biden administration's messaging strategy is and whether it's working. Plus, William Schaffner, medical director for the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, on the limitations of the CDC.

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Inside Biden's new pandemic preparedness and biodefense strategy

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

President Joe Biden signed a national security memorandum Tuesday that aims to ensure the U.S. is ready to detect and respond to the next large-scale viral or biological threat. Erin Banco talks with Ben Leonard about the administration’s preparedness plans. Plus, Micky Tripathi, the national coordinator for Health IT speaks about HHS's deadline this month requiring health care organizations to share all electronic health care data.

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How a battle over a pregnancy drug highlights risks in FDA's expediting process

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

The FDA will make its case this week to do something it hasn’t in over a decade — order a drug it expedited to the market to be pulled. A panel of independent expert advisers on obstetric and reproductive drugs will decide whether to recommend that Makena, an injection marketed as lowering the risk of preterm birth, remain available for at least some patients. Lauren Gardner talks with Daniel Payne about why the years-long effort to yank the drug’s approval offers a case study of the agency’s accelerated approval program.

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Congress is primed for action on mental health

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Americans are now more concerned about their mental health than Covid, according to a recent poll from Ipsos, and the situation is motivating lawmakers in both parties to provide an increasingly stressed, depressed and anxious populace with the appropriate care. Grace Scullion talks with Lauren Gardner. Plus, David Lim on the FDA’s new rule allowing over-the-counter hearing aids that goes into effect today.

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What could help the global monkeypox vaccine situation? A couple of brothers.

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Top Biden White House and health officials are looking to Japan to potentially make its smallpox vaccine available to countries that need doses to help combat monkeypox. Erin Banco talks with Megan Wilson about why Japan’s smallpox doses could be crucial for low and middle-income countries. Plus, Rep. Elissa Slotkin told Alice Miranda Ollstein why she's still frustrated with Democratic leadership over lack of preparation on abortion access.

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Warning to your health care bills: more inflation is on the way

Thu, 13 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Rising health care costs are poised to become the next big battle in President Joe Biden’s war against inflation. Sam Sutton talks with Carmen Paun about why your health coverage and out-of-pocket medical bills are about to go through the roof.

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Doctors campaign for their candidates?

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Physicians across Pennsylvania are politicking in unprecedented ways with less than a month to go before the midterm election, making the case that the abortion restrictions proposed by Republicans would threaten one of the state’s most important economic sectors. Alice Miranda Ollstein shares a dispatch from Pennsylvania and Michigan with Krista Mahr. Plus, Dr. Katie McHugh on moving her abortion practice to other states.

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Why the U.S. lags in approving a nasal Covid vaccine

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Foreign rivals are developing nasal vaccines that could stop Covid transmission and a U.S. company invented the nasal vaccine that an Indian drugmaker licensed. But in the United States, Congress can’t agree on how to pay for additional money to fund next-generation Covid vaccines. Carmen Paun about her reporting with Megan Messerly. Plus, Dr. David Curiel on developing the nasal Covid-19 vaccine that Indian drugmaker Bharat Biotech has licensed.

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Abortion services continue to dwindle post-Roe

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Sunday marked 100 days since Roe v. Wade was overturned. Since then, 66 clinics in more than a dozen states have stopped providing abortions, according to a new report from the Guttmacher Institute, an abortion-rights advocacy and research group. POLITICO’s Megan Messerly talks to Ruth Reader about her reporting. Plus, Adam Cancryn on Biden’s revival of Operation Warp Speed.

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Should these opioids be schedule 1 drugs?

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

More than 100 researchers, scientists and public health professionals want fentanyl-related substances to no longer be Schedule I drugs — saying a different classification has the potential to unlock research on those drugs to treat opioid addiction or other mental health conditions. Daniel Payne and Ben Leonard unpack a Tuesday letter sent to the White House. Plus, Jason Gibbons, a postdoctoral fellow at Johns Hopkins University, explains a new study on using buprenorphine in Medicare patients.

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How the staggering nursing shortage might end

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Predictions of doom about the future of nursing grew, as hospitals reported critical staffing shortages during the Covid surges of 2020 and 2021. But there are signs staffing shortfalls are dissipating as the federal and state governments send aid—maybe. Lauren Gardner talks to Shawn Zeller about whether the crunch is easing. Plus, David Markowitz, a professor of communication at the University of Oregon, on his study about how doctors’ notes (1.8 million of them) can reveal the way physicians sometimes treat patients differently depending on their ethnicity or gender.

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Why states aren't applying to Biden's abortion access solution

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

The Biden administration is offering the opportunity to use Medicaid to help cover costs for people who cross state borders for abortions. But not a single state has applied. Megan Messerly reports. Plus, Megan Wilson on the lobbying battle heating up on Capitol Hill over legislation that would bolster dialysis coverage following a Supreme Court ruling earlier this year.

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The war against superbugs

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Lawmakers are on the brink of missing a critical window to fix America’s broken antibiotic market — and to prepare for the growing crisis of superbugs that federal officials say is a national security threat and experts warn is already a silent pandemic. Krista Mahr talks to Alice Miranda Ollstein about her reporting. Plus, Ruth Reader on four consequential trends that will affect health care’s future.

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Abortion bans complicate prescriptions for other drugs

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Patients seeking drugs to treat everything from arthritis to acne in the dozen-plus states with near-total abortion bans must show extra documentation to prove that they’re not using the drugs to end a pregnancy. Alice Miranda Ollstein dives into her reporting. And, Ruth Reader on the White House's ambitious plan to end hunger in the country by 2030.

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The fallout from Biden going off script on the pandemic

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 09:00:00 -0000

President Joe Biden’s Sunday declaration that the pandemic is over caught his own senior health officials off guard. Ben Leonard talks to Adam Cancryn about the President's “60 Minutes” interview and the implications that will have on his policy agenda. Plus, Alice Miranda Ollstein provides a reality check from Capitol Hill, where the likelihood of Congress passing any additional Covid-10 funding seems slim.

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New CDC data shows STD rates shot up in 2021

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Syphilis rates jumped 26 percent last year — the biggest annual increase since the Truman administration — amid a broader rise in sexually transmitted infections. Plus, Erin Banco breaks down her seven-month investigation into the global pandemic response of four non-governmental global health organizations, including the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Bolstered by contacts at the highest levels of Western nations, these four organizations took on roles often played by governments — but without the same accountability.

Check out Erin's story here.

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Monkeypox vaccine unknowns

Thu, 08 Sep 2022 09:00:00 -0000

Hundreds of thousands of Americans have received the Jynneos monkeypox vaccine since the U.S. outbreak started in May, but there’s a long list of things we still don’t know about how efficacious it will be. Plus, Professor Robert Blendon, the co-director of the POLITICO-Harvard polls, on the most interesting toplines from survey data released today.

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Omicron booster shots could soon be on their way

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 09:30:00 -0000

On Wednesday, the FDA authorized Covid booster shots from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna capable of generating protection against the coronavirus strains circulating most widely in the U.S. The move allows the Biden administration to begin offering boosters just after Labor Day, pending an endorsement from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Plus, Katherine Ellen Foley sits down with Dr. Brian King, U.S. chief tobacco regulator, in one of his first public interviews.

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FDA reviews first-ever OTC birth control application

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 10:00:00 -0000

The Food and Drug Administration is reviewing a first-of-its-kind application from HRA Pharma for Opill. If green-lit by the agency, Opill would become the first daily, hormonal birth control pill sold without a prescription. The submission of the application follows more than six years of studies the company has run. Alice Miranda Ollstein reports.

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FDA adds more advisors after a spring of stumbles

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Stung by messaging missteps over the coronavirus crisis, baby formula shortage and abortion access, the Food and Drug Administration is planning to hire Vin Gupta, a new senior adviser to shore up the agency’s public messaging. Gupta’s hire is part of a series of high-level additions to the FDA in the last few weeks. Adam Cancryn reports.

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The state lawmakers at the center of abortion rights

Thu, 30 Jun 2022 10:00:00 -0000

For decades, state lawmakers had limited avenues to control abortion. Now, the power to decide when — and whether — abortion should be legal is squarely in their hands. Megan Messerly looks at the states and people re-shaping abortion policies in 2022 and 2023.

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Patients could lose telehealth options for addiction treatment

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Federal regulations that have allowed practitioners the flexibility to prescribe buprenorphine virtually — and to patients outside their state — are due to expire along with the Covid-19 public health emergency, even as opioid deaths reach record levels. Krista Mahr reports.

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Global abortion-rights advocates brace for impact from Roe

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Abortion-rights advocates from around the world have met with congressional, USAID, HHS and State Department leaders to discuss concerns that their countries will be next if the Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade. Daniel Payne reports.

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What researchers know — and don't — about long Covid

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 10:00:00 -0000

There is no test for long Covid, and the CDC and the medical community have no official definition. But health care workers across the country are diagnosing patients who have previously contracted Covid-19 based on a wide-ranging set of symptoms. A CDC study released May 27 said that one in five adults in the U.S. may develop the condition — but there are still more questions than answers. Erin Banco reports.

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Vaccine injury compensation programs overwhelmed while Congress stalls

Thu, 02 Jun 2022 10:00:00 -0000

A pair of federal programs compensating people who suffer injuries from vaccines and pandemic treatments are now facing so many claims that thousands of people may not receive payment for their injuries any time soon. Covid has only made it more complicated. Lauren Gardner reports.

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Getting the risk messaging right on monkeypox

Thu, 26 May 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Public health officials insist there is no reason to panic, but cite a growing number of cases on both sides of the Atlantic as reasons to prep and order vaccines. The outbreak is particularly unusual, as most infected patients have not traveled to West and Central Africa where the virus is endemic in animals. Carmen Paun reports.

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Ghana's covid vaccination campaign

Thu, 19 May 2022 10:30:00 -0000

When friends and family got sick last year, people across Ghana scrambled to get shots. But there weren’t enough. Now, many say they don’t want the jab. Local volunteers are struggling to change their minds. Erin Banco reports.

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The push inside the FDA for over-the-counter birth control

Thu, 12 May 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Blue-state governors and lawmakers from California to New York are vowing to turn their states into sanctuaries for people seeking abortions. plus, the yearslong push for over-the-counter birth control is taking on fresh urgency in the wake of a potential Supreme Court decision rolling back abortion rights. Lauren Gardner reports.

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Bringing clinical trials into the 21st century

Thu, 05 May 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Clinical trials have long been plagued by inefficiency, lack of diversity and the inability to leverage data. The pandemic increased the need to modernize trials, which pushed many trials to lean on technology to conduct remote trials. Ben Leonard explains why money pouring into the space and why many clinical trials are still stuck in the previous century.

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Menthol cigs face an FDA ban

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 10:00:00 -0000

The FDA may propose a rule banning menthol cigarettes as early as today, a decision 10 years in the making. The agency has long faced calls to act on menthol cigarettes, which are disproportionately smoked by Black Americans and teens just starting to use tobacco. Katherine Foley reports.

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Biden admin will rescind Trump ‘conscience’ rule for health workers

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 10:00:00 -0000

The Biden administration is preparing to scrap a Trump-era rule that allows medical workers to refuse to provide services that conflict with their religious or moral beliefs, people familiar with the deliberations told POLITICO. Alice Miranda Ollstein reports.

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Insulin, a poster child for unaffordable drugs

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Insulin is what economists would call a super inelastic product — no matter what the cost is, people are going to pay for it because it's a life saving medication. Two bills in Congress take aim at insulin prices — but one only targets co-pays for insured patients. Katherine Foley reports.

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Amazon's big moves in the telehealth space

Thu, 07 Apr 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Amazon has been pushing into health care for years, starting with wearable health devices and pharmacy services. But the nationwide expansion of its “Amazon Care” service is its biggest move in the rapidly growing telehealth industry, which could grow to a $20 billion sector over the next five years.

Most of Amazon’s telehealth and in-person offerings are likely covered by HIPAA, but some of Amazon’s other offerings, such as its partnership with Teladoc on the Alexa smart speaker, might fall into a gray area. Emily Birnbaum reports.

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The puzzling case of hospitals and N95s

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 10:00:00 -0000

POLITICO reporter Rachael Levy broke the story that some hospitals have been asking patients to remove their N95 masks — even though they offer better protection. That story spurred U.S. health officials to consider notifying Americans how to report facilities that they believe endanger them, and the CDC now says on its website that people should “use the most protective form” of masks. Rachael’s reporting changed a national policy in a matter of days — but the question remains why policymakers in the US are behind on mask guidance. Rachael Levy reports.

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White House warns free Covid treatments at risk

Thu, 17 Mar 2022 10:00:00 -0000

The White House asked for $22.5 billion for covid response funds. Last week, Congress put together a bipartisan $15 billion plan. But so far, exactly zero dollars have actually been agreed upon. And even as the administration warns it may need to cancel new orders of Covid-19 drugs as soon as next week and wind down access to testing soon after that, there appears to be no clear strategy from either the White House or Capitol Hill to secure the funds. The Biden administration insists it’s doing all it can to hammer home for lawmakers that failing to swiftly approve the funding will have serious consequences. Top appropriators on Capitol Hill point the finger back at the administration, saying the White House did not make a convincing enough case for the money to win over Republicans. Adam Cancryn reports.

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CDC relaxes guidelines and Biden’s new covid plans

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 11:00:00 -0000

The White House has been reluctant to declare the end of the pandemic — especially after optimism last summer about "independence" from the virus was made moot by the Delta and Omicron variants. But officials have pointed to vaccine and test availability — and hope that revised CDC guidance and a new plan could ease political pressure for a path out of the pandemic. The plan will include streamlined “test-to-treat” programs at pharmacies and other health entities, which would antiviral drugs to people who test positive as the availability of those treatments increase.

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Inside the FDA's 4-month delay over infant formula

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 11:00:00 -0000

The FDA first received a report of a foodborne illness suspected to be linked to infant formula in September, four months before issuing a sweeping recall of three major brands after four babies were hospitalized and one died. When the FDA initiated an inspection of an Abbot facility making formula (after the death?), inspectors found Cronobacter sakazakii, a rare but serious foodborne pathogen that can cause life-threatening infections. Helena Bottemiller Evich reports.

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Finding another $30 billion for Covid aid

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 11:00:00 -0000

Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra told congressional appropriators in charge of crafting a supplemental pandemic funding package that the Biden health department needs at least $30 billion to keep its wide-ranging Covid-19 response work going, especially in the event that another variant emerges. Some Republican senators, however, are openly skeptical that more funding is needed, citing the country’s improving pandemic and economic outlook — and the multiple rounds of federal aid Congress pumped out over the last two years, which some lawmakers believe has contributed to soaring inflation. Alice Miranda Ollstein reports.

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Medicaid staring down end-of-pandemic deadline

Thu, 10 Feb 2022 11:00:00 -0000

When the pandemic began, Congress barred states from kicking people off Medicaid in exchange for additional federal funding. Enrollment surged nearly 20 percent over the next 16 months to 76.7 million, an all-time high. But state audits that happen when the health crisis is declared "over" could lead to as many as 15 million people, including 6 million children, losing their health insurance, according to an analysis from the Urban Institute.Now, states fear that winding down the expanded social safety net could prove messy — as many of the millions removed from the rolls may not know they’ve lost their health insurance or which options are available for new coverage. Megan Messerly reports.

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Pfizer asks FDA to authorize Covid shot for kids under 5

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 11:00:00 -0000

On Tuesday, Pfizer and BioNTech announced they’re seeking Food and Drug Administration authorization for the first two doses of a planned three-dose Covid-19 vaccine regimen for children under 5 — the last age bracket remaining witout a Covid-19 vaccine. The agency also announced that it would convene its independent panel of vaccine experts on Feb. 15 to consider the data and make a recommendation to regulators. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s advisers could quickly follow suit should the FDA grant the request, meaning these children could receive their first vaccines later this month. While many welcomed the new development, some pediatricians raised concerns that the companies were moving too quickly, before they had finished studying whether a third dose would provide the necessary protection to children.

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The newest pandemic wedge issue: Sotrovimab

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 11:00:00 -0000

Republicans are accusing the Biden administration of racism — against white people. The FDA’s December guidance on the use of sotrovimab — the only monoclonal antibody proven effective against Omicron — notes people of color may be at higher risk for severe Covid-19 and said it’s one factor among several that doctors can consider when doling out the drug, given that Sotrovimab remains in short supply. But, it's now become the latest political talking point for Republicans, looking to energize their base ahead of the midterm elections, and the political backlash is already fraying patchwork policy at the state level. Megan Messerly reports.

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Why the Biden administration is finally ramping up tests and masks

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 11:00:00 -0000

After more than a month of surging case numbers due to the Omicron variant, the Biden administration is responding with more testing and masking. On Wednesday, it launched covidtests.gov, a website that allows users to request four free at-home covid test and this week also unveiled a plan to distribute hundreds of millions of free N-95 masks through pharmacies and community sites. In a Wednesday press conference, Biden alluded to the late start, saying, "Should we have done more testing earlier? Yes. But we're doing more now." Adam Cancryn on where the administration is at, one year in.

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'Confusion and frustration': Congress on the CDC

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 11:00:00 -0000

As we round into the third year of the pandemic and a surging wave of cases due to the Omicron variant, Democrats and Republicans alike raised sharp questions and complaints in the most recent Senate HELP Committee oversight hearing. Alice Miranda Ollstein reports.

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CDC doubles down on December guidance

Thu, 06 Jan 2022 11:00:00 -0000

After days of criticism over new isolation and quarantine guidelines, the CDC doubled down Tuesday on its policy. Erin Banco reports on that decision, the current omicron surge and why booster programs may limit global vaccine supply.

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Califf a likely confirmation for FDA

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 11:00:00 -0000

Robert Califf sailed through his Senate confirmation hearing on Tuesday, despite some opposition from Democrats ranging from Bernie Sanders to Joe Manchin related to failures by the FDA (including under Califf) to reign in the opioid epidemic and industry ties. A confirmation vote in January would give the agency a permanent political leader for the first time during the Biden presidency. Adam Cancryn reports.

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Democrats' fight over prescription drug prices

Thu, 09 Dec 2021 10:30:00 -0000

President Biden on Monday nudged members of his party in Congress push through his signature Build Back Better plan, which includes provisions that would give Medicare the power to bargain on the price of a handful of the most expensive drugs; penalize drugmakers who raise prices faster than inflation for people; and cap out-of-pocket costs for insulin at $35 per month. Democrats’ ability to meaningfully impact drug prices, however, depends heavily on Congress passing the party’s $1.7 trillion social spending bill in the coming weeks. Alice Miranda Ollstein reports.

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Where Novavax went wrong

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 11:00:00 -0000

POLITICO's Erin Banco breaks down how production problems at Novavax left the world waiting for a vaccine.

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Get ready for more boosters

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 11:00:00 -0000

The FDA is poised to expand access to boosters across the nation. POLITICO's Adam Cancryn reports.

Adam Cancryn is a health reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio.

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What vaccine mandates look like in reality

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 11:00:00 -0000

Biden called for widespread mandates. His VA is navigating its own minefields. POLITICO's Natasha Korecki reports.

Natasha Korecki is a White House Correspondent for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio.

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School vaccine mandates are being put to the test

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Hundreds of thousands of California students face an imminent choice: Get vaccinated for Covid-19 or stay home. POLITICO's Mackenzie Mays breaks down how some schools districts in the Golden State are putting mandates to the test.

Mackenzie Mays is an education reporter for POLITICO California.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio.

Read more: California schools: Get Covid shots or go back to distance learning

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Presenting Global Insider: Taiwan’s digital minister on China’s “digital authoritarianism”

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Imagine a world in which middle schoolers fact check presidential debates and public officials publish transcripts of every conversation they have. That’s the world that Audrey Tang, Taiwan’s digital minister, has helped create, thereby fortifying Taiwan’s democracy even as it faces increasing threats from China. In this special presentation of POLITICO's Global Insider, Tang tells host Ryan Heath what it’s like to govern and live in the shadow of China.

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More booster news and shots for kids: What you need to know

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 10:00:00 -0000

It's a big week for vaccine news. POLITICO's Lauren Gardner breaks it all down with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel.

Lauren Gardner is an FDA reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio.

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Who will the vaccine mandate affect?

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Labor reporter Rebecca Rainey breaks down what we know about the Biden administration's vaccine mandate — and who it'll hit and miss when it takes effect.

Rebecca Rainey is a labor reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio.

Read more: Where Biden’s vaccine mandate will hit and miss

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A new testing push

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 10:00:00 -0000

The Biden administration is making a new investment in at-home Covid testing. POLITICO's David Lim talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about what that means for the fight against the pandemic.

David Lim is a health reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio.

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The holidays are coming. Is a Covid surge coming, too?

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Last year, some states saw their worst surges in October and December. A lot has changed since then, including the widespread availability of vaccines, but POLITICO's Erin Banco is still considered about what could happen this holiday season.

Erin Banco is a health reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio.

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Becerra takes back seat on Covid

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0000

He's the nation's top health official. But he's rarely the one giving orders. POLITICO's Adam Cancryn reports.

Adam Cancryn is a health reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio.

Read more: Becerra takes a back seat while others steer Covid response

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DeSantis' transformation on vaccinations

Thu, 16 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Earlier this summer, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis was a vocal proponent of vaccinations. Now, he's fighting mandates and edging closer to anti-vaxxers. POLITICO's Gary Fineout tells Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel what's behind the shift.

Gary Fineout is a reporter for POLITICO Florida.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio.

Read more: DeSantis flirts with the anti-vaccine crowd

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Could pandemic programs provide a path to ending hunger?

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Covid wrecked the economy and sent unemployment skyrocketing. But poverty went down, and the percentage of households facing food insecurity remained stagnant. POLITICO's Helena Bottemiller Evich explains how ambitious spending plans gave some Americans a lifeline.

Helena Bottemiller Evich is a senior food and agriculture reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio.

Read more from POLITICO's Recovery Lab series.

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Immunity: making sense of the data

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0000

The limited data we have shows that immunity among vaccinated people is waning. But how much and when is another story. POLITICO's Sarah Owermohle reports.

Sarah Owermohle is a health reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio.

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New variant, same story

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Hospitals are once again experiencing a dangerous shortage of medical workers as Delta cases surge across the country, POLITICO's Alice Miranda Ollstein reports.

Alice Miranda Ollstein is a health reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio.

Read more: Health worker crunch pressures state battling Delta variant

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How America failed at reporting Covid data

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 10:00:00 -0000

POLITICO's Erin Banco breaks down a six-month investigation into America's failure to identify Covid hotspots quickly enough to prevent outbreaks.

Erin Banco is a health reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio.

Read more: Inside America’s Covid-reporting breakdown

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What we know about kids and Covid

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Nearly 1,600 kids with Covid-19 were hospitalized last week — a new seven-day record and a 27 percent increase from the week before. POLITICO's Dan Goldberg tells Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel what's behind the surge.

Dan Goldberg is a health reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio.

Read more: Children's hospitals are swamped with Covid patients — and it may only get worse

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What we know about vaccines and variants right now

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 10:00:00 -0000

There’s been a lot of misinformation about the Delta variant and vaccinations in recent days. So POLITICO Pulse’s Sarah Owermohle joins Dispatch’s Jeremy Siegel to cut through the noise and break down the data. Plus, some welcome news about full approval for Pfizer.

Sarah Owermohle is a health reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio.

Read more: FDA targets early September for approving Pfizer's Covid-19 vaccine

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What to know about the new mask guidance

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 10:00:00 -0000

POLITICO’s Erin Banco breaks down everything we know — and don’t — about the CDC’s new mask guidance.

Erin Banco covers the CDC for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio.

CDC map of Covid transmission by county

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How Covid upended the workforce

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 10:00:00 -0000

The economy is recovering, but millions are still out of jobs. POLITICO's Katherine Landergan spoke to a panel of experts about how to get Americans back to work.

Katherine Landergan is POLITICO's New Jersey bureau chief.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio.

Read more:
Welcome to Recovery Lab: Work
Policy Hackathon: How to get more Americans back to work
The future of work has arrived, and it’s messy

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Japan's Olympic gamble

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 10:00:00 -0000

The Tokyo Olympics will take place under a state of emergency with no spectators. POLITICO's Ryan Heath talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about why Covid could still be a problem.

Ryan Heath authors the Global Translations newsletter and hosts the Global Translations podcast.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio.

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In Chicago, Biden's vax plan crashes into reality

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 10:00:00 -0000

After falling short of its July Fourth goal, the White House is now turning to a hyper-local strategy. But as POLITICO's Natasha Korecki reports, progress is slow.

Natasha Korecki is a White House reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio.

Read more: Biden’s Covid vaccine push crashes into reality

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What to know about the Delta variant

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 10:00:00 -0000

The bad news: It’s more transmissible. The good news: Vaccines seem to work on it. POLITICO's David Lim talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about how much of a problem the Delta variant could be.

David Lim is a health care reporter for POLITICO and authors the Prescription Pulse newsletter.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio.

Read more in the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.

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Why we're gonna miss our vaccine goal

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 10:00:00 -0000

The Fourth of July. That was the date Biden wanted 70 percent of the country vaccinated by. But that doesn't look like it's going to happen. POLITICO's Adam Cancryn talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about why.

Adam Cancryn is a health care reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio.

Read more in the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.

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A political and legislative boost for anti-vaxxers

Wed, 16 Jun 2021 10:00:00 -0000

The partisan divide over the country's pandemic response has reinvigorated the anti-vaccine movement nationwide. POLITICO's Lauren Gardner tells Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about new state laws that are amplifying the issue.

Lauren Gardner is an FDA reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Raghu Manavalan is a senior editor for POLITICO audio.

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Can the G7 deliver on vaccines?

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Leaders of some of the world’s wealthiest nations gather in the U.K. this week for the Group of Seven Summit. POLITICO’s Carmen Paun talks with Dispatch’s Jeremy Siegel about growing calls for the G7 to do more in the global vaccination effort — and what we can expect from the summit.

Carmen Paun is a global health reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.

Read more in the Global Pulse newsletter.

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Why Covid rules on liquor, pot and telemedicine might stick around

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 10:00:00 -0000

As vaccination rates rise and cases drop, emergency orders that legalized things like to-go cocktails and pot deliveries are set to expire. POLITICO's Dan Goldberg talks with Jeremy Siegel about a lobbying frenzy to keep some of those measures in place.

Dan Goldberg is a health reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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The future of transit after Covid

Thu, 27 May 2021 10:00:00 -0000

The pandemic changed everything — including transit, where ridership plummeted across the country. So where do transit agencies go from here? POLITICO’s Tanya Snyder breaks down what she learned from a group of experts to Dispatch’s Jeremy Siegel.

Tanya Snyder is a transportation reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.

This story was reported as part of POLITICO's Recovery Lab series.

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How do we boost vaccination rates?

Thu, 20 May 2021 10:00:00 -0000

The truth is, nobody really knows. But some states are thinking outside of the box — like Ohio, where vaccinated people could win $1 million in a lottery. POLITICO's Dan Goldberg talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about what might work.

Dan Goldberg is a health reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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Cases are surging in Southeast Asia. Where’s the U.S.?

Thu, 13 May 2021 10:00:00 -0000

India and neighboring countries in Southeast Asia are seeing infections surge at alarming rates. POLITICO’s Erin Banco talks with Dispatch’s Jeremy Siegel about what the U.S. is — and isn’t — doing to help. But first: Would you get vaccinated in Dracula’s castle?

Erin Banco is a health reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.

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The problem with health data

Thu, 06 May 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters. And subscribe to our other newsletter POLITICO Future Pulse, looking at where health care and technology intersect.

Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch and produces Pulse Check.
Mohana Ravindranath is a reporter tracking health tech and data privacy.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

Check out Mohana Ravindranath's and Katy Murphy's story "Who's tracking the health trackers?": https://www.politico.com/newsletters/future-pulse

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Which wizard is your vaccine?

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0000

From Pfizer to Sputnik to Johnson & Johnson, POLITICO’s Sarah Owermohle talks with Dispatch’s Jeremy Siegel about all the different vaccines available and the roles they might play globally. But first: If your vaccine were a Harry Potter character, which would it be?

Sarah Owermohle is a health reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.

Read more in the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.

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Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0000

President Jonathan Nez talks with POLITICO's Jeremy Siegel about how the Navajo Nation went from one of the hardest hit regions in America to a vaccination success story.

Jonathan Nez is the President of the Navajo Nation.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.

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Let's talk about testing

Thu, 15 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0000

From elementary schools to living rooms, Covid testing will play a big role in the return to some semblance of normalcy. POLITICO's David Lim — who's been on the testing beat since day one — talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about everything you need to know when it comes to coronavirus tests.

David Lim is a health care reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

Subscribe to the Prescription Pulse newsletter.

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What we can learn from Emergent's Covid vaccine mishap

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Last week, reports emerged that a vaccine production plant in Maryland accidentally mixed ingredients and ruined 15 million shots in the process. POLITICO's Sarah Owermohle talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about who is to blame and what we can learn from the situation.

Sarah Owermohle is a health care reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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Why cases are rising and what we can do about it

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0000

It's not just vaccinations that are going up right now. Covid cases are too. And that could be a problem as we try to prevent new variants from spreading. POLITICO's Erin Banco talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about what health officials can and can't do about it — and why the Biden administration is struggling to find the right message for the moment.

Erin Banco is a POLITICO health reporter covering Covid-19 and the CDC.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch and produces Pulse Check.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO Audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO Audio.

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The AstraZeneCatasrophe continues

Thu, 25 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Last week, it was fears of blood clots in the EU. This week, it’s claims of cherry-picking efficacy data in the US. POLITICO's Sarah Owermohle talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about AstraZeneca's transcontinental confidence crisis.

Sarah Owermohle is a health care reporter for POLITICO covering drug policy and vaccines.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch and produces Pulse Check.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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The AstraZeneCatastrophe

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 09:38:35 -0000

It's been like dominos: One European nation after the other has put a pause on AstraZeneca shots due to unproven concerns that the coronavirus vaccine may cause blood clots. POLITICO Europe's Sarah Wheaton breaks down how and why countries panicked despite a lack of evidence.

Sarah Wheaton is POLITICO Europe's chief policy correspondent.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch and produces Pulse Check.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO Audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO Audio.

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To vaccine passport, or not to vaccine passport?

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 11:00:00 -0000

From Canada to Europe to China, wealthy nations are considering introducing vaccine passports that would allow fully vaccinated people to travel internationally. But will that leave poorer nations struggling to vaccinate their populations behind? Global health reporter Carmen Paun talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about how vaccine passports could increase inequities.

Carmen Paun is a global health reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch and produces Pulse Check.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO Audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO Audio.

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The road back to normalcy

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 11:00:00 -0000

As the U.S. ramps up vaccine production and puts together new guidelines for how vaccinated people can (slowly) resume some every day activities, "normal life" feels within reach. POLITICO's Erin Banco talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about what the return to normalcy will actually look like — and why it might be further away than you think.

'CDC's draft guidelines for vaccinated Americans call for small steps toward normal life': https://www.politico.com/news/2021/03/02/cdc-draft-guidelines-for-vaccinated-americans-472451

Erin Banco is a POLITICO health reporter covering Covid-19 and the CDC.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch and produces Pulse Check.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO Audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO Audio.

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Vaccines: The new global currency?

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 11:00:00 -0000

China and Russia are dominating global vaccine donations. The goal? To lift their standings on the world stage — and get a few IOUs from other countries along the way. POLITICO's Ryan Heath talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about the diplomatic tensions emerging in the global vaccination effort. But first, don't get between Tony Soprano and his vaccine supply.

Ryan Heath is the author of the Global Translations newsletter.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch and produces Pulse Check.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO Audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO Audio.

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Lessons from the front lines of the vaccine effort

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 11:00:00 -0000

Ever wish you could hop on a zoom with health officials in charge of vaccine rollouts, about what's gone right and what's gone wrong? POLITICO's Sarah Owermohle did — and she's got some stories to tell. This is part of POLITICO's Recovery Lab series highlighting the smartest new ideas for combating the pandemic.

Sarah Owermohle is a health care reporter for POLITICO covering drug policy and vaccines.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch and produces Pulse Check.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO Audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO Audio.

Policy Hackathon: How to fix vaccination:
https://www.politico.com/_preview?_cms.db.previewId=00000177-b253-d644-a377-fedbf6f30000&_date=

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Europe's sloppy vaccine rollout

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 11:15:00 -0000

A lengthy approval process. Complex, multi-state negotiations. Production snags at every corner. The European Union's vaccine rollout has been anything but smooth. POLITICO Europe's Jillian Deutsch talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about how it went so wrong.

Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch and produces Pulse Check.
Jillian Deutsch is a reporter for POLITICO Europe.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

Referenced in this episode:

'How Europe fell behind on vaccines' by Jillian Deutsch and Sarah Wheaton: https://www.politico.eu/article/europe-coronavirus-vaccine-struggle-pfizer-biontech-astrazeneca/

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Reopening schools: A messy report card

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 11:00:00 -0000

California Governor Gavin Newsom wants schools to reopen. But teachers want to get vaccinated first, which could take a while. POLITICO’s Mackenzie Mays talks with Jeremy Siegel about the messy politics of the situation — and how it could throw a wrench into President Biden’s effort to get kids back in classrooms across the country.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters. And subscribe to our other newsletter POLITICO Future Pulse, looking at where health care and technology intersect.

Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch and produces Pulse Check.
Mackenzie Mays is a reporter covering education in California.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

Referenced in this episode:

Newsom: California schools won't reopen 'if we wait for the perfect' by Mackenzie Mays

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The problem with health data

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 11:00:00 -0000

Calorie counters. Sleep trackers. Health apps. They all gather a lot of data on you — and there's a decent chance they're selling it. Future Pulse author Mohana Ravindranath talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about a story she co-reported with POLITICO's Katy Murphy on who's tracking the health trackers.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters. And subscribe to our other newsletter POLITICO Future Pulse, looking at where health care and technology intersect.

Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch and produces Pulse Check.
Mohana Ravindranath is a reporter tracking health tech and data privacy.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

Check out Mohana Ravindranath's and Katy Murphy's story "Who's tracking the health trackers?": https://www.politico.com/newsletters/future-pulse

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New president. Same pandemic.

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 11:00:00 -0000

The day before President Joe Biden took the oath of office, the U.S. passed another grim milestone: 400,000 Covid deaths. Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel talks with health reporter Alice Miranda Ollstein about how Biden plans to overhaul the federal pandemic response and speed up vaccine distribution.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters. And subscribe to our other newsletter POLITICO Future Pulse, looking at where health care and technology intersect.

Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch and produces Pulse Check.
Alice Miranda Ollstein is a health care reporter.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

Biden team fears rocky transition may have revealed only `tip of the iceberg': https://www.politico.com/news/2021/01/20/biden-staff-takeover-government-460600
Biden pledges, once more, to lead America away from dystopia: https://www.politico.com/news/2021/01/20/biden-inauguration-america-dystopia-460840

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Goodbye, Dan Diamond

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 11:00:00 -0000

After five years on the health beat — and at the helm of Pulse Check — Dan Diamond is leaving POLITICO. (But don't worry, you can still follow his reporting at The Washington Post!) Dan and Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel look back at some of Dan's biggest stories and trace the past few years of health policy to today's coronavirus response. But first, Dan gets a going away present.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters. And subscribe to our other newsletter POLITICO Future Pulse, looking at where health care and technology intersect.

Dan Diamond is host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

Check out some of Dan Diamond's top POLITICO reporting:

Trump team failed to follow NSC's pandemic playbook: https://www.politico.com/news/2020/03/25/trump-coronavirus-national-security-council-149285
`We want them infected`: Trump appointee demanded `herd immunity` strategy, emails reveal: https://www.politico.com/news/2020/12/16/trump-appointee-demanded-herd-immunity-strategy-446408
'It's like every red flag': Trump-ordered HHS ad blitz raises alarms: https://www.politico.com/news/2020/09/25/trump-hhs-ads-coronavirus-421957
How Trump warped HHS long before Covid-19: https://www.politico.com/news/2020/12/31/how-trump-warped-hhs-452964
How we found Tom Price's private jets: https://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2017/10/04/how-we-found-tom-prices-private-jets-215680
Trump challenges Native Americans' historical standing: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/04/22/trump-native-americans-historical-standing-492794
How 100,000 Pacific Islanders got their health care back: https://www.politico.com/news/2021/01/01/marshall-islands-health-care-453215

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What a Democratic Senate means for Covid

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 11:15:00 -0000

Democrats have won the two Georgia runoff elections, taking control of both chambers of Congress and the White House. POLITICO's Dan Diamond talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about what that could mean for the nation's coronavirus response. But first, reflecting on Wednesday’s riots at the U.S. Capitol.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters.

Dan Diamond is host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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The vaccines are here!

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 11:15:00 -0000

It's the week we've all been waiting for: The first round of coronavirus vaccines are finally being given to frontline health workers. Host Dan Diamond talks with health reporter Rachel Roubein and Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel what sort of turbulence we can expect as states try to rollout vaccinations to the general public. But first: Will Prince Harry and Meghan Markle come on the pod?

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters.

Washington lawmakers are navigating an ethical minefield on who gets shots first.
President-elect Joe Biden is starting to counter President Donald Trump’s messaging on vaccines.

Dan Diamond is host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Rachel Roubein is a health reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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Introducing ... The Biden Health Team

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 11:15:00 -0000

There were some surprises and lots of twists along the way, but the top picks for President-Elect Joe Biden's health team are here. Host Dan Diamond talks with Biden White House reporter Tyler Pager and Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about what the selections could mean for the nation's Covid response. But first: Dan and Tyler take a trip to Vegas.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters. And subscribe to our latest newsletter POLITICO Future Pulse, looking at where health care and technology intersect.

Dan Diamond is host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Tyler Pager is a White House correspondent for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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The President, the President-Elect, and the Pandemic

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 11:15:00 -0000

One pandemic, two White Houses — and messages that don't always align. Host Dan Diamond talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about how Trump's and Biden's teams are working together and what it's like covering a split-screen government. But first: Who would play Dan and Jeremy in a totally original Hollywood blockbuster that involves cloning?

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters. And subscribe to our latest newsletter POLITICO Future Pulse, looking at where health care and technology intersect.

Dan Diamond is host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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The angel or the devil?

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 10:15:00 -0000

Which do you want first, the good news or the bad news? Host Dan Diamond talks with health reporter Adam Cancryn and Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about how some of the best signs for returning to normalcy — like effective vaccines and at-home testing — are emerging just as we enter what could be the most dangerous phase of the pandemic. But first: If Dan were sitting on your shoulder giving you advice, would he be an angel or a devil?

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters. And subscribe to our latest newsletter POLITICO Future Pulse, looking at where health care and technology intersect.

Dan Diamond is host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Adam Cancryn is a health care reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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Your questions about the Covid vaccine, answered

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 10:15:00 -0000

Finally, some good pandemic news! Host Dan Diamond discusses the promising preliminary data on Pfizer's coronavirus vaccine with health reporter Sarah Owermohle and Jeremy Siegel — and answers some of the biggest questions you might have about it. But first: Sarah's cat stops by with some breaking mews.

Mentioned on the show:

Pfizer touted promising results from its coronavirus vaccine.
President Donald Trump's refusal to concede to President-elect Joe Biden could create added risks.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters. And subscribe to our latest newsletter POLITICO Future Pulse, looking at where health care and technology intersect.

Dan Diamond is host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Sarah Owermohle is a health care reporter for POLITICO covering drug policy and vaccines.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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Did Covid even matter for the election?

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 10:15:00 -0000

Candidates talked nonstop about coronavirus on the campaign trail. But how much did the health crisis influence the vote? As Joe Biden inches toward a slim victory with a divided Senate, host Dan Diamond talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about how Covid played — or didn't play — into the results.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters.

Dan Diamond is host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch and produced this episode.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO Audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO Audio.

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Presenting... Global Translations: Can we make enough vaccine?

Sun, 01 Nov 2020 10:00:00 -0000

"Pulse Check" presents a special episode of POLITICO's new podcast "Global Translations".

Once there is a working Covid vaccine, manufacturers across the globe will need to scale up production to produce billions of doses — meaning billions of pharmaceutical-grade glass vials, rubber stoppers, packaging, storage and refrigeration. In a special airing of POLITICO's Global Translations podcast, hosts Luiza Savage and Ryan Heath look at the challenges of making enough vaccines for the world.

Subscribe to the Global Translations podcast and read more in the Global Translations newsletter.

Luiza Savage is the host of "Global Translations"
Ryan Heath is a host of "Global Translations"
Annie Rees is a producer for POLITICO Audio
Kara Tabor is a producer for POLITICO Audio
Jenny Ament is the senior producer for POLITICO Audio
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO Audio

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What you need to know about Trump's and Biden's health policies

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 09:15:00 -0000

It's an election that will be defined by health policy, particularly how the two candidates plan to tackle the coronavirus pandemic. Host Dan Diamond talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about how President Trump and Joe Biden differ on their Covid responses and other key health issues.

Sign up for Global Pulse, a new weekly newsletter about the global health agenda. And stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters.

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A global pandemic. A scattered response.

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 09:15:00 -0000

As Asian countries return to semi-normal life and European nations reimpose lockdown measures, the U.S. continues to reopen — despite an alarming surge in cases. POLITICO's Dan Diamond talks with Global Pulse author Carmen Paun and Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about the differing approaches to the Covid outbreak. But first: If you could choose anywhere in the world, where would you hide out for the duration of the pandemic?

Sign up for Global Pulse, a new weekly newsletter about the global health agenda. And stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters.

Dan Diamond is host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Carmen Paun is a global health reporter and the author of the Global Pulse newsletter.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch and produced this episode.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO Audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO Audio.

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The Most Dramatic Episode of Pulse Check...EVER

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 09:15:00 -0000

This week, the NBA wrapped up a championship and “The Bachelorette” launched a new season. What did the two events have in common? Meticulous planning for coronavirus safety. Host Dan Diamond talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about how the White House's own protocols stack up with what we've seen on TV. But first: What would it take to win Dan's rose? (Hint: ample social distancing)

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters. And subscribe to our latest newsletter POLITICO Future Pulse, looking at where health care and technology intersect.

Washington Post reporter Ben Golliver's fond farewell to the NBA bubble.

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A $300 million ad blitz from HHS

Thu, 01 Oct 2020 09:15:00 -0000

The U.S. health department made a wish list of more than 30 celebrities including Garth Brooks, Taylor Swift and Billy Joel to appear in their ad campaign to "inspire hope" about coronavirus, but they ended up with only Dennis Quaid, CeCe Winans and Hasidic singer Shulem Lemmer. Host Dan Diamond talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about HHS' latest PR blunder. But first, yep, Dan did call Garth Brooks' home phone for this story.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters. And subscribe to our latest newsletter POLITICO Future Pulse, looking at where health care and technology intersect.

The ad blitz has sputtered for weeks behind the scenes, Dan scooped.
It’s also raised red flags after funding was abruptly taken from CDC and the business partner of HHS’ spokesperson was tapped to do the videos.
POLITICO's Daniel Lippman first put a spotlight on the campaign.

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Sen. Chris Murphy on Covid and the courts: "This is another repeal debate"

Thu, 24 Sep 2020 09:30:18 -0000

The Democratic senator joined POLITICO's podcast to discuss what administration officials have told him about the coronavirus response, and why he thinks talking about the Affordable Care Act is the best way to stop Republicans from naming a new Supreme Court justice.

Murphy in February warned that administration officials weren't taking the virus' threat seriously.
Murphy was among the senators who grilled Trump administration officials like Dr. Anthony Fauci and CDC Director Robert Redfield on Wednesday about the Covid-19 response.
Democrats like Murphy have argued that if President Trump successfully appoints another Supreme Court justice, the Affordable Care Act is doomed.

Dan Diamond is the host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Sen. Chris Murphy is a U.S. Democratic senator for Connecticut.
Annie Rees is a producer for POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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Caputo out.

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 09:00:03 -0000

HHS spokesman Michael Caputo says he's taking a leave of absence for health reasons. Host Dan Diamond talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about the latest turbulence within Trump's health department and his own reporting on Caputo's rocky tenure. But first — isn't Dan supposed to be on vacation?

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters. And subscribe to our latest newsletter POLITICO Future Pulse, looking at where health care and technology intersect.

POLITICO breaks news on HHS chief Caputo taking health leave
Caputo's team interfered with CDC's famed Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Reports, Dan scooped
An aide to Caputo also tried to muzzle infectious-disease expert Tony Fauci, POLITICO's Sarah Owermohle scooped

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A pandemic, a vaccine and an election. What could go wrong?

Thu, 10 Sep 2020 09:00:09 -0000

Is Trump rushing a vaccine to help boost support ahead of November? Are Democrats purposefully undermining confidence in his administration's public health efforts? Host Dan Diamond talks with health reporter Sarah Owermohle and Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about the politicization of the vaccine race. But first, what do Dan, Sarah and Jeremy have in common with the pandemic?

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters. And subscribe to our latest newsletter POLITICO Future Pulse, looking at where health care and technology intersect.

Dan Diamond is host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Sarah Owermohle is a health care reporter for POLITICO covering drug policy and vaccines.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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Will Covid define the election?

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 09:30:12 -0000

The election is two months away, and Covid is still front in center on the campaign trail. Host Dan Diamond talks with health care reporter Dan Goldberg and Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about how the pandemic could influence voters — and whether the Trump administration will be able to prevent another surge ahead of Election Day. But first: We've got ourselves a double-Dan situation, don't we?

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters. And subscribe to our latest newsletter POLITICO Future Pulse, looking at where health care and technology intersect.

Dan Diamond is host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Dan Goldberg is a health care reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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Leader of the Task Force

Thu, 27 Aug 2020 09:00:16 -0000

In February, Vice President Mike Pence took the reins of the nation's Covid response as head of the White House Coronavirus Task Force. Six months later, host Dan Diamond talks with health reporter Adam Cancryn and Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about Pence's rocky tenure — and how it meshes with the GOP's messaging on the pandemic at the RNC this week. But first, Dan and Adam get a visit from future Jeremy.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters. And subscribe to our latest newsletter POLITICO Future Pulse, looking at where health care and technology intersect.

MENTIONED ON THIS SHOW:

How Mike Pence slowed the coronavirus response

Dan Diamond is host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Adam Cancryn is a health care reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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Cut health funding for the military? Biden and Trump agree: Nah

Tue, 25 Aug 2020 11:50:37 -0000

It's a story that made waves across the Capitol: The Pentagon was considering cutting more than $2 billion from military health care programs. Then both Biden and Trump — and a slough of lawmakers — cried foul. Host Dan Diamond and Pentagon reporter Lara Seligman tell Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel how they broke the story.

Dan Diamond is the host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Lara Seligman covers the Pentagon for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host of POLITICO Dispatch and produced this episode.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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A new VP candidate with old healthcare baggage

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 09:00:14 -0000

Host Dan Diamond talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about Joe Biden's historic announcement that Kamala Harris will be his running mate — and what her history on health care means for the November election. But first, sure, Dan did get to talk with Dr. Fauci on last week's show ... but that doesn't mean he didn't miss having Jeremy around.

Dan Diamond is the host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Jeremy Siegel is a host of POLITICO Dispatch and produced this episode.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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Dr. Anthony Fauci: Waging the COVID War with `Realistic Optimism`

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 09:00:28 -0000

Dr. Anthony Fauci, the country’s leading infectious-disease expert, joins host Dan Diamond to talk about the state of the coronavirus outbreak, the progress on vaccines and testing stumbles, and how he's protecting his own mental health during the crisis.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters. And subscribe to our latest newsletter POLITICO Future Pulse, looking at where health care and technology intersect.

MENTIONED ON THIS SHOW

Check out Dan Diamond's accompanying story on Dr. Fauci at politico.com.
Americans trust Fauci far more than President Trump and other individuals when it comes to endorsing a vaccine, according to the latest POLITICO/Morning Consult poll.

Dan Diamond is the host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Dr. Anthony Fauci is the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
Kara Tabor produced this episode.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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Groundhog Day, Hydroxychloroquine-Style

Thu, 30 Jul 2020 09:00:04 -0000

On March 27th, host Dan Diamond and POLITICO's Sarah Owermohle wrote a story together about how hydroxychloroquine was dividing President Trump and his health officials. Four months later ... they're reporting the same story. Déjà vu, anyone? Dan talks with Sarah and Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about why Trump keeps repeating himself — despite mounting evidence that says the drug is ineffective as a coronavirus treatment.

Trump continues to tout hydroxychloroquine as a coronavirus treatment despite evidence it doesn’t work.
Pharma companies canceled on a meeting with the president in protest of his executive order.

Dan Diamond is the host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Sarah Owermohle covers drug policy and the industry for POLITICO Pro.
Jeremy Siegel is a host of POLITICO Dispatch and produced this episode.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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Is telehealth here to stay?

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 09:00:09 -0000

Host Dan Diamond talks with health care reporter Mohana Ravindranath and Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about how the Covid outbreak is reshaping the telehealth industry. But first, Jeremy (almost literally) runs into a health care celebrity.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters. And subscribe to our latest newsletter POLITICO Future Pulse, looking at where health care and technology intersect.

MENTIONED ON THIS SHOW

Check out Mohana Ravindranath's piece on telemedicine's future in light of the coronavirus.

Dan Diamond is the host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Mohana Ravindranath covers health technology for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host of POLITICO Dispatch and produced this episode.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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The health department's $5M soap opera

Thu, 16 Jul 2020 09:00:08 -0000

Host Dan Diamond talks with health reporter Adam Cancryn and Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about the latest twist in POLITICO's investigation of the health department. But first, what should Dan and Adam call their new soap opera about HHS?

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters. And subscribe to our latest newsletter POLITICO Future Pulse, looking at where health care and technology intersect.

MENTIONED ON THIS SHOW

The HHS inspector general found that a top appointee's publicity contracts broke federal rules.
Check out Adam and Dan's original 2019 story, which kicked off their investigation.

Dan Diamond is the host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Adam Cancryn is a health care reporter for POLITICO Pro.
Jeremy Siegel is a host of POLITICO Dispatch and produced this episode.
Annie Rees is a producer for POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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Coronavirus: 6 months in, 6 months out

Thu, 09 Jul 2020 09:00:31 -0000

Host Dan Diamond and Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel look back at the past 6 months of the coronavirus pandemic — and discuss what's next for 2020. But first, Dan puts a damper on Jeremy's 2021 wedding plans.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters.

MENTIONED ON THIS SHOW

CDC official Nancy Knight joined Pulse Check last year to discuss her team of “disease detectives”

Dan Diamond is the host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Jeremy Siegel is a host of POLITICO Dispatch and produced this episode.
Annie Rees is a producer for POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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Bolton, China and Coronavirus

Thu, 25 Jun 2020 09:00:15 -0000

John Bolton's newly-released memoir has made waves across Washington, D.C., with explosive allegations about how President Trump handled foreign policy. But what does Bolton's experience in the White House tell us about the Trump administration's coronavirus response? Host Dan Diamond talks with Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about how Trump's relationship with China's President Xi has influenced his handling of the pandemic — and how coronavirus has reshaped America's standing on the world stage.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters.

MENTIONED ON THIS SHOW

Bolton's memoir sheds light on the president's Covid response

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Operation Vaccine: Warp Speed Ahead?

Thu, 18 Jun 2020 09:00:05 -0000

Hydroxychloroquine is out. Dexamethasone is in. Host Dan Diamond talks with health reporter Sarah Overmohle and Dispatch's Jeremy Siegel about the elusive search for a coronavirus treatment — and the latest on the high-speed race for a vaccine.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters.

MENTIONED ON THIS SHOW

FDA ended its controversial emergency authorization of hydroxychloroquine this week.
The hydroxychloroquine episode sparked concerns that Trump will politically pressure vaccine developers, too.

Dan Diamond is the host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Sarah Owermohle is a health care reporter for POLITICO covering drug policy and the drug industry.
Jeremy Siegel is a host of POLITICO Dispatch and produced this episode.
Annie Rees is a producer for POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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U.S. Surgeon General: George Floyd "could have been me"

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 09:00:20 -0000

U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams joins host Dan Diamond to discuss America's dual pandemics: the coronavirus crisis and systemic racism in the health care system, and how the killing of George Floyd is affecting him personally.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters.

MENTIONED ON THIS SHOW

Some public health experts are encouraging Americans to join the mass protests over Floyd's death, despite social distancing risks.
Covid-19 cases are on the rise in many states.

Dan Diamond is host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Jerome Adams is U.S. Surgeon General.
Annie Rees is a producer for POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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Coronavirus is a magnifying glass on racial inequity

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 09:00:01 -0000

Host Dan Diamond talks with Samantha Artiga — who heads up the Kaiser Family Foundation’s work on health disparities — on the intersection of the coronavirus pandemic and protests on racial inequality spurned by the death of George Floyd.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters.

MENTIONED ON THIS SHOW

Health disparities are a symptom of broader social and economic inequities, Samantha writes.

Dan Diamond is host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Samantha Artiga is Director of the Disparities Policy Project at the Kaiser Family Foundation.
Annie Rees is a producer for POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.

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Coronavirus: A grim milestone

Thu, 28 May 2020 09:00:22 -0000

Host Dan Diamond talks with Nightly author Renuka Rayasam and Dispatch Host Jeremy Siegel on the contrasts between national and regional responses to Covid-19. More and more states are re-opening even as the national death toll mounts to more than 100,000.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters.

MENTIONED ON THIS SHOW

U.S. coronavirus death toll tops 100,000 as Trump pushes to reopen

Dan Diamond is host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Renuka Rayasam is an author of POLITICO Nightly.
Annie Rees is a producer for POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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Coronavirus: Some members of the National Guard face a 'hard stop'

Thu, 21 May 2020 09:00:03 -0000

Health care reporter Alice Miranda Ollstein and guest host Jeremy Siegel dig into Alice's story on the 'hard stop' that 40,000 National Guard members currently face. The Trump administration’s order currently ends deployments on June 24, just one day before thousands would qualify for education and retirement benefits.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters.

MENTIONED ON THIS SHOW

'Hard stop': States could lose National Guard virus workers

Dan Diamond is host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Alice Miranda Ollstein is a health care reporter for POLITICO.
Annie Rees is a producer for POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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Coronavirus: Rick Bright's explosive whistleblower claim

Thu, 14 May 2020 02:45:11 -0000

Host Dan Diamond, health reporter Sarah Owermohle and POLITICO Dispatch host Jeremy Siegel look at Dr. Rick Bright, the ousted vaccine expert turned whistleblower testifying Thursday in Congress.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters.

MENTIONED ON THIS SHOW

Colleagues painted a mixed picture of the ousted vaccine chief
A congressional ally is chairing Thursday's must-watch hearing
Bright said he was among the health officials alarmed by President Donald Trump's push of unproven drugs
The malaria drug touted by Trump has shown no benefit in fighting Covid-19

Dan Diamond is host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Sarah Owermohle is a healthcare reporter for POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Annie Rees is a producer for POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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Coronavirus: Inside the White House's race for more tests

Thu, 07 May 2020 09:00:11 -0000

Host Dan Diamond and POLITICO Dispatch host Jeremy Siegel look at the Trump administration's efforts to ramp up testing to get the country to re-open...and grade how well Jared Kushner's team has done.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters.

MENTIONED ON THIS SHOW

Kushner assembled a crash team to address coronavirus problems, Dan first reported.·
By early April, it was clear that many major initiatives were being driven by Kushner's group.·
The team now says its work, including a 96-hour project, helped reverse the nation's testing problems.
Trump touted reopening. Privately, his team sounded alarms.

Dan Diamond is host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Annie Rees is a producer for POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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Coronavirus: The rocky road at HHS

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 09:00:09 -0000

Host Dan Diamond, health reporter Adam Cancryn and POLITICO Dispatch host Jeremy Siegel discuss how the dysfunction at the agency of Health and Human Services happened at the worst possible time... and how HHS is being sidelined in the current coronavirus response.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters.

MENTIONED ON THIS SHOW

White House weighed plan to replace Azar
Trump rejects reports, affirms support for Azar
White House installed a Trump loyalist as HHS spokesperson
Inside HHS after 100 days of Covid

Dan Diamond is host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Adam Cancryn is a health care reporter and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Annie Rees is a producer for POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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Coronavirus: Why Surgeon General Jerome Adams was sidelined

Thu, 23 Apr 2020 09:00:23 -0000

Host Dan Diamond, Maya King and Jeremy Siegel discuss new CDC data that shows that Covid-19 is affecting black Americans at at higher rates and how the Trump administration — and specifically, Surgeon General Jerome Adams — are responding to criticism.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters.

MENTIONED ON THIS SHOW

POLITICO detailed how Jerome Adams was sidelined earlier this week.
Black doctors blast 'woefully anemic' data on minority coronavirus cases.

Dan Diamond is host of POLITICO Pulse Check and author of the POLITICO Pulse newsletter.
Maya King is the Campaign 2020 reporting fellow at POLITICO.
Jeremy Siegel is a host for POLITICO Dispatch.
Annie Rees is a producer for POLITICO audio.
Jenny Ament is the senior producer of POLITICO audio.
Irene Noguchi is the executive producer of POLITICO audio.

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Coronavirus: Inside America's two-decade failure to prepare

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 09:00:03 -0000

Host Dan Diamond and Dispatch host Jeremy Siegel examine how previous presidential administrations prepared — or didn’t — for the possibility of a pandemic… and how those actions led to the crisis today.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters.

MENTIONED ON THIS SHOW

Dan Diamond talked to top officials from three administrations for his deep investigation tracing the disease preparedness plans over the last 20 years.

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Coronavirus: Trump versus his health officials

Thu, 09 Apr 2020 09:00:16 -0000

Host Dan Diamond and White House reporter Nancy Cook talk about President Donald Trump versus ... everyone else in a conversation with Dispatch host Jeremy Siegel.

The White House's coronavirus strategy has stirred rebukes from career health officials. Meanwhile, Trump attacked the HHS inspector general after the watchdog's survey on coronavirus readiness.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters.

MENTIONED ON THIS SHOW

Dan Diamond and Nancy Cook broke down Trump's 'Hail Mary' drug push rattling his health team.
Brianna Ehley and Alice Miranda Ollstein detailed the HHS watchdog report about hospitals' lack of coronavirus readiness — a report that stirred Trump's anger.

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Coronavirus: Behind-the-scenes on the pandemic playbook

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 09:00:15 -0000

Dan Diamond and Nahal Toosi describe the process of getting the secret "pandemic playbook" from sources — while keeping a safe six-feet social distance, of course.

Plus, Dispatch host Jeremy Siegel asks Dan and Nahal about the shadow coronavirus task force being headed by Jared Kushner.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters.

MENTIONED ON THIS SHOW:

Dan Diamond and Nahal Toosi broke the story of the NSC's pandemic playbook — a document the Trump administration largely ignored.

Jared Kushner has emerged as a central figure coordinating the coronavirus response.

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Coronavirus: One-on-one with Scott Gottlieb

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 14:35:07 -0000

"We can't afford to let this happen again," said the former FDA commissioner, offering advice on next steps.

Dan Diamond sits down with Gottlieb, who's become one of the most prominent voices publicly on coronavirus while privately advising the Trump administration on its response.

Gottlieb discussed his new travel routine (starts at the 1:15 mark), the tragedy unfolding in New York City (4:15), the next cities he thinks are at risk, (11:30), his aggressive warnings on coronavirus (16:10) and his advice to the administration and whether he'd go back inside (23:45).

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters.

MENTIONED ON THIS SHOW

Writing in the Wall Street Journal, Gottlieb and Luciana Borio on Jan. 28 urged leaders to "act now to prevent an American epidemic."

Gottlieb and fellow former FDA Commissioner Mark McClellan this week issued a road map to combat COVID-19.

POLITICO called Gottlieb "the shadow coronavirus czar" — a term he disputed.

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Coronavirus: Over by Easter? Not likely.

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 09:00:07 -0000

Dan Diamond and Dispatch host Jeremy Siegel provide a truth check on some of President Trump’s most recent claims and tell us where the U.S. coronavirus outbreak is heading.

Stay up-to-date on the latest Covid-19 news by subscribing to the POLITICO Nightly and POLITICO Pulse newsletters.

MENTIONED ON THIS SHOW:

Dan detailed Trump's focus on short-term decision-making and the risk to long-term coronavirus planning.

Health officials want the president to double down on public health interventions, not lighten up, POLITICO's Adam Cancryn and Nancy Cook report.

"If it were possible to wave a magic wand and make all Americans freeze in place for 14 days while sitting six feet apart, epidemiologists say, the whole epidemic would sputter to a halt," Donald G. McNeil Jr. writes at the New York Times.

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Coronavirus: Inside Trump's response

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 23:41:59 -0000

U.S. health officials have told Americans to begin preparing for the coronavirus outbreak. What's the current risk to the United States — and what is the Trump administration doing to protect us?

David Lim joined Dan Diamond to discuss the state of public health, Trump's response and POLITICO's own reporting about the spreading outbreak.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

David was first to report that problems with CDC lab tests were delaying efforts to expand U.S. screening for coronavirus. In a follow-up story, David reported that the CDC wasn't ready to detect stealth coronavirus spread — hours before a new case of "unknown origin" was announced in California, after testing had been delayed for days.

Dan reported on the growing scrutiny on whether CDC was adequately prepared to fight the virus and on how the Trump administration was increasingly seeing the outbreak as the biggest threat to the president's re-election.

Dan also joined POLITICO's Nancy Cook to scoop that the White House was considering a shake-up to the coronavirus task force, hours before President Donald Trump announced that Vice President Mike Pence would oversee efforts instead of HHS Secretary Alex Azar.

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Exit interview: Rebekah Gee on reshaping Louisiana's health program

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 10:00:13 -0000

As Louisiana health secretary, Rebekah Gee oversaw Medicaid expansion, struck a novel drug-pricing deal — and faced constant Republican attacks over her pro-abortion-rights record — before resigning last month. Gee sat down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond to reflect on her four years leading Louisiana's health department and what she's learned about public health and politics.

After the break, POLITICO's Alice Miranda Ollstein walks through the case previously known as June Medical v. Gee, one of the most anticipated Supreme Court cases this year, which could reshape abortion access in America.

REFERENCED ON THE SHOW

Gee oversaw Louisiana's Medicaid expansion, which has enrolled more than 400,000 people, amid criticism from Republicans.

Gee also hammered out a novel "subscription" model to rein in spending on Hepatitis C drugs.

A New York Times op-ed writer named Gee as one of five people who "spread hope" in 2019.

Gee split with her boss, Gov. John Bel Edwards, over whether to allow a proton beam imaging center.

Chosen as Louisiana health secretary in 2016, Gee faced persistent criticism from anti-abortion groups.

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The Wuhan coronavirus: Understanding the threat and government response

Thu, 30 Jan 2020 10:00:09 -0000

More than 100 people are dead from a new virus that originated in Wuhan, China, and thousands of others around the world are infected as the outbreak spreads quickly. How worried should we be?

Chris Meekins, who served as a top emergency-response official at HHS, joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to explain what we know about the new coronavirus and how his former HHS team fights viral outbreaks like this one.

MENTIONED ON THIS SHOW

The health department has warned that the virus is a threat but stressed that Americans should not be worried about their personal safety.

U.S. officials have praised China's response on the coronavirus outbreak — up to a point.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren, campaigning for Democrats' presidential nomination, released a new plan to fight infectious disease.

The U.S. government has a secret stockpile of drugs and supplies meant to save us in a bioterror attack, Lena Sun wrote last year in the Washington Post.

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Did Trump just solve the vaping crisis?

Thu, 16 Jan 2020 10:00:02 -0000

Sarah Owermohle, who's led POLITICO's coverage of the teen vaping epidemic, and Paul Demko, who edits the Pro Cannabis team, joined Dan Diamond to review the recent outbreak of vaping-linked illness, President Donald Trump's resulting plan to crack down e-cigarettes, how vaping and marijuana are playing in the 2020 campaign and whether young Americans remain at higher risk of nicotine addiction.

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Six things missing in the Medicare-for-All debate

Thu, 12 Dec 2019 10:00:04 -0000

POLITICO's Alice Miranda Ollstein and Adam Cancryn join Dan Diamond to discuss what's getting missed in the presidential debates about Medicare-for-all, from the likely Senate math in 2021 to the complications posed by Obamacare repeal.

The PBS NewsHour/POLITICO presidential primary debate will be held on Thursday Dec. 19 and also televised on CNN.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Alice's story with Alex Thompson and Holly Otterbein about how Medicare-for-all proposals caused trouble for candidates like Elizabeth Warren and Kamala Harris.

Adam's story about the Partnership for America's Health Care Future, the industry-backed group working to kill Medicare expansion.

Dan's story about how the Obama administration weakened the Affordable Care Act's cost-cutting measures to preserve jobs during the recession.

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Inside the fight shaking HHS, with Adam Cancryn and Rachana Pradhan

Thu, 05 Dec 2019 01:34:59 -0000

HHS Secretary Alex Azar and CMS Administrator Seema Verma are the two most important health officials in the Humphrey building — but they've spent months disagreeing on policy, personnel and priorities. The longstanding cold war between them has heated up amid questions over Verma's use of outside public relations contractors.

On this episode of "Pulse Check," POLITICO's Dan Diamond joins colleagues Adam Cancryn and Rachana Pradhan to discuss the team's recent reporting on the Azar-Verma relationship, what it means for the Trump administration's policies and where it's all headed.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Verma's faced congressional inquiries and an inspector general probe following a POLITICO report that she directed millions of federal dollars toward PR communications contracts that benefited her personal brand.

Azar and Verma's battles have affected big ideas — like the administration's plans to replace Obamacare — and smaller moments like who gets to announce new regulations, POLITICO reported last week.

Azar also has clashed with the White House — and specifically Joe Grogan, the domestic policy council chief — over policy ideas.

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Saving the VA, Chapter 4: Sen. Jon Tester on Congress' role

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 10:00:02 -0000

In the fourth episode of POLITICO's miniseries on the VA, "Pulse Check" and POLITICO's Arthur Allen sit down with Sen. Jon Tester, the ranking member of the Senate committee overseeing the VA.

Tester walks through how lawmakers have tailored legislation to boost the VA, where he thinks senators should push on oversight and what worries him about the agency's direction.

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Saving the VA, Chapter 3: The patient experience, with J.R. Wilson

Fri, 15 Nov 2019 10:00:11 -0000

In the third episode of POLITICO's miniseries on the VA, "Pulse Check" and POLITICO's Arthur Allen sit down with a permanently disabled veteran who relies on the agency.

Today, J.R. Wilson talks about his experience after getting injured during an Army parachuting accident, how he's relied solely on VA services to help with his recovery and his concern that privatizing the agency would harm its specialized quality of care.

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Saving the VA, Chapter 2: Leading the agency, with former Secretary David Shulkin

Wed, 13 Nov 2019 10:00:14 -0000

In the second episode of POLITICO's miniseries on the VA, "Pulse Check" and POLITICO's Arthur Allen delve deeper into the challenges of the long-troubled agency.

Today, former VA Secretary David Shulkin discusses his rocky tenure leading the agency under President Donald Trump, how he he tried to implement changes before being fired and what he sees as the biggest risks to the VA's future.

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Saving the VA, Chapter 1: Caring for veterans, with Andrea Plate

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 10:00:05 -0000

On this Veterans Day, "Pulse Check" and POLITICO's Arthur Allen kick off a four-episode miniseries: what does the future of the VA look like?

Today, we talk to former VA social worker Andrea Plate, author of the upcoming book, "Madness: In the Trenches of America’s Troubled Department of Veterans Affairs," about the challenges of caring for veterans amid funding crunches, structural problems and a battle for the agency's soul.

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Ebola, flu — and mudslides?

Thu, 31 Oct 2019 01:39:53 -0000

When there's an Ebola epidemic — or a natural disaster — that could threaten the world, a team at CDC springs into action: the Division of Global Health Protection, which deploys disease detectives and helps stand up emergency operations to fight the problem.

Capt. Nancy Knight, MD, joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to debrief on global health crises and the world's response, part of a special pop-up podcast at the Milken Institute's "Future of Health" summit.

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The fight to fix organ donation, with Greg Segal

Wed, 30 Oct 2019 00:28:40 -0000

An organ donation can save a life — or at least that's the message hammered home across public health, in advertisements or even when getting a driver's license.

But why does the U.S. system fail to recover so many transplantable organs? And why are some donated organs even thrown away?

Greg Segal of ORGANIZE joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss the current problems and the promising future for organ donation, part of a special pop-up podcast at the Milken Institute's "Future of Health" summit.

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Meet John Marty — the "Bernie Sanders of Minnesota"

Thu, 24 Oct 2019 09:00:08 -0000

John Marty ran for state Senate in Minnesota in the 1980s because he wanted to achieve social change. More than 30 years later, single-payer health care has become his defining mission — and Marty says that his local battle has been supercharged by Bernie Sanders and the national Medicare for All movement.

POLITICO's Dan Diamond looked at the political dynamics around Medicare for All and then sat down with Sen. Marty to discuss his policy, strategy and the difficult trade-offs behind single-payer.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Marty has spent years pushing for what he calls the Minnesota Health Plan.

MinnPost wrote about Marty's "lonely quest" to achieve single-payer health care — a decade ago.

The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan advocacy organization, has thrown its support behind Medicare for All.

The Minnesota Nurses Association has pushed for single-payer health care and specifically backed Marty's bill.

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When immigration and health care collide, with Mark Greenberg and Scott Lloyd

Thu, 17 Oct 2019 09:00:04 -0000

President Donald Trump has repeatedly relied on HHS to help carry out his sweeping immigration agenda, and a new order that would limit visas to people who aren't "health care burdens" could be the latest dramatic change.

Mark Greenberg, who served as the acting assistant secretary for children and families during the Obama administration, sits down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss HHS' role in immigration and why he's so worried about Trump's recent order (starts at the 6:00 mark).

Then Scott Lloyd, the Trump appointee who led the HHS refugee office, joins Dan to discuss his experience after the administration began separating migrant families and thousands of children ended up in his office's custody (starts at the 25:45 mark).

REFERENCED ON THE PODCAST

The Migration Policy Institute predicted that Trump's recent proclamation linking health care and insurance could block as many as two-thirds of green card applicants.

Career health officials have raised concerns that Trump's latest order on immigration and health care could be illegal.

Watchdogs like GAO and the HHS inspector general have found that family separations began months before the Trump administration officially announced the policy.

HHS Secretary Alex Azar emerged as the face of the family-separation crisis last summer, even though HHS didn't lead the policy.

House Democrats and watchdog groups have pressed Lloyd over his decisions and testimony.

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One-on-one with Adam Boehler

Thu, 03 Oct 2019 09:00:12 -0000

Adam Boehler took the reins of the powerful CMS Innovation Center in early 2018, pledging to help shift the U.S. health care system away from fee-for-service. Eighteen months later, he's leaving the agency, having launched a series of payment pilots that Boehler vows will lead to dramatic changes.

Boehler sat down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss why he originally took the job, how he evaluated possible payment reforms and why he thinks the Trump administration didn't fear "sacred cows" in health care.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Boehler founded multiple companies before joining the government, including Landmark Health, which focused on serving the sickest patients.

Boehler helped steer major payment pilots at the innovation center, including an effort to reshape kidney care.

The CMS Innovation Center could be eliminated if the Affordable Care Act is struck down in court.

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Is this the next big change to Medicaid?

Thu, 19 Sep 2019 09:00:17 -0000

"Block grants for Medicaid" have been a conservative pipe dream and a progressive bogeyman for decades. Now Tennessee's GOP governor is moving forward with a plan to turn block-grant dreams into reality — if Trump officials and other lawmakers give permission.

First, Joan Alker of Georgetown's Center for Children and Families reviews how Trump officials and GOP leaders have changed the Medicaid program, why she blames the Trump administration for a recent spike in uninsured kids and why she's so worried about the Tennessee proposal. (Starts at the 1:55 mark.)

Then POLITICO's Rachana Pradhan joins Dan to review the policy and politics of block grants and how the Trump administration is sending mixed-messages to Republican states. (Starts at the 30:00 mark.)

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Joan first appeared on "PULSE CHECK" in February 2017, to preview Seema Verma's possible tenure at CMS.

Children's uninsurance rose in 2018, the first uptick in years and a concerning change that Joan and colleagues predicted.

Current and former Trump administration officials — like Brian Blase and CMS Administrator Seema Verma — have argued that ineligible Americans are wrongly enrolling in Medicaid.

The Trump administration has steadily pursued a plan to allow states to seek block grants for Medicaid.

Tennessee had wanted to be the first state to win approval for a Medicaid block grant. Its GOP leaders rolled out their plan this week.

Law professor Nick Bagley argues that Tennessee's plan wouldn't be legal.

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What will (and won't) happen this fall. Plus: inside the launch of POLITICO Pro Cannabis

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 09:00:05 -0000

Washington is coming back to life after the summer, and POLITICO's Adam Cancryn and Sarah Owermohle join Dan Diamond to give their predictions on suprise billing legislation, new curbs on vaping, drug pricing reforms, the Trump administration's health plan and other hot-button issues and people to watch. (Starts at the 14:30 mark)

But first, Paul Demko — longtime health reporter and new editor of POLITICO's cannabis team — joins Dan to explain why POLITICO is launching the new team and how he sees the opportunity. (Starts at the 1:20 mark.)

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

POLITICO is launching a free newsletter covering the cannabis industry.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell is driving new tobacco legislation.

President Donald Trump has repeatedly pledged to introduce a health care plan before the elections.

Ways and Means Chairman Richard Neal is facing a primary challenge amid progressive pressure on his health care positions.

Activist Ady Barkan has launched a new video series of interviews with presidential candidates.

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The long shadow of Trump's "public charge" rule

Thu, 22 Aug 2019 09:00:04 -0000

There are millions of legal immigrants who depend on programs like Medicaid — and now, after the Trump administration revamped a nearly 140-year-old immigration rule, there's growing concern that many will drop out.

First, Ted Hesson joins POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss how the new "public charge" rule would work (starts at the 2:00-minute mark), White House official Stephen Miller's role in driving the plan (8:05) and the broader immigration changes underway (12:00).

Then, Dr. Omolara Uwemedimo of Northwell Health explains her background as the daughter of immigrants and her work as a pediatrician (starts at the 17:05-minute mark), how she sees immigrant patients being affected by the new rule (20:45) and her broader observations on how immigration and health care collide (26:00).

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Immigration official Ken Cuccinelli appeared on NPR last week to defend the public charge rule — and twist the inscription on the Statue of Liberty.

The Urban Institute reviewed how the public charge rule could affect immigrants' use of government programs like Medicaid.

The Kaiser Family Foundation also prepared a fact sheet on the rule's impact.

Ted's story about Stephen Miller's close involvement in the public charge rule, complete with Miller's emails.

Ted also broke news about how the State Department's public charge denials have already skyrocketed, a possible precursor to national implementation of the new rule.

Dr. Uwemedimo's op-ed in Newsweek about her family's immigration story and why she's worried about the public charge rule's impact.

Michael Dowling, the CEO of Northwell Health — the largest health care provider in New York — is himself an immigrant from Ireland.

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Gun violence is more than a "mental health crisis"

Thu, 08 Aug 2019 09:00:10 -0000

A pair of mass shootings have renewed the spotlight on the nation's high rate of gun deaths. POLITICO's Dan Diamond reviews why health care groups say that gun violence deaths represent a "public health crisis" — and how GOP congressmen and the current Surgeon General avoid using that term.

Then Dan talks with Amy Barnhorst, a UC Davis psychiatrist who specializes in gun violence research, about her work and legislation intended to reduce deaths (starts at the 3:15 mark), what she makes of recent comments by President Donald Trump and Democratic frontrunner Joe Biden about the role of mental illness and video games (15:45), and how physicians were mobilized by the NRA's "stay in their lane" tweet and what she would advise politicians to do (21:30).

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Dr. Barnhorst's February 2018 New York Times op-ed on why the mental health system shouldn't be responsible for stopping mass shooters.

A Sactown Magazine article looks closer at UC Davis' work on gun violence research.

California's implemented a gun violence restraining order law, devised in part by Dr. Barnhorst.

The president linked gun violence with mental health in a speech on Monday. Biden also decried violent video games as a possible factor.

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Dissecting a debate moment: Sanders, Warren and... Delaney?

Wed, 31 Jul 2019 06:00:22 -0000

"You're wrong" about Medicare-for-all, Sen. Bernie Sanders told former Rep. John Delaney as this week's Democratic debates kicked off — an exchange that set the tone for the first night.

Pulse Check host Dan Diamond joined Scott Bland, host of POLITICO's Nerdcast, to discuss the exchange (and Sen. Elizabeth Warren's comments too) for a bonus crossover episode.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Delaney's "BetterCare" plan, which goes further than some other Democrats' proposals toward ensuring universal coverage.

Warren's rebuke that Democrats need to stop using Republican talking points on health care.

POLITICO's Nerdcast, Pulse Check's sister podcast, looks closer at the political landscape every week.

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Neera Tanden on Medicare Extra, the Democratic primary and Trump's legacy

Fri, 26 Jul 2019 09:00:21 -0000

Neera Tanden is one of the most prominent voices in the Democratic party — and her organization, the Center for American Progress, has been pumping out policy ideas ahead of the 2020 election, helping shape the Democratic primary.

Neera sits down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss CAP's signature Medicare Extra proposal and Democrats' debate over Medicare for All (starts at the 1:00 mark), what she makes of the Democratic primary (15:30), President Donald Trump's influence on politics and why Neera blames Trump for the "warfare" gripping America (22:45), and if the Democratic party has a leadership gap (28:30).

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Neera first appeared on PULSE CHECK in June 2017, as Republicans pushed to repeal the Affordable Care Act.

CAP commissioned an independent analysis from Avalere on its Medicare Extra plan.

Vox's Ezra Klein praised many elements of CAP's Medicare Extra proposal.

Progressives have urged Democrats to commit to Medicare for All, saying that opting for a public option instead would still leave millions at risk.

A new NPR/PBS NewsHour/Marist poll found that 70 percent of respondents favor "Medicare for All" when they have a choice between a government plan and private insurance, but just 41 percent favor a mandatory Medicare for All plan.

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The race for AI supremacy

Thu, 18 Jul 2019 09:00:03 -0000

Artificial intelligence is poised to transform the world, including the world of health care. In this bonus episode of Pulse Check, we present POLITICO's newest show, Global Translations, which features the White House point person on AI, Lynne Parker, reflecting on the promise of AI in the health field.

Global Translations examines big problems that don't respect political boundaries. The first season of the show is tackling trade, technological disruption, and climate change. If you like the show, subscribe for free wherever you listen to podcasts.

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Understanding Trump's kidney plan, plus an ACA update

Thu, 11 Jul 2019 09:00:06 -0000

President Donald Trump on Wednesday ordered a series of changes intended to reshape how tens of millions of Americans receive kidney care and boost the number of kidney transplants — a plan, scooped by POLITICO, that's received bipartisan praise.

Dr. Carmen Peralta, a nationally known kidney expert at UCSF and chief medical officer for Cricket Health, joins Dan Diamond to discuss the historic problems with U.S. kidney care and what Trump's plan could accomplish (starts at the 1:35 mark).

Then Dan briefly discusses the latest legal threat to Obamacare, following a contentious court hearing this week (starts at the 23:30 mark).

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

The Trump administration moved to shake up how kidney care is delivered in the United States.

A history of Medicare's unusual decision to pay for kidney failure treatment, which critics said has warped the market.

Federal judges aggressively questioned whether Obamacare can survive in a hearing this week.

Law professors Nick Bagley and Richard Primus laid out strategies for Congress to protect the ACA against the lawsuit working its way through the courts.

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Looking outside the Beltway with Bijan Salehizadeh and Sue Desmond-Hellmann

Wed, 03 Jul 2019 17:17:59 -0000

Washington is quiet this week, ahead of the Fourth of July holiday and with Congress on recess.

So we're featuring excerpts from two classic conversations: doctor-turned-venture capitalist Bijan Salehizadeh on how he invests in health care and why he passed on Theranos (starts at the 1:35 mark) and Gates Foundation CEO Sue Desmond-Hellmann on how her foundation views public health and what the United States can learn from global efforts (starts at the 15:00 mark).

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Bijan's full 2016 appearance on "Pulse Check," where he explained how venture capitalists approach the health industry and how he decides where to invest.

Sue's full 2017 appearance on "Pulse Check," where she explained her foundation's work on problems like polio and why she wishes "prevention" was more of a political priority in U.S. health efforts.

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Sen. Lamar Alexander on how to build a health care bill

Thu, 27 Jun 2019 09:00:13 -0000

Lamar Alexander is one of the most powerful senators on health care. The Tennessee Republican leads the HELP Committee, which steers much of the key health legislation, and he's now pushing a wide-ranging bill that he says will lower health care costs.

Alexander sat down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss his new health care package, what he's learned from guiding bills through Congress and how he would fix the Senate — if he could.

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What it's like to run Medicaid, with Tim Hill

Thu, 20 Jun 2019 09:00:12 -0000

Tim Hill carved out a nearly three-decade career in the federal government, ultimately rising to a role where he oversaw Medicaid for much of last year.

Now at IMPAQ International, Hill sat down with Dan Diamond to discuss the day-to-day operations of programs like Medicaid, balancing civil service with political changes and some CMS initiatives that have been overshadowed. (Starts at the 1:00-minute mark.)

After the break, Rachana Pradhan and Adam Cancryn join Dan to discuss POLITICO's report on rising tensions between HHS and the White House. (Starts at the 25:00-minute mark.)

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

The Trump administration's controversial Medicaid work requirements were blocked earlier this year by a federal judge.

CMS Adminstrator Seema Verma has touted efforts to improve maternal mortality.

POLITICO's report on HHS Secretary Alex Azar's recent clashes with the White House.

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Keeping new moms alive, with Katy Kozhimannil

Thu, 13 Jun 2019 09:00:08 -0000

Hundreds of women every year die from pregnancy-related complications in the United States — a trend that's been worsening and disproportionately hit minority and rural communities.

Katy Kozhimannil, a University of Minnesota researcher who's helped lead national research into maternal mortality, joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss why the problem has gotten worse, what presidential candidates like Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Kamala Harris are proposing to stop it and how worried the average new mom should really be.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

The award-winning NPR/ProPublica series on maternal mortality.

Katy's Health Affairs article about her family's personal experience with death after childbirth.

Sen. Elizabeth Warren is touting a plan to addressing black maternal mortality. So is Sen. Kamala Harris, who unveiled her own proposal last month.

Reps. Alma Adams and Lauren Underwood have launched the Black Maternal Health Caucus.

CMS Administrator Seema Verma has increasingly focused on rural maternal mortality.

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How the courts are deciding Obama and Trump's health care legacies, with Katie Keith

Thu, 06 Jun 2019 09:00:30 -0000

"We're doing health policy by litigation these days."

The fate of Obamacare and a slew of Trump health care policies — from Medicaid work requirements to Title X family planning changes — now rests in the courts.

Georgetown law professor Katie Keith sat down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss the legal fight over the Affordable Care Act, the litigation over Trump-era regulations, the rollback of LGBTQ patient policies and her own role as Health Affairs' go-to blogger for ACA analysis.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Oral arguments are looming next month as Democrat-led states appeal a decision, supported by the Trump administration, that the Affordable Care Act is unconstitutional.

The Texas Tribune looked closer at how GOP lawyers have steered cases to Judge Reed O'Connor, hoping he'll keep striking down Obama-era regulations.

The Trump administration last month rolled back protections for LGBTQ patients. HHS also announced new protections for religious health workers, a decision that drew on old polling by Kellyanne Conway.

Katie blogs about ACA regulations at Health Affairs.

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Roundup: CBD and marijuana, plus 2020 policy fights

Thu, 30 May 2019 09:00:05 -0000

With Congress on recess, POLITICO reporters break down a series of recent stories.

First, POLITICO's Sarah Owermohle and Paul Demko discuss the FDA's landmark hearing on CBD and separate efforts to legalize marijuana. (Starts at the 0:50 mark.)

Then, POLITICO's Rachana Pradhan and Adam Cancryn join Dan to review the policy fights over abortion access, drug pricing and LGBTQ protections, and how they're playing ahead of 2020 election campaigns. (Starts at the 16:25 mark.)

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Meet the congresswoman behind Democrats' new health care package

Thu, 23 May 2019 09:00:01 -0000

Less than three years ago, Lisa Blunt Rochester had never held elected office. Now the Delaware congresswoman — the first African-American and the first woman to represent her state — is emerging as a player in the House's health care efforts.

Blunt Rochester joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss her key role in the Obamacare and drug pricing legislation that just passed the House, how she views the health industry as a former state health official and why she endorsed longtime friend Joe Biden for president.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Blunt Rochester's MORE Health Education Act was a key part of House Democrats' health care package last week.

Blunt Rochester in April endorsed Biden for the presidency.

Blunt Rochester broke new ground when she was elected in 2016 to represent Delaware.

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On Uwe Reinhardt's new book and lasting legacy

Thu, 16 May 2019 09:00:06 -0000

For health care policy wonks, for decades, perhaps there was no more recognizable name than "Uwe" — the Princeton professor who could explain health care's broken economics in a snappy soundbite.

Uwe Reinhardt passed away in November 2017 but his new book is out this week. His wife and collaborator, Tsung-Mei (May) Cheng, sat down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss Reinhardt's life, work and lasting lessons.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

"Priced Out," Reinhardt's final book, was published this week.

Reinhardt appeared on NPR's "Fresh Air" in 2009 to discuss the push for the Affordable Care Act.

POLITICO Pulse Check's November 2017 reflections on Reinhardt. (Starts at the 45:38 mark.)

"It's the prices, stupid," Reinhardt and colleagues declared in a 2003 Health Affairs paper on the United States' problem with high health costs.

At Stat News, Gerard Anderson — a Johns Hopkins professor and co-author on the "prices, stupid" paper — reflects on Reinhardt's life and work.

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Inside Baltimore's 'Healthy Holly' scandal with the reporter who broke it

Wed, 08 May 2019 09:00:10 -0000

Two months ago, Baltimore Sun reporter Luke Broadwater learned that the state's flagship hospital system had paid Baltimore Mayor Catherine Pugh at least $500,000 for her self-published "Healthy Holly" children's books — even as Pugh sat on the system's board.

More stunning details quickly emerged, and the resulting scandal has reshaped Maryland politics — Pugh resigned last week — and sparked new hospital legislation. Luke joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss how he got the story, how the Sun has covered the fallout and where Maryland's hospitals and politicians go from here.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Luke's initial March 13 story on the University of Maryland Medical System's deals with its board members.

Pugh's March 28 press conference, where she defended her work and touted "Healthy Holly" themed baby clothes.

Luke's May 4 story on Pugh's decision to resign.

The Baltimore Sun's archive of coverage in the scandal.

Washington Post book critic Carlos Lozada reviewed the "Healthy Holly" book series and found it lacking.

HBO's John Oliver riffed on the Baltimore scandal last month.

Pugh appeared on POLITICO's "Women Rule" podcast in 2017, discussing her ambitions for Baltimore.

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Why 150,000 nurses are fighting for "Medicare for All"

Tue, 30 Apr 2019 02:14:19 -0000

The health care industry is trying to stop "Medicare for All." It's also a non-starter with Republicans, and some Democrats don't like it either.

But progressives who support single-payer can count on the muscle of one key constituency: Organized labor.

Bonnie Castillo, the head of National Nurses United, joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss why her 150,000-member-strong union has thrown its support behind Medicare for All, why she thinks the legislation would help patients and her members, and how her organization is setting strategy and viewing the 2020 election.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Activist Ady Barkan, who's testifying at this week's historic Medicare for All hearing, appeared on "Pulse Check" in December 2017, at an earlier stage of fighting ALS.

National Nurses United helped organize a Medicare for All protest outside of the headquarters of PhRMA, the drug lobby, on Monday.

Nursing unions have spent years pushing for policy priorities like nurse-to-patient ratios.

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'Historic' payment pilots and Ariadne Labs' Asaf Bitton

Fri, 26 Apr 2019 00:22:24 -0000

HHS Secretary Alex Azar and other officials this week unveiled new payment pilots that they say will transform primary care. Are they right?

POLITICO's Rachel Roubein and Paul Demko join Dan Diamond to discuss the payment pilots (starts at the 1:30 mark), the latest Obamacare changes (starts at the 9:35 mark) and new developments in the "Medicare-for-All" debate (starts at the 17:10 mark).

Then Asaf Bitton, the new leader of Ariadne Labs — the Atul Gawande-founded think tank — joins PULSE CHECK to discuss his vision for Ariadne and his experience as an adviser on this week's primary care reforms (starts at the 25:10 mark).

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

HHS on Monday unveiled new payment pilots intended to reward primary care providers for high-value care. In a speech, Azar called it a "historic turning point in American health care."

CMS last week finalized new rules for the Obamacare marketplace in 2020, which the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities said will hit many consumers' pocketbooks.

A new Kaiser Family Foundation poll found that "Medicare for All" has fallen behind other priorities like lower drug costs.

POLITICO's Rachana Pradhan and Dan Goldberg looked at blue states' fight to create "public option" health plans.

Meanwhile, Bitton was named the new leader of Ariadne Labs, succeeding Gawande, and laid out his strategy.

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Roundup: Medicare for All, Democrats' divides and drug pricing investigations

Thu, 18 Apr 2019 01:00:02 -0000

On this week's episode, POLITICO reporters debate two of the biggest stories in health policy.

First, POLITICO's Adam Cancryn and Alice Miranda Ollstein join Dan Diamond to discuss Bernie Sanders' new Medicare for All plan and how Democrats are approaching the fight for coverage expansion.

Then after the break (starts at the 25:30 mark), pharma reporter Sarah Owermohle summarizes recent Congressional hearings into high drug prices and pharmacy benefit managers and previews a possible regulation to come.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Sanders unveiled his Medicare for All plan last week and touted it aggressively — including on Fox News.

Congressional Republicans have pushed for votes on Medicare for All, seeking to highlight Democrats' splits.

The New York Times profiled the tensions between the Sanders campaign and the Center for American Progress, partly over health care plans. The article sparked outrage from many Democrats, some of whom objected to quoting the 78-year-old mother of CAP's president.

Lawmakers grilled insulin manufacturers and PBMs last week over high drug prices.

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Tony Fauci, the nation's top infectious disease doctor

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 09:00:17 -0000

Tony Fauci joined NIH in 1968. He was named head of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases in 1984.

And on a warm day in April 2019, he sat down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond to reflect on his ongoing work — from the emergence of HIV/AIDS nearly 40 years ago to how the Trump administration is trying to end the epidemic.

On the podcast, Fauci also discussed the resurgence of measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases, his perspective on the Trump administration and what it's like to give advice to a president.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

President Donald Trump has vowed to effectively end HIV transmission within a decade.

Fauci has long argued that we have the tools to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

Jen Kates of the Kaiser Family Foundation recently appeared on "Pulse Check" to discuss Trump's HIV policy.

Fauci was a prominent voice during the Ebola epidemic, urging a measured response and even treating one patient himself.

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Rep. Joe Kennedy on defending Medicaid in the Trump era

Thu, 04 Apr 2019 09:00:15 -0000

Rep. Joe Kennedy first appeared on this podcast in early 2017, at House Democrats' lowest moment: The GOP had steamrolled the party, speeding an Affordable Care Act repeal bill that seemed inevitable.

But the GOP's efforts ultimately failed; Democrats retook the House a year later; and Kennedy this week rejoined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to reflect on how House Democrats' health policy has changed as they've become the majority party, why he now supports a Medicare for All bill, how he approaches questioning Trump officials like HHS Secretary Alex Azar and more.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Kennedy's 2017 appearance on the "Pulse Check" podcast.

House Democrats have worried that the push for "Medicare for All" could divert the caucus' energy from other health care priorities, like preserving the Affordable Care Act.

Kennedy's questioning of HHS Secretary Alex Azar during a hearing last month, which went viral.

Kennedy last week introduced a bill to strengthen Medicaid and CHIP funding.

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The new GOP senator who wants to be a leader on health care

Thu, 28 Mar 2019 09:00:00 -0000

Just a year ago, Mike Braun was an underdog in the Republican primary for an Indiana Senate seat. Now he's a freshman senator, installed on the Senate's key health care committee — and pushing his own package of health reforms.

Braun joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to explain his frustration over how Washington regulates the U.S. health system, his criticism of the latest effort to strike down the ACA and why he thinks more Republicans need to make health care a policy priority.

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FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb

Wed, 20 Mar 2019 23:41:00 -0000

Scott Gottlieb was nominated to run the FDA in March 2017. Two years — and nearly 500 press announcements — later, the productive and high-profile commissioner is preparing to step down in early April 2019.

Gottlieb joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss why he's leaving FDA (starts at 1:30), his regulatory and communications strategy (4:40), his work on medical device safety (10:30), digital health (16:30), opioid abuse (19:15), the Trump administration's approach to science and the choice of Ned Sharpless as acting FDA commissioner (24:25), what Gottlieb would've pursued if he had more time at FDA (26:30) and if he'll ever return to government (28:30).

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

As commissioner, Gottlieb has received bipartisan praise for his activist agenda.

Gottlieb's aggressive moves as commissioner came as a surprise, given his pre-Trump administration reputation as someone with a free-market background.

The conservative Washington Times cheered Gottlieb's departure, suggesting that he became "an avenging angel for the Nanny state" and pushed too much regulation on vaping.

Before rejoining FDA in 2017, Gottlieb was a frequent critic of its actions, such as in a 2010 AEI column where Gottlieb urged FDA to become more transparent on drug company letters.

Gottlieb steered numerous reforms at FDA, including pushing an overhaul of medical device reviews.

FDA recently approved a powerful painkiller called Dsuvia, drawing some criticism.

Gottlieb's January 2018 and November 2018 appearances on "Pulse Check."

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Can we trust Trump on HIV?

Wed, 13 Mar 2019 20:44:00 -0000

He's tried to cut global HIV funds. He's made moves to roll back LGBTQ protections. He reportedly confused "HIV" and "HPV."

Can we really trust President Donald Trump when he promises to end the HIV epidemic in a decade?

Jen Kates of the Kaiser Family Foundation joins POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss the president's pledge, his latest funding moves and the state of the global fight against HIV.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Trump promised at the State of the Union that he would end "AIDS in America and beyond."

The strategy unveiled by Trump's health department faces a potential minefield, from skeptical public health experts to conservative religious organizations.

Meanwhile, Trump's budget proposed new money for domestic HIV initiatives — but significantly cut global health efforts.

Anthony Fauci, the federal government's top infectious disease official, says that the recent cure of an HIV patient isn't a path to curing everyone.

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The Scott Gottlieb era is (almost) over

Thu, 07 Mar 2019 03:27:00 -0000

FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb's leaving the Trump administration, and POLITICO reporters react to the monumental news.

In the first panel (starts at the 1:30 mark), Sarah Karlin-Smith and Adam Cancryn join Dan Diamond to react to Gottlieb's resignation and discuss the political implications.

In the second panel (starts at the 21:00 mark), Sarah Owermohle and Helena Bottemiller Evich join Dan to discuss Gottlieb's policies and reflect on his legacy.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Gottlieb's appeared on PULSE CHECK twice: In January 2018, to discuss his agency's priorities, and November 2018, to unveil his e-cigarette strategy.

POLITICO's Sarah, Sarah and Helena looked at Gottlieb's departure and key milestones.

Bloomberg's Max Nisen argued that Gottlieb was the Trump administration's most popular official.

The shutdown hit FDA especially hard, with Gottlieb and others warning that FDA's food safety inspections were imperiled.

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Meet the industry group fighting Medicare for All

Thu, 28 Feb 2019 00:37:00 -0000

More than 100 House Democrats on Wednesday, led by Rep. Pramila Jayapal, unveiled their sweeping Medicare for All legislation. So what comes next — and why is the health care industry so opposed to it?

First, POLITICO's Alice Miranda Ollstein joins Dan Diamond (starts at the 1:05 mark) on Capitol Hill to explain the state of play.

Then Lauren Crawford Shaver, head of the Partnership for America's Health Care Future (starts at the 9:00 mark), explains why her members — groups like the American Medical Association and the American Hospital Association — think Medicare for All and Democrats' other proposals are non-starters.

REFERENCED ON THE SHOW

Democrats' Medicare for All bill, released this week, doesn't include a price tag, Alice and POLITICO's Adam Cancryn wrote.

Jayapal appeared on "Pulse Check" in December 2018 to discuss her Medicare for All plans.

The Partnership has been running digital ads against Medicare for All.

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Roundup: Medicaid fights, ACA lawsuits and drug pricing with Rodney Whitlock

Fri, 22 Feb 2019 00:50:00 -0000

With Congress on recess, POLITICO's reporters (and a bonus guest) take stock of three big stories in a grab-bag episode.

First, Rachana Pradhan leads a conversation on Utah's controversial changes to voter-approved Medicaid expansion (starts at the 1:20 mark). Next, Paul Demko offers an update on lawsuits over President Donald Trump's cancellation of ACA payments to insurers (starts at the 12:40 mark). Finally, Rodney Whitlock — a former top aide to Sen. Chuck Grassley — joins POLITICO's reporters to help preview next week's drug pricing hearings in the Senate (starts at the 24:00 mark).

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Utah's GOP leaders shrunk the state's voter-approved Medicaid expansion.

Rachana will sit down with Utah Gov. Gary Herbert on Friday morning at a POLITICO livestreamed event.

Multiple judges have now ruled that the United States owes billions of dollars to insurers after Trump cancelled certain ACA payments in 2017.

Seven leading pharma executives will face the Senate Finance Committee in a much-anticipated hearing next week.

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How a top Democrat is approaching this year's investigations

Thu, 14 Feb 2019 10:00:00 -0000

"In our view, our jurisdiction is the world... Every time you watch the nightly news, [I] come up with at least three new ideas for hearings."

Rep. Diana DeGette, the Colorado Democrat leading oversight for the powerful Energy and Commerce Committee, joins POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss why she prioritized hearings on family separations, vow an investigation of high insulin prices, reflect on her mentor John Dingell and more.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

DeGette's subcommittee held its first hearing last week, focused on HHS' role in family separations.

DeGette, alongside GOP Rep. Tom Reed, probed the high prices of insulin last year.

DeGette says she has questions about HHS' new fetal tissue policy.

Planned Parenthood's Leana Wen was on the podcast last week. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley also joined POLITICO in recent weeks to discuss his priorities.

Bob Carey, the former head of the HHS refugee office, joined the podcast last year to explain the refugee office and his concerns about the Trump administration's policies. Rep. Joe Kennedy, who's DeGette's vice-chair on the subcommittee, joined the podcast in 2017 to discuss his career and focus on health care.

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Planned Parenthood's Leana Wen

Thu, 07 Feb 2019 10:00:00 -0000

"We are at a time when everything is at stake… If we don’t fight and we don’t lead the charge… then who is going to?”

The Trump administration has made no secret of its plans to roll back access to abortion. One of the key figures attempting to stop them: Leana Wen, a physician tapped to be Planned Parenthood's new leader last fall.

Wen joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to rebut President Trump's latest efforts to limit abortion access, explain her vision for Planned Parenthood and share reflections on her fast-rising career.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Wen was tapped in September 2018 as the new leader of Planned Parenthood — the first doctor to run the organization in decades.

BuzzFeed profiled Wen and her vision for Planned Parenthood, although Wen later took issue with the headline.

Marjorie Dannenfelser, head of the prominent anti-abortion group Susan B. Anthony List, appeared on POLITICO's podcast last year. In a separate episode, POLITICO reporters traced the fight over abortion access.

(Interested in more perspectives on abortion? Check our archives for interviews with NARAL's Ilyse Hogue, Equity Forward's Mary Alice Carter and other prominent figures.)

Wen's four-year stint as Baltimore health commissioner attracted significant attention and was widely praised.

Baltimore's notorious for its health care disparities, which have contributed to broader unrest, as Dan wrote in 2015.

Wen and other city health commissioners sued the Trump administration over its abrupt cancellation of teen pregnancy prevention funds.

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Sen. Chuck Grassley

Tue, 29 Jan 2019 01:56:00 -0000

Sen. Chuck Grassley says it's time for the secrecy in the pharma industry to end.

"The lack of transparency... is something that allows the shenanigans that we read about every day," the Senate Finance Committee chairman said, on the eve of his committee's first drug pricing hearing.

Grassley sat down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond to review his drug pricing plans, explain his approach to government oversight and talk through his priorities — including his famous use of Twitter.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Grassley in 1983 disregarded the Reagan administration to probe Pentagon cost overruns. The resulting hearing led to a TIME Magazine cover story.

Grassley in 2017 pushed back against the Trump administration's effort to limit oversight requests.

Grassley in 2018 co-sponsored the CREATES Act, which was intended to lower prescription drug prices.

Grassley has used social media to promote a variety of priorities — including his ongoing "corn watch."

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Ashish Jha on hospital readmissions and global health

Thu, 24 Jan 2019 03:35:00 -0000

Ashish Jha has spent years sounding the alarm about the Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program — an Obamacare policy intended to encourage hospitals to provide better care. But Jha argues the program instead put patients at risk, and new data suggests he might be right.

Jha, the director of the Harvard Global Health Institute, joins POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss the readmissions policy and the latest data. Jha also reflects on the Trump administration’s approach to global health and how his perspective has evolved over the past two years.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Jha’s February 2017 appearance on POLITICO “Pulse Check,” where he discussed his career and global health priorities.

A JAMA study in December found a link between the readmissions policy and rising mortality. Harvard researchers this month also concluded that Medicare has overstated the benefits of its readmissions policy.

Yale’s Harlan Krumholz helped develop the policy and has extensively defended it, including in this 2017 comment in JAMA.

Writing in the New York Times, Paula Span reviewed the latest arguments and data.

HHS Secretary Alex Azar has a unique perspective: Even as he oversees a policy to cut readmissions, Azar was readmitted to the hospital last year while suffering an intestinal infection.

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Sarah Kliff on hospital billing and policy journalism

Fri, 18 Jan 2019 22:18:00 -0000

Why spend more than a year investigating hospital bills? Vox's Sarah Kliff says it all started with a $629 band-aid; now she's probing a hospital named after Facebook's founder.

Sarah — a senior policy correspondent, host of "The Impact" podcast and a former POLITICO reporter — sits down with Dan Diamond to discuss her billing series and the reaction, what she's learned about health care prices and how she thinks about policy journalism.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Sarah's story on Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and its unusual billing practices.

Sarah's ongoing series on hospital billing and the impact on patients.

Dan's story on efforts to regulate not-for-profit hospitals, led by Sen. Chuck Grassley.

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Inside HHS: A former official defends crisis response

Mon, 07 Jan 2019 10:15:00 -0000

Thousands of migrant families were separated at the border by the Trump administration last year. One of the HHS officials involved in putting them back together: Chris Meekins — a Trump appointee who normally helped oversee emergency preparedness, but was tapped as part of HHS' broader response.

Meekins, who left HHS last week, sat down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond to defend the HHS family reunification effort and discuss the Trump administration's broader missteps at the border (starts at the 1:30 mark), explain how HHS responds to natural disasters (21:00), review the biosecurity threats facing America (26:30) and more.

REFERENCED ON THE SHOW

How HHS got drawn into the family separation crisis.

The Trump administration has been criticized for its response to hurricanes that hit Puerto Rico.

The Strategic National Stockpile was shifted from CDC to HHS last year.

The Trump administration last fall announced a new biodefense strategy.

A U.S. doctor exposed to Ebola was brought to Nebraska last week.

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What's ahead for health care in 2019

Thu, 03 Jan 2019 00:19:00 -0000

It's a new year, and PULSE CHECK returns to look at what's ahead.

POLITICO's Adam Cancryn and Rachana Pradhan join Dan Diamond to discuss if the partial government shutdown will end soon (starts at the 1:45 mark), what's on Congress' to-do list (4:00) and how the Trump administration is putting its stamp on the states (16:45) — with a bonus conversation about the most influential Trump appointees (26:10).

REFERENCED ON THE SHOW

There’s no sign that the partial government shutdown will come to an end soon. More.

Adam and Alice Miranda Ollstein’s POLITICO Pro story on House Democrats’ new health strategy. (Behind the Pro firewall.) More.

Rachana’s story about thousands of Arkansas residents losing Medicaid coverage every month. More.

Arkansas health chief Cindy Gillespie and ex-CMS Administrator Andy Slavitt dueled on POLITICO's podcast about whether work requirements would harm Medicaid beneficiaries. More.

Atul Gawande’s October 2017 New Yorker article on whether health care should be a right. More.

Mississippi is quietly considering Medicaid expansion, POLITICO’s Paul Demko scooped. More.

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Bonus: Unpacking the government shutdown

Fri, 28 Dec 2018 18:15:00 -0000

In an episode of POLITICO's "Nerdcast," guest host Dan Diamond joins congressional reporters Rachael Bade and Burgess Everett to review the partial government shutdown, how it's affecting the agencies and the possible path toward a deal.

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Maryland AG Brian Frosh on his fight to save Obamacare

Thu, 20 Dec 2018 10:00:00 -0000

You may have heard about Texas' lawsuit over Obamacare, and a judge's recent decision that the ACA is unconstitutional. But have you heard about Maryland's counter-attack?

Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh is locked in a legal battle with the Trump administration, and he joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to explain his fight to get the ACA declared as the law of the land. (Starts at the 1:20 mark.)

Then after the break, POLITICO executive editor for health care Joanne Kenen and reporter Paul Demko sit down with Dan to discuss the ongoing ACA legal battles, interpret the latest Obamacare enrollment numbers and explain why so many Americans are at risk after Friday's court ruling against the ACA. (Starts at the 14:20 mark.)

REFERENCED ON THE SHOW

Frosh in September sued the Trump administration over the ACA.

Paul and Alice Miranda Ollstein's review of ACA enrollment numbers.

Joanne and Alice's article on how many Americans benefit from the ACA, whether they know it or not.

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Surgeon General Jerome Adams

Tue, 18 Dec 2018 11:00:00 -0000

"I don't want anyone to think I'm against the harm-reduction potential of these devices for adults. But 3 percent of adults are using these devices — [and] 20 percent of high schoolers are using these devices."

Surgeon General Jerome Adams sits down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond to explain why he's issuing an advisory on the risks of e-cigarettes for youth — just the second surgeon general advisory since 2005. (Starts at the 1:30 mark.) Adams also reviews what he thought of doctors' recent clash with the NRA on social media, how he's setting his 2019 priorities and even shares some personal details.

After the break, POLITICO's Sarah Owermohle joins Dan to discuss Adams' comments on e-cigarettes and the Trump administration's broader push on vaping. (Starts at the 21:30 mark.)

REFERENCED ON THE SHOW

The surgeon general's office has a resource guide for parents, providers and children on e-cigarettes.

FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb joined POLITICO's podcast in November to discuss his own concerns about vaping and his pending crackdown.

Physicians pushed back after the NRA said doctors should "stay in their lane" and not discuss gun violence.

Adams praised "Blue Zones," the work into why some communities appear to be healthier than others.

Former Surgeon General Vivek Murthy appeared on POLITICO's "Pulse Check" in 2016, discussing his own approach to the role.

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HealthCare.Glum? The latest on the ACA

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 04:47:00 -0000

Policy wonks are increasingly pessimistic about Affordable Care Act open enrollment this year, as sign-ups fall further behind last year's pace.

What's next for health coverage — in 2018 and beyond?

First, Noah Lang of Stride Health joins POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss Stride's new partnership with CMS to help workers for Uber, Etsy and other gig economy companies get covered.

Then, POLITICO's Adam Cancryn and Alice Miranda Ollstein review the ACA sign-up slowdown, Democrats' tricky policy fight over Medicare for All and why the Supreme Court turned down a chance to weigh in on abortion.

REFERENCED ON THE PODCAST

Sign-ups on HealthCare.gov are about 10 percent behind last year's pace, according to CMS data released Wednesday. There are many possible culprits.

Adam's story on progressives' looming dispute over Medicare for All.

Alice's story on the Supreme Court rejecting petitions to hear cases involving Planned Parenthood.

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Rep. Pramila Jayapal and the fight for 'Medicare for All'

Wed, 05 Dec 2018 22:37:00 -0000

Health care helped Democrats capture the House of Representatives. Now comes the hard part: Figuring out a path forward, with some progressives embracing proposals like Medicare for All — and centrists worried that the plan isn't feasible and a political loser.

Rep. Pramila Jayapal, who leads the House's Medicare for All Caucus, joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to defend the idea amid Republican attacks, explain why she thinks its time has come, and criticize the health care industry's attempts to stop it.

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Roundup: The lame-duck Congress, plus new drug pricing plans

Thu, 29 Nov 2018 10:00:00 -0000

POLITICO's Paul Demko, who's in for host Dan Diamond, speaks with reporters Alice Ollstein and Sarah Karlin-Smith about what to expect on the health care front from the lame-duck session of Congress (spoiler: not much). Plus, just as only Nixon could go to China, perhaps only Republicans can limit drug coverage in Medicare Part D -- a discussion of proposed changes from CMS and the seeming lack of opposition from Congressional Republicans, at least for the moment.

Reporting referenced in this episode:

GOP infighting delaying popular health bills

CMS takes on 'protected classes' in Part D

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Dan Barber wants you to stop throwing away food

Thu, 15 Nov 2018 09:00:00 -0000

Dan Barber is a chef known for his radical take on food. He's appeared on the popular Netflix show Chef's Table and is the owner of Blue Hill Restaurant. He joins host Dan Diamond to talk about the future of food and nutrition, and why he thinks we should be using more of the foods we throw away.

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FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb

Fri, 09 Nov 2018 04:58:00 -0000

"All the great gains that we've made in this country, reducing smoking rates ... all of that will be reversed or lost if we can't address the youth use of e-cigarettes."

FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb is planning a crackdown on sales of e-cigarettes — a story that broke on Thursday — and he sat down exclusively with POLITICO to talk about why the agency is making such a dramatic move.

Gottlieb joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss his infamous "almonds don't lactate" comment and other nutrition news (starts at the 6:00 mark), explain his concerns about e-cigarettes and tease the FDA's pending crackdown (14:45), answer questions about the Trump administration's approach to science and vaccines (30:30), discuss FDA's new approach to approving opioids (35:30) and explain why the FDA's drug importation working group has been so low-profile (38:30).

And stick around for the lightning round of questions about Gottlieb's job, which starts at 42:30.

But first, POLITICO's Sarah Owermohle joins the podcast to put the e-cigarette news in context (starts at the 1:45 mark).

MENTIONED ON THE PODCAST

Gottlieb's infamous "an almond doesn't lactate" line at the POLITICO Pro summit.

TV host Stephen Colbert touting "An Almond Doesn't Lacate" line of t-shirts.

The FDA and Department of Agriculture's turf battle over lab-grown meat.

Gottlieb's reported plan to crack down on sales of e-cigarettes.

The fight over fetal tissue research inside HHS pitting "pro-life against pro-science."

Concerns about President Trump's inaccurate comments about vaccines.

FDA's formation of a working group to look at drug importation.

Gottlieb's announcement of a new approach to opioid approvals.

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Midterms recap: What happens now

Wed, 07 Nov 2018 08:30:00 -0000

From Medicaid expansion to ACA repeal, health care was on the ballot on Tuesday night.

POLITICO's Rachel Roubein, Paul Demko and Adam Cancryn join Dan Diamond to discuss the key winners — and notable losers — and explain what to watch in Congress and the states in the coming months.

READING MATERIAL

Adam and Alice Miranda Ollstein looked at how Tuesday's results served as redemption for the Affordable Care Act.

POLITICO's Burgess Everett and Elana Schor examined the Senate GOP's strengthened hand.

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How to watch health care in the election

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 09:00:00 -0000

Need a guide to Election Day — and all of the health care storylines? POLITICO's health team has you covered this week, with a roundtable episode that explains what we're watching around the nation.

First, Victoria Colliver joins from California to discuss the record spending on the state's measure to cap dialysis clinic profits. (Starts at the 1:15 mark.) Then Adam Cancryn and Paul Demko sit down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond to review key races and share insights from reporting trips to states like Ohio, Idaho and Kansas (Starts at the 7:30 mark.)

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Victoria's story on the record $111 million in spending over California's ballot measure to rein in dialysis clinics' profits. (The story is behind POLITICO's Pro firewall.)

Michael Hiltzik of the Los Angeles Times looks at the spending fight over the dialysis ballot measure.

Paul's story on Idaho's ballot measure for Medicaid expansion.

Alice Miranda Ollstein's story on the Medicaid expansion debate in Georgia and other states led by GOP governors.

Avalere Health's projection that 2.7 million people could gain Medicaid coverage after this year's election.

Paul shadowed GOP Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers on the campaign trail.

Adam's story about the controversial opioid ballot measure in Ohio.

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Meet the woman leading the nation's war on addiction

Thu, 25 Oct 2018 06:16:00 -0000

Nora Volkow has run the National Institute on Drug Abuse for 15 years — long enough to serve three presidents, to see the science of addiction evolve and to witness the rise of the opioid crisis (and try to fight it).

Nora sat down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss her unusual background — a Mexican who ended up leading the U.S. agency that investigates drug abuse and addiction — as well as the causes of addiction, what the government is doing to fight it and which movie or TV show actually gets the problem right.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW AND FOR FURTHER REFERENCE

NIDA's work on addiction science, which informs international efforts.

Nora's own research, as a practicing scientist.

Brianna Ehley's recent POLITICO story on the rise of deaths from meth, cocaine and other drugs.

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Peter Orszag and news roundup

Wed, 17 Oct 2018 22:51:00 -0000

"What we were trying to do at the time was change the mindset of the executives running these large organizations. And I, for one, think we succeeded far beyond my wildest imagination, in putting enough things into the Affordable Care Act that the people out in the field said, 'Whoa, the world is changing and we’ve got to respond to it.'"

Peter Orszag is one of the intellectual godfathers of the Affordable Care Act, serving as President Barack Obama's top budget official during the health care fight. Now he's helping put together the health care giants of the future, advising on mega-deals like CVS-Aetna and Cigna-Express Scripts as a top investment banker at Lazard.

Peter sat down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond to walk through his experience in the Obama White House, what he's learned on Wall Street and how he sees health care moving forward. (Starts at the 7:10 mark.)

But first, Dan runs through some of the big stories from the week, including the Trump administration's plan to require that drug companies post prices in ads and the choice of Mary Mayhew to serve as director of Medicaid.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

HHS Secretary Alex Azar's speech announcing new requirements for drug companies to post their prices.

PhRMA's pre-emptive move to announce they'll voluntarily disclosure about costs.

POLITICO's Sarah Karlin-Smith recaps the dueling moves on pharma prices.

The Trump administration chose Mary Mayhew to serve as director of Medicaid.

Mayhew's January 2017 letter to then-HHS Secretary nominee Tom Price on her Medicaid wish-list for Maine.

Peter Orszag's July 2013 defense of the Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB).

Vanderbilt's Melinda Buntin talked to POLITICO about Medicare's spending slowdown.

James Fallows' criticism of Orszag's move from the White House to Wall Street.

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Why one nurse is running for Congress

Wed, 10 Oct 2018 21:30:00 -0000

It’s no secret that health care has been a key election issue — Democrats are promising to defend the Affordable Care Act and expand coverage, while Republicans are warning that Medicare for All puts seniors at risk.

So where do we stand a month away from the midterms?

First, POLITICO's Adam Cancryn joins Dan Diamond to break down the latest campaign messaging on health care and several key battles. (Starts at the 1:45 mark.)

Then, Lauren Underwood — a nurse, a former HHS staffer and a first-time candidate for the House of Representatives — explains why she's running for Congress, in a competitive Illinois race. (Starts at the 16:45 mark.)

(Note: POLITICO reached out to Underwood's opponent, Rep. Randy Hultgren, but has been unable to book him on the show.)

It's not too early to cast a vote for PULSE CHECK: Please rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Writing in POLITICO, Adam's story on Republicans using misleading health care ads to attack Democrats.

POLITICO's Alice Miranda Ollstein wrote about congressional candidates — including Lauren Underwood — campaigning on their own pre-existing conditions.

The New York Times/Siena College poll of Lauren Underwood's race against Rep. Randy Hultgren.

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Pulse Check at Work: Health coach

Thu, 27 Sep 2018 09:00:00 -0000

A "health coach" is just what it sounds like — a coach who’s there to help patients manage a problem, or make changes to their lifestyle. And thousands. On this episode, you'll hear from two.

First, Michele Geraldi — a coach for Omada Health, which specializes in diabetes prevention — explains how she works to convince patients to be healthier.

Then Ruth Wolever, who runs Vanderbilt's health coaching program and cofounded an international consortium to make coaching better, explains how health coaches fit into value-based care and where she thinks the industry is heading.

It's your chance to coach POLITICO: Please rate or review this show on your favorite podcast app; just search for "POLITICO Pulse Check"! And tip ddiamond@politico.com with suggestions and feedback.

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Pulse Check at Work: Data scientist

Thu, 20 Sep 2018 09:00:00 -0000

Health care is awash in data. And we’re all being tracked, maybe in ways we don’t even realize, by a new class of analysts, armed with increasingly savvy tools.

So who are these people — these data scientists — and what exactly do they do? That's what we'll answer on this episode of "Pulse Check: At Work."

First, Jonathan Sung takes us inside his data-driven projects at the Department of Transportation and Kaiser Permanente.

Then, Aneesh Chopra — who was the nation's first Chief Technology Officer and is now president of CareJourney, a firm using data to improve care — explains the skill set to get hired as a data scientist and why he thinks we need a "digital Hippocratic Oath."

Want to help POLITICO improve our own data? Please rate or review this show on your favorite podcast app; just search for "POLITICO Pulse Check"! And tip ddiamond@politico.com with suggestions and feedback.

Note: We'll continue our regular news coverage and analysis while this series is running — look for bonus episodes in your feed.

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Pulse Check at Work: Radiologist

Thu, 13 Sep 2018 02:34:00 -0000

Overseas doctors are cheaper. Artificial intelligence could eventually be smarter. Patient safety concerns have multiplied. Are American radiologists' days numbered?

These radiologists say no — and take listeners inside their work.

First, Dr. Stefan Tigges of Emory University opens up about the highs and lows of the job, and how he uses his cartoons to teach the next generation of radiologists.

After the break, Dr. Rebecca Smith-Bindman of the University of California-San Francisco, shares a national perspective about how the work is changing, how she thinks about radiation risks and what policymakers need to know.

Like PULSE CHECK? Rate or review us on your favorite podcast app. And tip ddiamond@politico.com with suggestions and feedback.

Note: We'll continue our regular news coverage and analysis while this series is running — look for bonus episodes in your feed.

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Pulse Check at Work: Home health aide

Thu, 06 Sep 2018 09:00:00 -0000

Home health aide is one of the fastest-growing jobs in America — and the first job in our month-long series that will explain how different health care workers fit into the broader health policy picture.

What's it like to be a home health aide — and why take such a demanding, low-paying job in the first place? Lisa Morris, a home health worker in New Jersey, joins POLITICO to explain. Meanwhile, Harvard professor David Grabowski offers insight into the trends and policies that are shaping the home health field.

Like PULSE CHECK? Rate or review us on your favorite podcast app. And tip ddiamond@politico.com with suggestions and feedback.

Note: We'll continue our regular news coverage and analysis while this series is running — look for bonus episodes in your feed.

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Brett Kavanaugh, ACA court hearings take center stage

Mon, 03 Sep 2018 03:43:00 -0000

In a bonus episode, POLITICO's Adam Cancryn and Paul Demko join Dan Diamond to preview this week's high-stakes hearings.

Tuesday: The Senate Judiciary Committee begins grilling Judge Brett Kavanaugh, President Donald Trump's latest nominee to the Supreme Court.

Wednesday: Texas v. Azar gets underway, with the Affordable Care Act's protections at stake.

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The lawyers trying to prove Trump sabotaged the ACA

Wed, 29 Aug 2018 22:18:00 -0000

It’s no secret that President Donald Trump and his administration oppose the Affordable Care Act. But what's gone under the radar: a lawsuit that’s trying to use Trump’s own words to prove that his "sabotage" violates his constitutional responsibilities.

On the podcast, Zach Klein — the attorney for Columbus, Ohio — explains to POLITICO's Dan Diamond why he decided to join the multi-city lawsuit against the Trump administration and how efforts to weaken the ACA could harm his constituents.

After the break, Yale law professor Abbe Gluck explains the legal theory behind the case and whether she thinks it has a shot at success.

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Columbus joined Baltimore, Chicago and other cities in suing the Trump administration.

Abbe Gluck in October 2017 laid out the argument that Trump's moves to undermine the Affordable Care Act were illegal.

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Sen. Heidi Heitkamp

Thu, 23 Aug 2018 20:38:00 -0000

"I think rural health care is on life support...[and] we need to redesign all of that."

Sen. Heidi Heitkamp says that states like hers are facing multiple health care challenges: Too few hospitals and doctors, and too many mothers dying early. The North Dakota senator joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss rural health care, tribal health and other issues often overlooked in Washington, D.C.

Heitkamp — who narrowly won election in 2012 and is arguably Republicans' top target this fall — also explains why she supports some Medicaid work requirements and is against Medicare-for-all.

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

The Trump administration won't exempt Native Americans from Medicaid work requirements.

Heitkamp's campaign is airing ads on pre-existing conditions.

Brett Kavanaugh previously signaled that presidents could ignore laws that they think are unconstitutional.

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Defending vaccines, with Paul Offit

Wed, 15 Aug 2018 20:37:00 -0000

"I've been physically harassed. I've been sued as a way of getting me to shut up. I've had three death threats the FBI deemed credible... But doing the right thing isn't an easy thing."

Paul Offit, a pediatrician at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, has stepped forward as one of the nation's leading defenders of vaccines — a role that's won him national praise and interviews with Stephen Colbert, but also led him to battle with a vocal community of anti-vaxxers.

Paul joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss vaccines and why the current political climate is so troubling — and why he wants to send some reporters to "journalism jail" for enabling lies about science.

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

REFERENCED ON THE PODCAST

Paul’s new book, "Bad Advice: Or Why Celebrities, Politicians, and Activists Aren't Your Best Source of Health Information"

Paul’s 2015 book, “Bad Faith: When Religious Belief Undermines Modern Medicine.”

Donald Trump made public statements linking autism and vaccines.

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Don Rucker wants to set health data free

Wed, 08 Aug 2018 20:22:00 -0000

"The real, ultimate issue is not interoperability — it's unaffordability of American healthcare and lack of consistent health care product... You go to see somebody, and you don't know what it's going to cost."

Don Rucker, the national coordinator for health information technology, explains how the Trump administration is building on — and departing from — the Obama administration's policies. POLITICO's Darius Tahir also joins to evaluate efforts to improve data access.

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Trump's steady march to remake the ACA, with Lanhee Chen

Wed, 01 Aug 2018 20:37:00 -0000

When conservative analyst Lanhee Chen joined POLITICO's "Pulse Check" podcast two years ago, he wasn't sure what to expect from then-candidate Donald Trump. Today, Lanhee's happy with the moves that the Trump administration has made, and he joins Dan Diamond to discuss what won him over. (Starts at the 15:00-minute mark.)

But first, POLITICO's Adam Cancryn sits down to talk about the latest news on the insurance market and HHS at the six-month mark under Secretary Alex Azar.

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

The Trump administration on Wednesday finalized a rule intended to encourage Americans to buy short-term health plans.

Adam’s story on association health plans and NFIB’s decision.

Dan’s story on political interference at ASPE, the internal policy shop at HHS.

Lanhee’s July 2016 appearance on POLITICO’s Pulse Check podcast.

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Sylvia Mathews Burwell

Wed, 25 Jul 2018 23:03:00 -0000

"It's not about how I feel — that's not really what this is about. What this is about is affordability, access, and quality of health care for millions of American people and families across the country."

Sylvia Mathews Burwell, the former HHS secretary and current American University president, sits down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss her career, how she views the Trump administration's efforts to tear down the Affordable Care Act and how she's adjusting to new challenges in higher ed.

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW:

A photo from the 1993 documentary, "The War Room."

The Atlantic's 2014 story on Burwell taking "the worst job" in Washington.

The Washington Post's 2018 story on Burwell guest-coaching the American University women's basketball team.

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The abortion fight, from then to now

Wed, 18 Jul 2018 22:46:00 -0000

POLITICO's Jennifer Haberkorn joins PULSE CHECK to trace the battle over abortion in America, from the courts to Congress and beyond.

Some of Jen's recent reporting on abortion:

How anti-abortion forces learned to love Trump: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/05/22/anti-abortion-forces-trump-561191

The next Supreme Court justice could weigh in on abortion quickly: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/07/03/trump-supreme-court-pick-abortion-667924

The truth behind Sen. Bob Casey's 'pro-life' stand: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/07/02/casey-abortion-pennsylvania-midterms-689505

States prepare for a post-Roe world: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/07/15/abortion-states-roe-wade-687468

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MD Anderson's Ron DePinho on fighting brain cancer

Thu, 12 Jul 2018 15:22:00 -0000

Washington has been consumed with fights over the Affordable Care Act, HHS' care of migrant kids and Donald Trump's promise to cut drug prices — and we'll get back to all of those issues on PULSE CHECK soon.

But today's episode goes outside the Beltway for a look at a persistent public health problem: Brain cancer. POLITICO's Dan Diamond sat down with Ron DePinho, a famed researcher who led MD Anderson Cancer Center, to discuss the moonshot cancer initiative, whether "curing" cancer is realistic and why he stepped down as hospital president.

REFERENCED ON THE PODCAST

MD Anderson's "Moon Shots" Program, which inspired the Obama administration's own cancer initiative.

Ron's 2017 resignation speech as MD Anderson Cancer Center president.

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What Brett Kavanaugh means for health care

Tue, 10 Jul 2018 18:41:00 -0000

It's official: Judge Brett Kavanaugh is President Donald Trump's choice to replace retiring Justice Anthony Kennedy on the Supreme Court.

And his probable confirmation, and the Court's resulting shift to the right, raises serious questions for health care. What happens to the Affordable Care Act? Is Roe v. Wade doomed? And how does this change lawmakers' strategy ahead of the midterms?

In a bonus conversation, POLITICO's Jennifer Haberkorn and Adam Cancryn joined Dan Diamond to discuss Kavanaugh's background and why he was picked, how the selection is playing across key advocacy groups that could sway the nomination and what's next for the Court and Congress.

REFERENCED ON THE PODCAST

Kavanaugh's track record as an appeals court judge: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/07/09/brett-kavanaugh-track-record-675294

Adam's story on the reaction to Kavanaugh's selection: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/07/09/brett-kavanaugh-conservative-policies-675460

POLITICO's reporting on how Kavanaugh quickly emerged as a front-runner for the seat: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/07/09/brett-kavanaugh-trump-private-meeting-706137

POLITICO's Josh Gerstein dug into Kavanaugh's decision on abortion access for a teen immigrant, a ruling that's split conservatives. https://www.politico.com/story/2018/07/06/trump-supreme-court-pick-kavanaugh-immigrant-abortion-teen-700856

Jen's April 2018 reporting on how opponents of Roe v. Wade were preparing for this moment: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/04/15/abortion-trump-supreme-court-roe-wade-473601

Jen's story on abortion cases that could come before the Supreme Court: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/07/03/trump-supreme-court-pick-abortion-667924

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Roundup: HHS and the migrant crisis, the ACA and bonus Atul Gawande Q&A

Thu, 05 Jul 2018 14:03:00 -0000

A federal judge on June 26 ordered the Trump administration to reunite migrant families that it separated at the border. But days later, there's been little progress, and POLITICO's Paul Demko and Renuka Rayasam join Dan Diamond to discuss what has — and still hasn't — happened at HHS (starts at the 1:30 mark). Paul also discussed the latest enrollment numbers from the Affordable Care Act marketplaces and the state of Obamacare heading into the midterm elections (starts at the 12:45 mark).

Then after the break, Dan sits down with Atul Gawande in a previously unaired segment to discuss Atul's thoughts on long-term care and how he sees health reform (starts at the 26:45 mark).

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Renu's story on medical workers' concerns about migrant families' health risks: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/06/20/some-of-the-kids-i-spoke-to-were-traumatized-some-could-barely-speak-638329

Dan and Ted Hesson's story on HHS' slow response to reuniting families: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/07/02/separated-families-border-children-reunite-664674

Paul's story on how ACA rate hikes will be a headache for Republicans: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/06/24/obamacare-rate-increase-republicans-election-642386

Atul's New Yorker article on whether health care is a right: https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2017/10/02/is-health-care-a-right

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Roundup: The courts, Congress and the migrant crisis with Bob Carey

Wed, 27 Jun 2018 05:35:00 -0000

"What has been done to these children, to forcibly separate small children from a parent... it's what totalitarian regimes do as a form of torture... We all should be outraged."

Bob Carey, who ran the Office of Refugee Resettlement between 2015 and 2017, talks with Dan Diamond about how the office works, why it belongs inside HHS and the looming challenges of trying to put families back together again (starts at the 23:30 mark).

But first, POLITICO's Jennifer Haberkorn and Adam Cancryn join Dan to discuss what the Supreme Court's latest rulings mean for health care, review how the migrant crisis is playing out on Capitol Hill and dive into Congress' efforts to put together opioid bills (starts at the 1:30 mark).

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

The Supreme Court's ruling on crisis pregnancy centers: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/06/26/supreme-court-crisis-pregnancy-centers-673183

Jen and Brianna Ehley's story on lawmakers rushing to write bipartisan opioid bills: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/06/16/lawmakers-opioid-bills-midterms-624926

Adam's story on the special interests and companies that stand to gain from the House's opioid package: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/06/22/house-opioid-bills-lobbying-637695

HHS Secretary Alex Azar was grilled on Capitol Hill over his agency's plan to reunite migrant families: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/06/26/azar-separated-families-673186

Scott Lloyd, Bob Carey's successor at the HHS refugee office, built his career as an anti-abortion advocate: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/06/21/scott-lloyd-anti-abortion-separated-kids-642094

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Bonus: Andy Slavitt and Cindy Gillespie on immigration, Medicaid, the elections and more

Fri, 22 Jun 2018 18:01:00 -0000

Live from the Aspen Ideas Festival’s “Spotlight Health,” ex-Obama official Andy Slavitt and Arkansas health chief Cindy Gillespie address how HHS should quickly reunify separated families, look for common ground on Medicaid work requirements and debate the future of the ACA.

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The fall of Theranos, with 'Bad Blood' author John Carreyrou

Wed, 20 Jun 2018 22:00:00 -0000

In 2015, the Wall Street Journal's John Carreyrou revealed that the blood tests developed by Theranos — the $9 billion company led by Elizabeth Holmes — didn't work. Now John's out with "Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley Startup," a book that offers new details about Holmes, her fraud and her efforts to kill his investigation.

John joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss how he got the story and walk through the Theranos timeline (starts at the 1:35 mark), how Holmes was able to attract staff, investors and media attention (12:00), why government regulators didn't spot the fraud (21:30), why staff were scared to blow the whistle (28:15), what Carreyrou thinks of reporters who missed the story and more on his journalistic process (33:30).

At the end, there's a lighting round of listener-submitted questions at 43:30.

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

John's initial story on Theranos in 2015: https://www.wsj.com/articles/theranos-has-struggled-with-blood-tests-1444881901

Fortune Magazine's 2014 cover story on Holmes, one of many laudatory articles: http://fortune.com/2014/06/12/theranos-blood-holmes/

John's new book, "Bad Blood." https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078VW3VM7/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1

Federal prosecutors filed criminal charges against Holmes and her lieutenant Sunny Balwani this month: https://www.wsj.com/articles/u-s-files-criminal-charges-against-theranoss-elizabeth-holmes-ramesh-balwani-1529096005

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The rise of JUUL, with Tevi Troy

Wed, 13 Jun 2018 22:19:00 -0000

Tevi Troy helped lead the nation's health department under President George W. Bush. Now he's helping steer JUUL — the nation's most popular e-cigarette company — through the Washington policymaking process and public health scrutiny.

"Using a JUUL is worse than doing nothing," Troy acknowledged on the podcast. But"if we can get people to switch away from [traditional] cigarettes… there's a potentially huge public health benefit."

In conversation with POLITICO’s Dan Diamond, Tevi explains why he joined JUUL and how he sees the company’s mission (starts at the 2:00 mark), why JUUL has a special responsibility given its market-leading position (6:00), the public health risks of e-cigarettes and resulting FDA scrutiny (8:30), the politics of vaping (15:30), the New Yorker’s article on JUUL (18:30), why opening a JUUL feels like unboxing an Apple iPod (20:00), and Tevi's views on the current HHS, having served as deputy HHS secretary during the George W. Bush administration (24:00).

Then in the recurring “Steal My Job” segment, Tevi talks about how he became a published book author and offers tips for anyone interested in writing a book (36:20).

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Some of FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb's March 2017 comments on e-cigarettes. https://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm601690.htm

Jia Tolentino's New Yorker article on JUUL. https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2018/05/14/the-promise-of-vaping-and-the-rise-of-juul

Tevi's books, "What Jefferson Read, Ike Watched, and Obama Tweeted: 200 Years of Popular Culture in the White House." https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00APDG0VK/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1

and "Shall We Wake the President?: Two Centuries of Disaster Management from the Oval Office." https://www.amazon.com/Shall-Wake-President-Centuries-Management-ebook/dp/B01LWCUH4N/ref=la_B001HPAYYE_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1528929225&sr=1-1

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Sen. Bill Cassidy

Wed, 06 Jun 2018 16:02:00 -0000

For the past year, Sen. Bill Cassidy has played a pivotal role in Republicans’ health care strategy. The doctor-turned-lawmaker helped craft the Graham-Cassidy proposal to repeal the Affordable Care Act, sparking outrage from public health groups (and a certain talk show host) who warned that the legislation would lead to millions more people being uninsured.

Now Cassidy’s out with a new package of ideas that the Louisiana Republican argues will “make health care affordable again.” The wide-ranging blueprint includes pushing price transparency, studying racial disparities and resurrecting the stalled bill to prop up the Affordable Care Act’s individual insurance market.

Cassidy joined POLITICO’s Dan Diamond to discuss the reception to his new proposals (starts at the 1:40 mark), why he wants more Americans to use health savings accounts (3:30), why Cassidy is betting big on price transparency (5:30), the fight over the ACA’s high premiums and Democrats’ concerns about short-term health plans (10:30), his criticism of monopolies in health care (16:45), why Cassidy wants HHS to investigate social determinants of health (19:45) and how he’s blasting a “rigged” health system (21:45).

After the break, Cassidy discussed whether there should be another ACA repeal vote this year (25:40), what he and the GOP learned from last year’s health care fights (27:45) and his feud with Jimmy Kimmel and public health groups (31:00).

Then in the recurring “Steal My Job” segment, Cassidy discussed his decision to leave medicine to get into politics and who’s influenced his thinking about health care (36:20).

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Bill Cassidy’s new plan: “Ideas to Make Health Care Affordable Again.” https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Dr%20Bill%20Cassidy%20-%20Make%20Health%20Care%20Affordable%20Again.pdf

Hospitals have reported a rise in bad debt as patients increasingly shift to high-deductible health plans. https://www.hfma.org/Content.aspx?id=50653

Cassidy referenced a CalPERS initiative to use reference pricing to lower prices of many procedures, which Austin Frakt wrote about at the New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2016/08/09/upshot/how-common-procedures-got-20-percent-cheaper-for-many-californians.html

However, a 2017 Health Affairs study concluded that CalPERS’ price transparency tool didn’t reduce patients’ spending. https://www.healthaffairs.org/doi/10.1377/hlthaff.2016.1636

The health insurance lobby criticized the Trump administration's push on short-term health plans. https://www.ahip.org/ahip-responds-to-administrations-proposed-rule-on-short-term-health-plans/

Industry expert John Gorman appeared on POLITICO's podcast last month, where he said that short-term plans would be "junk" insurance. https://simplecast.com/s/2d8d7d17

Dan’s 2017 story: “Kimmel, not Cassidy, is right on health care, analysts say.” https://www.politico.com/story/2017/09/20/jimmy-kimmel-bill-cassidy-obamacare-repeal-242932

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Is Trump winning the war on abortion?

Thu, 24 May 2018 05:03:00 -0000

Two years ago, anti-abortion leaders attacked then-candidate Donald Trump as a “pro-choice” liberal who couldn’t be trusted. This week, the movement's most prominent leader praised Trump as “the most pro-life president in history” as he spoke at the Susan B. Anthony List’s gala. How did Trump became an unlikely anti-abortion hero, and what has Trump actually accomplished?

First, POLITICO’s Jennifer Haberkorn joins Dan Diamond to discuss Trump’s recent moves, including this week’s changes to the Title X program (starts at the 1:55 mark), and why public health experts say Trump’s proposed limits on abortion amount to a “gag rule” on physicians (6:35).

Then Marjorie Dannenfelser, who leads SBA List and chaired Trump’s “Pro-Life Coalition” during his campaign, discusses why anti-abortion groups are surging under Trump (starts at the 12:50 mark), the passionate politics around abortion issues (13:45), how she went from Trump critic to top Trump supporter (20:30), her relationship with the White House (25:10), the anti-abortion strategy ahead of the midterms (26:25) and whether being “pro-life” includes supporting measures like gun control (31:15).

Then stick around after the credits for Marjorie’s thoughts on how to build an advocacy organization in the latest “Steal My Job” segment (35:30).

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

Jen Haberkorn and Chris Cadelago’s story on how the anti-abortion movement came to love Trump: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/05/22/anti-abortion-forces-trump-561191

Jen’s story on how abstinence advocate Valerie Huber gained new powers at HHS to manage the Title X program: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/03/06/abstinence-advocate-family-planning-dollars-389453

Equity Forward’s Mary Alice Carter appeared on PULSE CHECK in April and criticized the Trump administration’s abortion policies: https://simplecast.com/s/e5b29eb9 (Starts at the 1:50 mark).

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HHS Secretary Alex Azar

Thu, 17 May 2018 19:12:00 -0000

One week ago, HHS Secretary Alex Azar joined President Donald Trump in the Rose Garden to announce his signature initiative: A long-awaited plan to lower drug prices.

The secretary’s been on a tour to explain the plan — which has faced resistance from pharma and was panned by some Wall Street analysts — and POLITICO’s Dan Diamond joined Azar at HHS headquarters to review the latest developments.

On this episode, Azar discusses where drug prices rank as an administration priority and how he wants taxpayers to judge success (starts at the 1:40 mark), why the plan doesn’t include importing drugs from Canada, an idea that Trump supported as a presidential candidate (5:15), why Azar wants to put drug prices in TV ads (9:00), whether he was prepared for the backlash to the plan (10:15), why he suggested that the media doesn’t want the drug plan to be perceived as successful (12:10), how Azar wants to combine Medicare Part B and Part D negotiations (13:10), and what Azar sees as a former pharma executive (16:45).

Then stick around after the credits for a closing thought from Azar on his time at HHS (19:30).

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

MENTIONED ON THE SHOW

The Trump administration's "American Patients First" drug pricing plan: https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/AmericanPatientsFirst.pdf

Former Obama appointee Tim Gronniger, who steered CMS’ failed efforts to reform drug prices in 2016, joined POLITICO's podcast this week to share his perspective on the Trump plan: https://simplecast.com/s/7b2ddfbc

The Community Oncology Alliance warned against the Trump plan: https://www.communityoncology.org/2018/05/16/may-16-coa-physician-survey-medicare-part-b-proposals-will-harm-patients-increase-costs-and-bureaucracy/

Vermont became the first state this week to permit drug imports from Canada: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/05/16/vermont-drug-imports-canada-546107

The FDA approved a biosimilar for an anemia drug this week: https://www.upi.com/FDA-approves-biosimilar-drug-for-anemia-treatment/4561526408086/

Azar appeared on the “Hugh Hewitt” radio show to discuss the drug plan this week: http://www.hughhewitt.com/hhs-secretary-alex-azar/

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Trump's drug plan, explained

Thu, 17 May 2018 01:22:00 -0000

President Donald Trump finally unveiled his plan to lower drug prices last week, and on this week’s episode, POLITICO looks closer at what’s in the strategy and how it builds (or doesn’t) on the Obama administration’s own efforts.

First, POLITICO’s Sarah Karlin-Smith discusses her reporting on the Trump administration’s drug plan (starts at the 2:05 mark), what’s in the bill and how it’s being received.

Then after the break, Tim Gronniger — who served as CMS Chief of Staff and led the agency’s work on drug spending under the Obama administration — discusses his impression of the Trump plan (starts at the 14:05 mark), and what he learned from Obama-era efforts to try and lower drug prices, which met with significant resistance and were largely stalled.

Stick around for a new segment — “Steal My Job” (starts at the 37:00 mark) — where Tim discusses how he got his jobs in the Obama administration and tips for people interested in a similar career path.

GLOSSARY OF TERMS ON THIS EPISODE

Average sales price (ASP): A manufacturer's sales of a drug divided by the total number of units, which is used to help set government reimbursement.

Biosimilars: A type of product that’s highly similar to existing FDA-approved biologic drugs (like Remicade) but intended to offer a lower-cost alternative.

Pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs): A third-party manager of a prescription drug program that helps insurers and others negotiate on drug prices. Drug companies say that PBMs are middlemen that drive up prices.

STORIES REFERENCED ON THIS EPISODE

Adam Cancryn and David Pittman’s story on the Trump drug plan: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/05/11/trump-administration-drug-price-plan-535667

Sarah’s piece on Trump’s ‘America First’ agenda for drug pricing: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/05/09/trump-drug-pricing-prescriptions-514925

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Building a better safety net with Veenu Aulakh

Thu, 10 May 2018 03:55:00 -0000

The health care safety net is rarely glamorous, but for tens of millions of Americans, it's often necessary. These low-income patients depend on Medicaid, public hospitals and other services for care — although safety-net resources have been increasingly strained in recent years, partly because of decisions made in Washington.

On this episode of PULSE CHECK, we meet one person trying to make the safety net stronger: Veenu Aulakh, the executive director of the Center for Care Innovations (www.careinnovations.org), which tests safety-net ideas and works to implement solutions across California and beyond.

In this conversation (recorded in Oakland in January), Veenu talks about her center’s mission (starts at the 1:10 mark), the state of the health care safety net (4:00), the focus on “innovation” buzzwords in health care (7:30), how consolidation is affecting safety-net patients (9:30), how policymaking in Washington is playing out on the front lines in Oakland and beyond (13:30), and why Veenu walked away from a Fortune 500 health care company to work on safety-net projects (17:45).

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Talking Walmart, UnitedHealth, Amazon and more with John Gorman

Thu, 03 May 2018 02:14:00 -0000

The Trump administration is sending mixed signals to health insurers, pushing controversial changes to the ACA markets while giving big pay bumps in Medicare Advantage. Meanwhile, companies like UnitedHealth, Walmart and even Amazon are circling deals that could shake up the industry.

To make sense of this moment, this week’s PULSE CHECK features John Gorman, the head of the Gorman Health Group — one of Washington’s most thoughtful experts on the health care industry and government health programs.

John sits down with POLITICO’s Dan Diamond to discuss why he left government to open his own consulting firm (starts at the 1:25 mark), the growth of Medicare Advantage (5:30), the state of private insurers and the rise of UnitedHealth (8:30), the CVS-Aetna deal (15:45), Walmart-Humana’s possible deal and Amazon’s looming presence (20:00), the Trump administration’s impact on insurers (22:20), and a quiet change to Medicare Advantage that could let health plans tackle social determinants of health (28:15).

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

Referenced on the podcast:

Zach Tracer’s Bloomberg story on UnitedHealth’s physician acquisitions: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2018-04-09/30-000-strong-and-counting-unitedhealth-gathers-a-doctor-army

POLITICO’s Darius Tahir and Paul Demko reported on the CVS-Aetna deal: https://www.politico.com/story/2017/12/04/aetna-cvs-merger-drugs-205514

Dan’s look at Walmart’s potential purchase of Humana: https://www.politico.com/newsletters/politico-pulse/2018/03/30/walmart-might-buy-humana-what-it-means-154555

Incoming AHIP leader Matt Eyles’s PULSE CHECK interview on the insurance industry and the Trump administration: https://simplecast.com/s/4e376b02

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Why Obama's Datapalooza is still thriving under Trump

Wed, 25 Apr 2018 19:01:00 -0000

The Trump administration has discarded or reworked a number of Obama-era programs. But this week's Health Datapalooza — an annual conference launched by Obama officials and hosted by Academy Health — has received the current administration's full support, a reminder that the desire to improve data can trump partisan politics.

On the podcast, Academy Health CEO Lisa Simpson joined POLITICO’s Dan Diamond to discuss the Datapalooza conference (starts at the 1:25 mark), why the Trump administration continues to supports the event and how the White House has shaped the current climate for researchers (3:20), why Academy Health focuses on "health services research" and how Lisa would like academic research to change (8:15) and the state of data, particularly as Silicon Valley firms eye health care (13:30).

After the break, POLITICO’s Mohana Ravindranath discusses her reporting on the Trump administration's data-access initiatives. (Starts at the 18:45 mark.)

Dan also remembers POLITICO’s Brett Norman, who died last week at age 43. (Starts at the 29:35 mark.)

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Meet America’s next top insurance lobbyist

Thu, 19 Apr 2018 03:29:00 -0000

In six weeks, Matt Eyles will become the CEO of America’s Health Insurance Plans, taking over for Marilyn Tavenner — one of the most prominent seats in health policy.

But before that, Eyles sat down with POLITICO to preview his agenda, critique the Trump administration’s changes to the insurance markets and rebuff concerns that AHIP has lost influence in Washington.

On the podcast, Eyles discussed what it’s like to be a lobbyist in the Trump era and how he arrived at AHIP (starts at the 1:30 mark); how his leadership will differ from Tavenner’s (6:05); his thoughts on UnitedHealthcare and other top insurers choosing to leave AHIP, and whether his organization has lost juice on Capitol Hill (9:00); his views on Medicaid and why AHIP is touting the public program's benefits (16:40); the Trump administration’s changes to Obamacare and the insurance markets (19:40); the employer insurance market (26:30); and insurers seeking mergers with players like CVS Health (27:30).

After the break, POLITICO insurance reporter Paul Demko joins Dan Diamond to analyze Eyles’ comments, discuss the future of AHIP and review the Trump administration’s insurance market changes. (Starts at the 30:00 mark).

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

Referenced on the podcast:

The 2016 episode of PULSE CHECK with Marilyn Tavenner: https://simplecast.com/s/7e1c82f7

Paul’s story on Obamacare insurers having their best year yet — despite Trump: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/03/17/obamacare-insurers-2017-profit-analysis-422559

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The (possible) Medicaid expansion next door

Thu, 12 Apr 2018 01:59:00 -0000

When the Affordable Care Act was first signed into law, the state of Virginia led the fight against it. Eight years later, Virginia — with state Democrats on the upswing — is on the verge of expanding Medicaid, and more than 300,000 state residents could get covered as a result.

First, POLITICO reviews the windy road that led to 32 states saying yes to Medicaid expansion. Then Del. Alfonso Lopez, the whip for Virginia House Democrats, explains what's ahead as he and his colleagues work to finalize a Medicaid expansion deal. (Starts at the 8:20 mark.)

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback — especially on an episode like this one, where we tried something a little different? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

Referenced on the podcast:

Virginia Republicans said the backlash to Medicaid expansion has been milder than expected: https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/virginia-politics/republican-medicaid-expanders-in-va-say-backlash-is-milder-than-expected/2018/03/29/dde9e0fc-329d-11e8-94fa-32d48460b955_story.html

The Commonwealth Institute for Fiscal Analysis is arguing the benefits of Medicaid expansion in Virginia: http://thehalfsheet.org/post/172599067503/evidence-shows-medicaid-expansion-is-not-a-budget

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The new watchdogs trying to hold Trump accountable

Thu, 05 Apr 2018 17:41:00 -0000

The Trump administration has ushered in a new wave of conservative policies and personnel. But it’s also led to the rise of watchdog groups dedicated to investigating Trump and his agencies. And on this episode of PULSE CHECK, leaders of two new watchdogs discuss why they launched and what they’ve learned.

First, Mary Alice Carter of Equity Forward joined POLITICO’s Dan Diamond to discuss her organization’s focus on the HHS officials overseeing reproductive health, and why she thinks Trump’s health policy moves are especially dangerous. (Starts at the 1:50 mark.)

Then, Toly Rinberg and Rachel Bergman of the Sunlight Foundation’s Web Integrity Project discuss how their fledgling effort to track changes to federal webpages led them to Washington, D.C., and what they’ve uncovered at HHS and beyond. (Starts at the 17:10 mark.)

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

Referenced on the podcast:

HHS’ move to remove lesbian and bisexual health content from its women’s health website, uncovered by the Web Integrity Project: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/03/21/hhs-strips-lesbian-bisexual-health-content-from-womens-health-website-430123

Equity Forward's focus on Scott Lloyd, the director of the HHS Office of Refugee Resettlement: https://www.equityfwd.org/research/personnel-policy-meet-anti-abortion-crusader-scott-lloyd/

Dan’s podcast with Seattle public health director Patty Hayes, who’s suing HHS over its move to cancel the teen pregnancy prevention program: https://simplecast.com/s/46ec2019

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‘Every first responder is also a survivor’: Puerto Rico, six months later

Thu, 29 Mar 2018 03:16:00 -0000

Hurricane Maria made landfall in Puerto Rico nearly 200 days ago. For many residents — still dealing with power outages and no access to clean water — the disaster never ended.

And while the national spotlight has largely moved on, Puerto Rico remains one of the worst public health crises unfolding in the United States. This week’s episode of PULSE CHECK tries to unpack the structural problems with the nation's disaster response and what it means for residents’ health.

First, POLITICO’s Danny Vinik sits down with Dan Diamond to discuss his reporting on how the Trump administration favored Texas over Puerto Rico after devastating hurricanes struck. (Starts at the 1:15 mark.)

Then Dr. Oxiris Barbot, First Deputy Commissioner of New York City’s health department, joins PULSE CHECK to explain why she’s so concerned about Puerto Rico’s ongoing health challenges and what she’s learned on her trips to the island. (Starts at the 13:40 mark.)

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

Referenced on the podcast:

Danny’s story on how Trump favored Texas over Puerto Rico in hurricane response: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/03/27/donald-trump-fema-hurricane-maria-response-480557

Reuters looked at Puerto Rico’s Medicaid shortfall: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-puertorico-medicaid/puerto-rico-seeks-help-as-medicaid-crisis-deepens-after-maria-idUSKBN1D158Y

Quartz reports on the spike in suicide rates on the island: https://qz.com/1239417/after-hurricane-maria-suicide-rates-rose-by-almost-a-third-in-puerto-rico/

As mentioned on the show, PULSE CHECK listener AZ-CPA praised this recent episode on religious freedom in health care: https://simplecast.com/s/4ed0877f

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Inside the White House with Paul Winfree

Thu, 22 Mar 2018 20:13:00 -0000

Paul Winfree spent a year as one of the Trump administration’s key policy leaders, with a bunch of big titles — he was Deputy Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, the Deputy Director of the Domestic Policy Council, and the Director of Budget Policy.

Now Paul’s back at the Heritage Foundation, and he caught up with POLITICO’s Dan Diamond to share his view into Washington’s policy battles and what he learned from working in the White House.

On the podcast, Paul explains why he took the job amid all the scrutiny of Trump (starts at the 1:26 mark), what it was like inside the administration during the ACA repeal-and-replace debate (5:30), what the White House should’ve done differently on health care (14:10), how Paul thinks about the ACA now (22:00), his thoughts on entitlement reforms (27:20) and what he learned from his time in the administration (30:40).

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Former HHS Secretary Tommy Thompson

Wed, 14 Mar 2018 22:12:00 -0000

As Wisconsin governor, Tommy Thompson instituted welfare reform that became a national model. As HHS secretary, he created Medicare's Part D program. And as a boss, he played a pivotal role in the career of Alex Azar — who recently took over as the latest HHS secretary.

Thompson sat down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss lessons from his four years running HHS under the George W. Bush administration (starts at the 1:45 mark), how he views the current HHS and what he's told Secretary Alex Azar (12:45), why he supports FDA reform and Medicaid work requirements (15:20), his post-government career in the private sector (18:10) and how he sees the current political environment (20:45).

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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How the industry (and this ex-Obama official) is reacting to Alex Azar's remarks

Thu, 08 Mar 2018 05:08:00 -0000

HHS Secretary Alex Azar laid out an ambitious plan to promote value-based care this week, pledging that there's "no turning back" when it comes to reforming how hospitals and doctors get paid.

What does it all mean? Karen Murphy's in position to know: She's the Chief Innovation Officer at Geisinger Health System, but she also previously worked in the Obama administration, helping to oversee value-based care efforts, and served as Pennsylvania's Secretary of Health too.

Karen discussed how value-based care is playing out at the provider level, what she makes of Azar's comments on value-based care and medical marijuana, what Geisinger is doing on the biggest public health challenges and why she thinks every health care worker needs to do a stint in government. (Starts at the 18:20 mark.)

But first: POLITICO's Sarah Karlin-Smith and Rachana Pradhan joined Dan Diamond to discuss the latest Trump administration changes to Medicaid, the most recent developments related to the opioid crisis and HHS' evolving communication strategy (Starts at the 1:50 mark).

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

Referenced on the podcast:

Sarah's story on Donald Trump's suggestion of using the death penalty to stop the opioid epidemic: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/03/01/donald-trump-death-penalty-suggestion-opioid-crisis-376176

HHS Secretary Alex Azar's remarks on value-based care: https://www.hhs.gov/about/leadership/secretary/speeches/2018-speeches/remarks-on-value-based-transformation-to-the-federation-of-american-hospitals.html

Penn professors Lawton Burns and Mark Pauly's article on value-based care: https://www.milbank.org/quarterly/articles/transformation-health-care-industry-curb-enthusiasm/

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Why Seattle's health director is suing HHS

Thu, 01 Mar 2018 08:27:00 -0000

HHS last summer made a move that shocked public health leaders: The Trump administration abruptly canceled $200 million-plus in funding for dozens of teen pregnancy prevention projects around the country. HHS said the projects weren't working, but public health advocates argue that HHS' decision was politically motivated - just the latest round in Republicans' war on Planned Parenthood.

One leader who's thrown herself into the fight: Patty Hayes, who oversees public health for 2 million people in Seattle and the surrounding King County - and sued HHS to try to get the money back.

Patty joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss how moves in Washington, D.C., have affected her work in Washington State (starts at the 1:30 mark), how she views the Trump administration and why she's suing HHS (11:00), her local perspective on the opioid fight (19:55), the public health challenges that get overshadowed (26:00), and her own career as nurse-turned-public health leader and why she joined Twitter as @PurpleHayesRN (33:00).

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

Stories and audio referenced on the podcast:

DD's story on the conservative leaders on the rise at HHS: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/01/22/trump-religious-activists-hhs-351735

Last week's Pulse Check with Rachel Lazer of Americans United for Separation of Church and State: https://simplecast.com/s/4ed0877f

Last summer's Pulse Check with NYC health commissioner Mary Bassett and Chicago health commissioner Julie Morita: https://simplecast.com/s/ab9b9df6

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Religious freedom in health care and news roundup

Fri, 23 Feb 2018 04:08:00 -0000

As a candidate, Donald Trump promised religious conservatives that their voices would be heard - and as president, he's repeatedly delivered through executive orders and agency moves that have been hailed by Christian conservatives.

Rachel Laser, the new head of Americans United for Separation of Church and State, joins the podcast to review how Christian conservatives came to support Trump (starts at the 31:30 mark), how the Trump administration and specifically HHS have pushed policies for religious liberty (36:30), the appropriate role of religion in the public space (44:20), and the role of religious conservatives among HHS leadership (51:25).

But first: POLITICO's Jennifer Haberkorn and Adam Cancryn join Dan to review Congress' latest changes to Obamacare (starts at the 1:45 mark), how new HHS Secretary Alex Azar is leading the agency (10:45), Mayo Clinic CEO John Noseworthy's retirement and hospitals' role in Washington (22:45), and which state is arguably most "important" in the current policy debate (27:25).

We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

Stories referenced on the podcast:

Jen's story on Congress removing the ACA's cost checks: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/02/19/obamacare-cost-checks-spending-deal-352346

Jen and Paul Demko's story on the IRS issuing millions of dollars in ACA employer mandate fines: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/02/20/trump-irs-obamacare-fines-tax-penalties-353614

Adam's story on Azar's priorities at HHS: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/01/24/alex-azar-secretary-health-confirmed-trump-nominee-365471

DD's story on HHS dismantling LGBT-friendly protections: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/02/19/trump-lgbt-rights-discrimination-353774

Jen's story on HHS working with a conservative group on an anti-Planned Parenthood policy: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/02/12/trump-hhs-planned-parenthood-policy-338084

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Sam Quinones, author of 'Dreamland'

Thu, 15 Feb 2018 19:13:00 -0000

Sam Quinones is the author of "Dreamland" — an award-winning book about the rise of the opioid crisis, which shows no signs of slowing. There were more than 64,000 deaths last year from drug overdoses, including opioids.

Sam last month sat down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss how the opioid crisis got started, how he discovered the story and what he thinks health leaders and politicians should do next.

Note: The audio quality on Sam's end is a little rough, but we wanted to bring you this conversation given the. And since Sam sat down for an interview, there have been a few developments — chiefly, the Trump administration this week proposed adding $13 billion in new funding to the opioid fight.

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CDC Director Brenda Fitzgerald resigns and Amazon-JPM-Berkshire Hathaway ramp up

Thu, 01 Feb 2018 00:51:00 -0000

As CDC director, Brenda Fitzgerald should've been one of the nation's loudest voices on opioids and public health issues. Instead, she'd been remarkably quiet - recusing herself repeatedly from congressional hearings and other initiatives because of financial conflicts - and on Wednesday, she resigned after seven months in the job and one day after POLITICO revealed that she had bought tobacco stocks while running the CDC.

Three of the POLITICO reporters who broke the Fitzgerald news - Brianna Ehley, Jennifer Haberkorn and Sarah Karlin-Smith - join PULSE CHECK to reveal details of their reporting (starts at the 1:45 mark), why Fitzgerald had lost confidence of lawmakers (7:30), what the Fitzgerald and Tom Price scandals say about the administration (10:30), and what this says about what's next for HHS under Alex Azar and the CDC (15:15).

Then after the break, the Advisory Board Company's Rob Lazerow (starts at the 18:20 mark) sits down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss a much hyped story this week: Amazon, JP Morgan and Berkshire Hathaway's announcement that they're moving into health care.

We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

Stories referenced on the podcast:

Brianna and Sarah's story on Fitzgerald's resignation: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/01/31/cdc-director-resigns-over-financial-conflicts-380206

Sarah and Brianna's story on Fitzgerald's tobacco stock holdings: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/01/30/cdc-director-tobacco-stocks-after-appointment-316245

Jen and Brianna's original story on Fitzgerald's conflicts: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/01/18/cdc-director-avoids-congressional-testimony-297284

Paul Demko's story on Amazon, J.P. Morgan and Berkshire Hathaway's health care venture: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/01/30/amazon-health-care-business-316314

Rob's Advisory Board analysis of the Amazon et al deal: https://www.advisory.com/daily-briefing/2018/01/30/3-companies#ABCtake

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The Alex Azar era begins and Providence St. Joseph CEO Rod Hochman

Thu, 25 Jan 2018 01:13:00 -0000

Alex Azar was confirmed as the 24th Secretary of the Health and Human Services on Wednesday, about four months after Tom Price's abrupt departure.

In a news roundup, POLITICO's Adam Cancryn, Paul Demko and Dan Diamond discuss Azar's confirmation, what his priorities are and what's next for the agency (starts at 2:20).

Then after the break, listen to Dan's interview with Rod Hochman, CEO of Providence St. Joseph Health, one of the nation's largest hospital systems, where they discuss care delivery, health care venture capital and the hospital business model (starts at 21:45). The conversation was recorded at the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference earlier this month.

We'd appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

Stories referenced on the podcast:

Adam's story on Alex Azar's confirmation: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/01/24/alex-azar-secretary-health-confirmed-trump-nominee-365471

Dan's story on the religious activists on the rise at HHS: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/01/22/trump-religious-activists-hhs-351735

Paul's Pro story on the latest ACA enrollment figures: https://www.politicopro.com/health-care/article/2018/01/stagnant-enrollment-in-state-exchanges-masks-shake-up-in-marketplace-behavior-292657

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Karen DeSalvo and mini-news roundup

Sun, 21 Jan 2018 19:10:00 -0000

Karen DeSalvo was a top HHS official in the Obama administration, where she spent months simultaneously running the Office of National Coordinator for Health IT and serving as the acting assistant secretary for health. She also will be a familiar voice for longtime PULSE CHECK listeners: Karen appeared on an early episode of PULSE CHECK, where she talked about her work and her life story. (You can find a link to that earlier episode in the show notes below.)

Karen and POLITICO's Dan Diamond caught up at the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference to discuss what she's been up to in the year since leaving HHS (starts at the 1:35 mark), how her old departments are performing under the Trump administration (starts at 7:15), whether the focus on social determinants of health is overblown (starts at 14:00), and her latest gig at the new Dell Medical School (starts at 22:00).

Then after the break, Dan runs through some of last week's big health care stories that got overshadowed by Congress' fight over a government shutdown (starts at the 23:45 mark).

We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

Stories referenced on the podcast:

Karen DeSalvo's first appearance on PULSE CHECK in June 2016, where she talked at length about her work and career path: https://simplecast.com/s/14426be4

A summary of Karen's comments on health IT on that earlier episode: https://www.politico.com/story/2016/06/desalvo-we-are-seeing-the-returns-on-ehr-investments-224064

Jennifer Haberkorn and Brianna Ehley's story on the CDC director's financial conflicts of interest: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/01/18/cdc-director-avoids-congressional-testimony-297284

Sarah Karlin-Smith and Brianna's story on the Trump administration targeting the drug policy office: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/01/18/trump-targets-drug-policy-office-297422

Dan and Jen's story on HHS' push to institute new protections for health workers with religious objections: https://www.politico.com/story/2018/01/16/conscience-abortion-transgender-patients-health-care-289542

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Live from JPM: Venture capitalist Bob Kocher

Fri, 12 Jan 2018 06:11:00 -0000

The health care business world gathered at the J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference this week, with thousands of attendees haggling over deals and gossiping over drinks in San Francisco.

One of the standouts at the conference: venture capitalist Bob Kocher, a doctor and Obama administration alumnus known for his provocative thinking and Silicon Valley influence. At Venrock, Bob focuses on health IT and services, with investments in companies like Aledade, Castlight, Stride Health and Zenefits.

Speaking with POLITICO’s Dan Diamond, Bob discussed his approach to investing in health care (Starts at the 1:20 mark), how he got into venture capital (8:15), the difference between innovating in government and the private sector (13:45), the sector’s never-ending job growth (17:15), how the current administration is affecting the health care market (21:15) and his 2018 predictions (28:00). There’s also a quick lightning round at 30:15.

Then after the break, Dan caught up with Victoria Colliver, POLITICO’s California correspondent for health care, on how the JPM conference went and the biggest health policy stories coming out of the state this year. (Starts at the 32:15 mark.)

Note: This podcast was recorded on location, and that’s why the audio sounds rougher than usual.

We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

Stories referenced on the podcast:

Dan’s story, with Bob’s quotes, on the ACA’s failure to cut wasteful jobs: https://www.politico.com/agenda/story/2016/07/what-is-the-effect-of-obamacare-economy-000164

Bob’s predictions for health care in 2018: https://www.cnbc.com/2017/11/27/venrocks-health-investors-make-predictions-for-2018.html

Victoria’s story on California’s effort to shore up the ACA: https://www.politico.com/story/2017/11/01/obamacare-california-new-york-coastal-244386

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FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb

Thu, 04 Jan 2018 06:08:00 -0000

FDA’s influence can be summed up in a simple statistic: About 20 cents of every dollar that Americans spend is on a product — whether food, drug or tobacco — that’s regulated by the agency. But that enormous responsibility has also exposed the FDA to a broad array of critics, including President Donald Trump, who last year bashed the agency’s reviews as “slow and burdensome.”

Trump’s pick to reform the agency? Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, who’s steered FDA since last May to the praise of conservatives — and, surprisingly in this political moment, some progressives who think he’s successfully balanced political pressures with public health priorities.

Gottlieb joined POLITICO’s Dan Diamond to reflect on the agency’s 2017 achievements and why he joined the Trump administration (Starts at the 1:30 mark), the FDA’s nutrition policy and its role in keeping food safe (9:30), whether FDA is approving too many drugs (13:15), his to-do list for 2018 and looming policy priorities (19:00), the ongoing crisis in Puerto Rico and the effect on medical product development (22:10), how his role as a sometime-critic of FDA has squared with running the agency (25:45), FDA’s tobacco strategy (27:15), and a quick lightning round on Gottlieb’s infamous skinny jeans and other not-so-pressing questions (28:15).

Then after the break, POLITICO senior food and agriculture reporter Helena Bottemiller Evich and pharma reporter Sarah Karlin-Smith analyze Gottlieb’s comments and discuss the looming challenges for the agency. (Starts at the 30:00 mark.)

We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

Stories referenced on the podcast:

Matthew Herper’s review of Gottlieb’s top articles for Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/sites/matthewherper/2017/03/10/the-best-stories-scott-gottlieb-the-next-fda-commissioner-wrote-for-forbes/#5e1234d1c523

Gottlieb’s January 2016 article on the need for FDA to change its regulation of novel technologies: https://www.forbes.com/sites/scottgottlieb/2016/01/12/fda-needs-to-change-how-it-regulates-novel-technologies/#45a8b372191e

Sarah’s look at what’s ahead for pharma in 2018: https://www.politico.com/newsletters/prescription-pulse/2018/01/03/pharma-weathers-storm-over-drug-prices-may-shift-tactics-062669

Helena’s article, “The Great Nutrient Collapse,” one of POLITICO’s most-read stories in 2017: https://www.politico.com/agenda/story/2017/09/13/food-nutrients-carbon-dioxide-000511

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BONUS: Ady Barkan, activist and ALS patient

Mon, 18 Dec 2017 22:05:00 -0000

On today's PULSE CHECK, we’re bringing you a bonus conversation that captures this moment in politics and one of the key voices shaping the debate — a discussion with activist Ady Barkan.

A Yale-trained lawyer, Ady worked with the Center for Popular Democracy to push progressive economic policies and reform the Federal Reserve, high-profile battles that led POLITICO to name Ady to our list of 50 leaders and influencers in 2016.

But Ady's life radically changed after a diagnosis of ALS last year. Now he's fighting to stop Republicans' tax bill and avoid possible cuts to Medicare — an argument that Ady made in a viral video where he confronted Sen. Jeff Flake aboard an airplane over Flake's support for the tax bill

On today's episode, Ady discusses his life, his advocacy work and what average Americans can do to shape the policy debate.

We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Roundup: ACA enrollment, Doug Jones and Tina Smith

Wed, 13 Dec 2017 23:01:00 -0000

Too often, there's too much media focus on Obamacare. But with a surprise Senate upset throwing a wrench into Republican repeal plans, and with HealthCare.gov sign-ups poised to end on Friday, this was a week to go a little deeper on the ACA.

First, POLITICO’s Paul Demko discusses his reporting on the ACA enrollment period and insurers’ profitability (starts at the 2:25 mark), as well as the health care ramifications of the shifts in the Senate (16:00), with Alabama's Doug Jones and Minnesota's Tina Smith poised to join the Democratic caucus.

Then after the break, Sarah Gollust — a University of Minnesota professor who studies health care and the media and has closely tracked advertising around the Affordable Care Act — joins PULSE CHECK to discuss her latest findings (starts at the 24:20 mark).

We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

Stories referenced on the podcast: Paul's story on insurers finally turning a profit on the ACA: https://www.politico.com/story/2017/12/07/obamacare-profits-health-care-285258

Paul's story on ACA enrollment lagging behind last year: https://www.politico.com/story/2017/12/12/obamacare-sign-ups-enrollment-numbers-218764

Dan's story on Mayo Clinic's rural consolidation, a regional controversy that drew in Tina Smith: https://www.politico.com/story/2017/11/16/mayo-clinic-rural-health-care-244955

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Roundup: Budget battles and mega-mergers

Sat, 09 Dec 2017 01:11:00 -0000

Congress continues to try and hammer out a year-end spending bill, while outside of Washington, health care organizations dramatically ramped up their deal-making this week.

First, POLITICO’s Sarah Ferris and Adriel Bettelheim join PULSE CHECK to parse what’s happened with the spending negotiations and what’s next. (Starts at the 1:30 mark.)

After the break, Craig Garthwaite, a health economist with Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, discusses why there were so many eye-catching health care mergers this week and what he likes about CVS’s $69 billion deal to buy Aetna. (Starts at the 16:00 mark.)

We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Roundup: Taxes, CHIP, the fate of HHS and fake news

Fri, 01 Dec 2017 23:34:00 -0000

It’s been another packed week in health care, and PULSE CHECK — with help from a conservative health care analyst — is here to help make sense of it all.

First, POLITICO’s Jennifer Haberkorn and Adam Cancryn join Dan Diamond to talk about their reporting about the tax package that’s poised to pass the Senate (starts at the 1:45 mark), the fight over HHS Secretary-nominee Alex Azar (11:00), and the latest timing on funding for Children’s Health Insurance Program (15:00). Dan also discusses the false reports about Kellyanne Conway being appointed “opiods czar.” (19:45)

Then after the break, Chris Jacobs — the CEO of the Juniper Research Group and a prominent conservative health care analyst — explains his criticism of the tax package (starts at the 25:30 mark), his review of the GOP’s health care efforts after 10 months of controlling government (35:00), and his thoughts on the state of conservative health care analysis (37:45).

We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

Stories and work referenced on the podcast:

Adam and Sarah Ferris’ story on the tax package’s possible cuts to Medicare and other programs: https://www.politico.com/story/2017/11/30/tax-bill-spending-cuts-gop-congress-274337

Jen’s story on pro-Obamacare groups turning on Sen. Susan Collins: https://www.politico.com/story/2017/12/01/susan-collins-healthcare-vote-obamacare-ads-274629

Friday’s issue of PULSE, which had Jen’s scoop on CHIP funding timing: https://www.politico.com/newsletters/politico-pulse/2017/12/01/tax-bill-could-trigger-significant-medicare-cuts-037612

Chris Jacobs’ piece arguing that the GOP would be “crazy” to repeal the mandate in their tax package: https://thefederalist.com/2017/11/09/republicans-crazy-repeal-obamacares-individual-mandate-inside-tax-reform/

Chris’ piece questioning whether ACA cost-sharing reductions would even be paid out under the tax package: https://thefederalist.com/2017/11/30/cost-sharing-reductions-subject-sequester/

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Jeff Goldsmith on predicting health care's future

Wed, 22 Nov 2017 21:51:00 -0000

As the year winds down, PULSE CHECK is casting an eye outside of Washington and on what’s coming next for health care. And that's why this week's conversation is with one of the industry's big thinkers — Jeff Goldsmith, who grapples with these questions as a health care futurist and Navigant advisor.

Jeff sat down with POLITICO’s Dan Diamond to discuss what a futurist does and how his predictions have panned out (starts at the 1:20 mark), the trend toward hospital consolidation and what providers are doing right and wrong (9:00), where the health care industry stands and the signals being sent by Washington, D.C. (17:45), and a lightning round on what’s next for major sectors (28:00).

At the end of the episode, listen to a special excerpt from POLITICO MONEY, Ben White’s new podcast on politics, finance and economics, with this week’s episode focused on Republicans' tax bill fight. (Starts at the 31:10 mark).

We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

Stories and book referenced on the podcast: Dan's story on 'McHospitals': https://www.politico.com/agenda/story/2017/11/08/hospital-chains-dominate-health-care-000574 Jeff's 1981 book, "Can Hospitals Survive": https://www.amazon.com/Can-Hospitals-Survive-Jeff-Goldsmith/dp/0870942484

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Roundup: Taxes and Mayo Clinic, ACA myths and Uwe

Fri, 17 Nov 2017 20:21:00 -0000

It’s been a busy week in health care, and PULSE CHECK is here to help make sense of it all.

First, POLITICO’s Paul Demko and Sarah Karlin-Smith join Dan Diamond to discuss Republicans’ tax reform plans, Alex Azar’s nomination as HHS secretary, the state of ACA enrollment and Dan’s reporting on the Mayo Clinic. (Starts at the 2:00 mark.)

Then, Dartmouth professor Brendan Nyhan sits down with Dan to discuss his research into myths and lies about the ACA, vaccines and other health care issues, and how to change a person’s mind. (Starts at the 27:15 mark.)

Finally, Dan reflects on Uwe Reinhardt, the giant of health policy who passed away this week. (Starts at the 45:35 mark.)

We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

Stories and work referenced on the podcast:

Sarah and Adam Cancryn's story on Alex Azar, the nominee to lead HHS: https://www.politico.com/story/2017/11/13/alex-azar-hhs-secretary-trump-244837

Paul's story on the early ACA enrollment numbers: https://www.politico.com/story/2017/11/15/obamacare-enrollment-surges-trump-244930

Dan's story on Mayo Clinic's growth and rural patients' anger: www.politico.com/story/2017/11/16/mayo-clinic-rural-health-care-244955

Brendan Nyhan's work on death panel myths: http://www.brendan-nyhan.com/blog/2013/01/new-study-on-difficulty-of-correcting-death-panel-myth.html

The New York Times' obituary of Uwe Reinhardt: https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/15/obituaries/uwe-reinhardt-a-listened-to-voice-on-health-care-policy-dies-at-80.html?_r=0

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Sen. Michael Bennet on Medicare-X, making policy and more, plus ACA open enrollment with Josh Peck

Thu, 09 Nov 2017 07:53:00 -0000

"I don't know why people in rural America should have to settle for insurance that no one else in the industrialized world has to settle for... Just because you live in a rural place, why should you have to pay for insurance that's of no use to you?"

Sen. Michael Bennet is an intriguing figure in the national health care debate. The Colorado Democrat sits on the Senate’s two key health care committees, he’s been pragmatic about the Affordable Care Act, and with Sen. Tim Kaine, he’s the author of Medicare-X, a new plan to expand coverage.

The senator sat down with POLITICO’s Dan Diamond to share his reaction to Democrats’ victories in Tuesday’s election (starts at the 15:45 mark), his Medicare-X bill and his exhaustion with the ACA debate (19:40), Democrats’ desire for universal coverage and why Colorado’s single-payer bill failed (28:45), his role on the Senate Finance and HELP committees overseeing HHS and CMS (34:10) and his thoughts on the state of media (43:00).

But first, Josh Peck — the former Chief Marketing Officer of HealthCare.gov and co-founder of Get America Covered — joins PULSE CHECK to discuss the state of ACA open enrollment and what his group is doing to boost coverage. (Starts at the 2:00 mark.)

We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

Stories referenced on the podcast:

Maine voters supported Medicaid expansion, on the same day that CMS’s Seema Verma announced new support for Medicaid work requirements: https://www.politico.com/story/2017/11/07/maine-voters-medicaid-obamacare-244675

Lamar Alexander, Patty Murray had been inching toward a deal to stabilize Obamacare: https://www.politico.com/story/2017/09/28/alexander-murray-obamacare-plan-243258

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Atul Gawande on Washington, writing and what really matters

Thu, 02 Nov 2017 00:15:00 -0000

Atul Gawande doesn't really need an introduction — but if PULSE CHECK were to provide one, it would highlight his work as a New Yorker writer, researcher, best-selling author, surgeon and founder of two non-profits. (Among other responsibilities.)

Atul sat down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss how he manages his schedule (starts at the 2:05 mark), his book "Being Mortal" and how he thinks its lessons have resonated (5:50), his perspective on politics and public health (11:20), his early career as a Hill staffer and Clinton-era appointee at HHS (18:00), whether he'd ever take a job in D.C. again (26:00) and his writing process (28:00). Plus, stick around to hear Atul answer PULSE CHECK listener questions, which starts at the 40:20 mark.

We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app!

Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

Stories and book referenced on the podcast:

Atul's 2015 book, "Being Mortal": https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JCW0BCY/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1

Atul's 2009 story, "The Cost Conundrum": https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2009/06/01/the-cost-conundrum

Atul's 2009 story, "Hellhole": https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2009/03/30/hellhole

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Aaron Carroll on his path to the New York Times' front page

Sun, 29 Oct 2017 03:47:39 -0000

Aaron Carroll is making a play to be America’s doctor, or at least the physician we need to bust medical myths. The pediatrician from Indianapolis is a best-selling author of medical advice books, a featured writer in the New York Times, and even a YouTube celebrity, with more than 250,000 subscribers to his channel. So how did he do it? In a bonus episode of PULSE CHECK, Aaron joins POLITICO’s Dan Diamond to discuss his path from blogger to New York Times contributor (Starts at the 1:35 mark), his critical analysis of Medicare-for-all proposals (11:20), his view as an Indiana-based doctor of that state’s health reforms, led by Mike Pence and Seema Verma (15:50), why Congress is failing on CHIP and what policies they should pursue (20:35), Aaron’s mythbusting on what you should, and shouldn’t eat(23:00) and more. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com or tweet him @ddiamond. Stories and podcasts referenced on the podcast: PULSE CHECK’s interview with Austin Frakt, Aaron’s writing partner: https://soundcloud.com/politico-pulsecheck/news-roundup-and-austin-frakt Aaron and Austin’s New York Times interactive tournament of the best health care systems in the world: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2017/09/18/upshot/best-health-care-system-country-bracket.html?_r=0 Aaron discussing his new book, THE BAD FOOD BIBLE: HOW AND WHY TO EAT SINFULLY: https://theincidentaleconomist.com/wordpress/healthcare-triage-the-bad-food-bible/

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N.C. HHS Secretary Mandy Cohen and news roundup

Thu, 26 Oct 2017 22:12:28 -0000

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Oscar Health CEO Mario Schlosser

Fri, 20 Oct 2017 06:17:54 -0000

The Washington conversation has been focused on the fate of the ACA and whether insurers are planning to stick around. So for this episode of PULSE CHECK, we took the conversation outside the Beltway to hear from Mario Schlosser, CEO of Oscar Health — the insurance startup that’s gotten a lot of buzz and is heading into more Obamacare markets this year. Mario caught up with POLITICO’s Dan Diamond last month to discuss Oscar's evolving strategy (starts at the 2:00 mark), why Oscar is moving into new Obamacare markets (8:05), the company's much-hyped founding story (16:00) and some of the unwanted attention on Oscar, including the insurer's ties to Jared Kushner (26:10). We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Kaiser Permanente CEO Bernard J. Tyson

Sat, 07 Oct 2017 21:06:45 -0000

Every shortlist of health care power players includes Bernard J. Tyson, head of Kaiser Permanente. (Modern Healthcare this summer ranked him the fourth most influential person, after Sens. Collins, McCain and Murkowski.)

So how does this prominent figure see the industry, and what's he telling Congress? Bernard caught up with POLITICO’s Dan Diamond last week to discuss the whirlwind around ACA repeal and what he wants to see fixed (starts at the 1:50 mark), whether insurers can come back to Obamacare markets (9:00), his own career path and whether it's replicable today (23:30), KP's role as an employer and community anchor (29:00), and the future of his organization (33:30).

We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Gates Foundation CEO Sue Desmond-Hellmann

Sat, 30 Sep 2017 19:59:54 -0000

The political fights over U.S. health policy often pale next to the world's health care challenges — and Sue Desmond-Hellmann would know. The doctor-turned-CEO of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is on the front lines of the global public health battle, as her organization tackles challenges like eradicating polio and preventing maternal and newborn deaths. Sue caught up with POLITICO’s Dan Diamond last week to discuss if the Trump administration’s putting global progress at risk (starts at the 2:45 mark), the Gates Foundation’s work around the globe, the public health priorities that are being overlooked, and the role of philanthropy in solving the world’s crises. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Former HHS Secretary Mike Leavitt and news roundup

Sat, 23 Sep 2017 04:33:05 -0000

Here’s how fast things are moving in health care: Mike Leavitt, who ran HHS under President George W. Bush, came to Washington 10 days ago to testify about the need for bipartisan health reforms — and since that day, when he sat down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond, the Senate’s bipartisan health push has collapsed and the GOP’s latest Obamacare repeal bill is on life support. Although the conversation is slightly dated, the former HHS secretary is a must-listen voice on health care issues, and he shares his perspective on possible health reforms (starts at the 16:30 mark), his pessimism on Medicare-for-all (22:00), his concerns about the Affordable Care Act (25:15) and his post-government work as head of Leavitt Partners (32:30). But first, POLITICO’s Rachana Pradhan and Jennifer Haberkorn join PULSE CHECK to break down the wild week in health care (starts at the 2:15 mark) and Rachana and Dan’s reporting about HHS Secretary Tom Price’s charter jets — an investigation that made this podcast so delayed (starts at 8:55 mark). We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com. Stories referenced on the podcast: Jen's story with colleagues on Sen. John McCain's decision to oppose ACA repeal again: http://www.politico.com/story/2017/09/22/mccain-to-oppose-graham-cassidy-likely-sinking-obamacare-repeal-243028?lo=ap_a1 Dan and Rachana’s investigation into Tom Price's use of charter planes: http://www.politico.com/story/2017/09/19/tom-price-chartered-planes-flights-242908 Rachana and Dan's follow-up on Price's 24 charter flights since May: http://www.politico.com/story/2017/09/21/tom-price-private-charter-plane-flights-242989

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NARAL's Ilyse Hogue on abortion rights, Medicare-for-all and where Democrats go next

Thu, 14 Sep 2017 07:09:19 -0000

Progressives have spent 2017 rethinking, regrouping and — in some cases — re-litigating what it means to be a Democrat after last year's shocking presidential loss. And two health care issues, abortion rights and single-payer, have been at the center of this year's party debates. One person leading those conversations is Ilyse Hogue, head of NARAL Pro-Choice America, who joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to explain the mission of her pro-abortion advocacy organization (starts at the 2:00 mark), whether Donald Trump has actually been a boon to progressives (7:20), how anti-abortion Republicans are targeting the judiciary (14:20), whether Democrats should only vote for candidates who support abortion rights and Medicare-for-all (17:20), her own career path (25:00) and why she talked about her own abortion on national TV at the Democratic National Convention (29:25). We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com or tweet him @ddiamond.

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The politics of hospital spending and news roundup

Fri, 08 Sep 2017 20:49:54 -0000

PULSE CHECK is back from August recess with a closer look at how health care politics and policy can influence spending — and sometimes not for the better. But first, Jen Haberkorn and Adam Cancryn rejoin PULSE CHECK to discuss the competing approaches to Obamacare in the Senate, whether either plan has a chance at succeeding, and if the GOP still wants to fight to repeal the law (starts at the 1:23 mark). After the break, Yale economist Zack Cooper discusses his team's first-of-its-kind work into the connection between politics, hospital behavior and health care spending, and how one last-minute addition to a major piece of Medicare legislation boosted hospital payments — and politicians' campaign contributions (starts at the 22:30 mark). We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com or tweet him @ddiamond.

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Former HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and news roundup

Thu, 24 Aug 2017 02:48:00 -0000

Kathleen Sebelius, the former HHS secretary who oversaw the rollout of Obamacare, is worried that HHS’s current leaders are steering the ACA the wrong direction. "They have done a lot to sabotage the health care law," Sebelius told POLITICO’s Dan Diamond. The former HHS secretary shares her thoughts on the current administration’s strategy, what she thinks HHS should be prioritizing and what’s been overlooked because of the intense focus on the ACA. (Starts at 22:00) But first, POLITICO’s Rachana Pradhan and Paul Demko join PULSE CHECK to discuss the emerging bipartisan efforts in the Senate to stabilize the ACA, the disconnect between President Trump’s comments and the Trump administration’s actions on health care and what’s on tap when Congress returns in September (starts at 1:35 mark) We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com or tweet him @ddiamond. Stories referenced on the podcast: Rachana’s story on how the Trump administration is spending millions to prop up Obamacare: http://www.politico.com/story/2017/08/13/trump-millions-save-obamacare-241549 Paul’s story on how the ACA survived the threat of “bare counties”: http://www.politico.com/story/2017/08/20/obamacare-insurers-county-health-plans-241803

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Andy Slavitt on what's next for health care - and him

Wed, 09 Aug 2017 20:31:01 -0000

Andy Slavitt has been busy: Since leaving office in January, the man who ran Medicare, Medicaid and the ACA has mounted a whirlwind defense of Obamacare, holding town halls coast to coast and being ever-present on social media. And in a repeat podcast appearance, Slavitt rejoins POLITICO's Dan Diamond to explain his strategy — and what this year has been like as his profile exploded. Andy discusses how he morphed from Obama administration official to the ACA's most visible advocate (starts at the 3:00 mark), the bipartisan solutions he thinks are necessary in health care (6:30), what he thinks HHS will do and why he thinks his criticism of the GOP is fair (12:00), whether he'd ever run for office (25:00), if he still needs the media as someone with 100,000-plus Twitter followers (34:30), and what he's learned about communications strategy since leaving office (42:20). Note: This conversation was recorded in late July, a few days before the Senate GOP health bill failed on the floor. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com or tweet him @ddiamond.

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Nicholas Bagley on Trump’s legal threat to Obamacare and news roundup

Thu, 03 Aug 2017 00:46:25 -0000

The central fight over the ACA has (for now) moved from Congress to the White House, where President Donald Trump is debating whether to yank key payments for insurers. But some senators are hinting that a bipartisan compromise on Obamacare is coming — as long as Trump doesn’t blow up their efforts, that is. First, POLITICO’s Jennifer Haberkorn and Paul Demko join Dan Diamond to talk about what's next in the Senate, the legal case that gives Trump the power to nix the payments, and what it was like to watch the dramatic vote early Friday morning. (Starts at 1:30.) Then after the break, Nicholas Bagley, a University of Michigan law professor who’s a leading voice on the ACA's legal issues, explains the theory behind the current case, what happens in the courts if Trump yanks the payments, and the series of legal attacks on Obamacare over the years. (Starts at the 22:45 mark). We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com or tweet him @ddiamond. Stories referenced on the podcast: Jen’s story on how the GOP got stuck on repeal: http://www.politico.com/story/2017/07/31/republicans-obamacare-repeal-241152 Paul’s story on Trump’s looming decision on ACA payments: http://www.politico.com/story/2017/07/31/obamacare-payments-insurers-trump-decision-241171

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Ben Wikler: ‘The Resistance’ isn’t futile

Wed, 26 Jul 2017 20:50:59 -0000

The Senate GOP is pushing forward with plans to roll back all or part of the Affordable Care Act, threatening insurance coverage for millions of Americans. A devastating moment for progressives? Not at all, says Ben Wikler, the Washington director for MoveOn.org, who argues that the drawn-out fight to repeal the ACA has turned into a major win. Wikler joined PULSE CHECK to talk about activism in the Trump era, how “the Resistance” in 2017 compares to the Tea Party in 2009 and how he’s thinking about the health care fight and what lies ahead. (Starts at the 9:25 mark.) But first: POLITICO deputy health care editor Jason Millman joined Dan Diamond to talk about the latest developments in the Senate and the “skinny repeal” plan now under consideration. (Starts at the 2:00 mark.) We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com or tweet him @ddiamond. NOTE: Dan will be at Politicon.com in California this weekend for a live-taping of POLITICO’s Nerdcast podcast and to moderate a panel on health care. Stories referenced on the podcast: The Senate’s push to repeal the ACA: http://www.politico.com/story/2017/07/26/obamacare-repeal-republicans-minimum-240982 John McCain’s attack on the GOP: http://www.politico.com/story/2017/07/25/john-mccain-obamacare-repeal-240946 The so-called "skinny repeal": http://www.politico.com/story/2017/07/25/mitch-mcconnell-skinny-obamacare-repeal-240943

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NYC health commissioner Mary Bassett and Chicago health commissioner Julie Morita

Thu, 20 Jul 2017 03:06:23 -0000

The nation heard from President Donald Trump on Wednesday, who again urged Republicans to repeal the ACA. Congress continues to loudly battle over the law, and governors have spoken out too. But one voice that’s been largely ignored: Local health leaders. And on this episode of PULSE CHECK, two big city health commissioners — New York City commissioner Mary Bassett and Chicago commissioner Julie Morita — join POLITICO’s Dan Diamond to explain how Republicans’ plan would hit their cities, why they prioritize "health" over "health care" and how they're addressing persistent social inequality. They also walk through what it’s like to be a city health commissioner — a role that both describe as their dream job. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com or tweet him @ddiamond. NOTE: Dan will be at Politicon.com next week for a live-taping of POLITICO’s Nerdcast podcast and to moderate a panel on health care. Stories referenced on the podcast: How the Cleveland Clinic gets healthier while its neighborhood stays sick: http://www.politico.com/interactives/2017/obamacare-cleveland-clinic-non-profit-hospital-taxes/ How hospitals got richer off Obamacare: http://www.politico.com/interactives/2017/obamacare-non-profit-hospital-taxes/

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Dead bill walking?

Fri, 14 Jul 2017 20:59:30 -0000

Meet the new bill — mostly the same as the old bill. Senate Republicans released their revised health care legislation this week, and while Sen. Ted Cruz is now firmly onboard, many moderate senators remain publicly uncommitted. And it's possible the bill could fail — again — next week. A team of POLITICO reporters break down what happened and what's next. First, Jen Haberkorn and Adam Cancryn rejoin PULSE CHECK to discuss what's in the new bill, the frenzied push to win over enough holdouts to simply bring it to the floor and their reporting on which senators to watch (starts at the 1:50 mark). Then after the break, Paul Demko and Sarah Karlin-Smith drill down on implications for the health care industry and recap the mostly overlooked developments for the fate of Obamacare's insurance markets and changes to drug payments (starts at the 23:30 mark). We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com or tweet him @ddiamond.

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Does the GOP bill pass this month? It's '50-50'

Mon, 10 Jul 2017 18:25:19 -0000

Even Republican senators say their health care bill is "dead." But their effort to repeal and replace the ACA is far from over — and the GOP is preparing to unveil a revised bill and sprint to pass it across July. POLITICO’s Adam Cancryn and Jennifer Haberkorn join Dan Diamond to discuss where Republicans stand after their rough recess (starts at the 1:30 mark), Adam’s reporting trip to cover holdout Sen. Shelley Moore Capito in West Virginia (10:30), the role of Donald Trump in selling the bill (13:40), how the next few weeks could shake out (18:30) and a few stories that are flying below the radar (26:15). We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com or tweet him @ddiamond. Read Adam's story on Capito: http://www.politico.com/story/2017/07/09/capito-gop-senator-opposes-health-bill-240311 Read Jen's story on recess: http://www.politico.com/story/2017/07/07/gop-health-plan-home-districts-misgivings-240306 Read DD's PULSE on what's next: http://www.politico.com/tipsheets/politico-pulse/2017/07/10/with-original-bill-dead-gop-begins-sprint-to-sell-new-one-221235

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Cleveland Clinic CEO Toby Cosgrove on what he's telling his senator, and news roundup

Fri, 30 Jun 2017 01:24:27 -0000

Republicans' health care push continues to grip the Capitol and keep the industry on high alert. On this episode of PULSE CHECK, we review how that effort is unfolding in D.C. but also in Ohio, in a sit-down interview with one of America's most powerful health care leaders. First, POLITICO's Jen Haberkorn joins Dan Diamond to discuss her reporting on the latest twists and turns in the GOP health care push (starts at the 1:45 mark). Then Dr. Toby Cosgrove, the heart surgeon who runs the Cleveland Clinic, talks about why he turned down both the Obama and Trump administration's overtures about being VA Secretary, what he's telling Ohio Sen. Rob Portman about Republicans' health bill and his view on the health care industry's challenges (starts at the 12:45 mark). We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com or tweet him @ddiamond.

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The turning points to watch this week

Mon, 26 Jun 2017 19:54:15 -0000

It's a big week in health care, and POLITICO's reporters are here to help you sort through it. In a bonus episode of PULSE CHECK, senior reporter Jennifer Haberkorn joined Dan Diamond to discuss what to expect this week (starts at the 1:40 mark), the procedural hurdles that Republicans need to jump through (3:30), other possible turning points (14:30), a rundown of where key GOP senators stand (16:30), and media coverage of the health care debate (23:30). We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com or tweet him @ddiamond.

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Neera Tanden: GOP bill is 'moral outrage,' but Democrats will triumph in the end

Thu, 22 Jun 2017 20:56:59 -0000

The Senate health bill is here, and Neera Tanden is furious. Neera's a major figure in Democratic politics: She's the head of the liberal Center for American Progress, a former Obama administration staffer — and someone who was heavily favored to be HHS Secretary in a prospective Clinton administration. Neera joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss Republicans' health care process (starts at the 1:40 mark), their proposed changes to Medicaid (6:00), how she thinks it will play in upcoming elections (12:30), what the Clinton administration would've done on health care (19:40), what it was like having her email hacked (22:45), what it's like to run an organization like CAP today (27:00), her advice to young activists (30:00), and if it's a setback for progressives if the bill passes (36:30). We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com or tweet him @ddiamond.

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She's a Medicaid expert. He's the ex-CEO of Apple. Here's how they see the GOP bill.

Thu, 15 Jun 2017 03:59:14 -0000

President Donald Trump reportedly bashed the House health bill as “mean, mean, mean." But will the Senate's version be any better? And what do experts want senators to know as they finalize their bill? On this episode of PULSE CHECK, Dan Diamond talks with two people with very different perspectives — and significant concerns — as changes to the health system loom in Congress. First, Diane Rowland of the Kaiser Family Foundation sits down (starts at the 2:25 mark) to talk about Kaiser’s latest polling on Republicans’ health care efforts and how possible Medicaid cuts could hurt Trump's voters. Then after the break, John Sculley, the former CEO of Apple and Pepsi and now a health care investor and executive, talks about his own meetings with Republicans on the Hill this week and his thoughts on how dramatic changes could complicate the business of health care. (Starts at 30:46.) We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com or tweet him @ddiamond.

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How the Senate's 'illusion of momentum' might give them the real thing

Thu, 08 Jun 2017 05:46:52 -0000

The Senate is driving forward on its health care bill, with a vote looming as soon as late June — even though it's still not clear what's in the bill or if they'll have the votes. How should you think about the Senate's push? Rodney Whitlock — who was health care adviser to Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley — joins POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss the dynamics of the Senate and what's at stake in the health care fight. Meanwhile: there’s a lot more to health care than the ACA and AHCA. And after the break, Niall Brennan — the former chief data officer for Medicare and Medicaid and the new head of the Health Care Cost Institute — discusses the biggest spending problems in health care and whether we can trust the data that the Trump administration is publishing. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com or tweet him @ddiamond.

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Jonathan Bush on what everyone gets wrong about health care

Wed, 31 May 2017 22:19:36 -0000

There aren’t many health care executives like Jonathan Bush — the outspoken CEO of Athenahealth, a health IT company. (Frankly, there aren’t many executives like Bush anywhere; he seems to ruffle feathers with every interview.) Bush sat down with POLITICO’s Dan Diamond to discuss the health IT landscape, what Washington gets wrong about the industry and why — despite his famous political family — he chose to focus on health care and feels free to say basically anything. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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‘Only 23 million more uninsured’

Fri, 26 May 2017 22:11:27 -0000

Republicans’ health care legislation continues to lurch forward, with the Congressional Budget Office this week again predicting the bill will lead to 20-million-plus more uninsured in a decade. On this episode of PULSE CHECK, we discuss how the CBO score is playing in Washington and what’s ahead for the unpopular bill. First, POLITICO’s Jen Haberkorn and Paul Demko discuss their reporting from Capitol Hill, address the latest reports about the health of Obamacare and share how the Senate is approaching its efforts. (Starts at 1:45.) Then, Matt Fiedler of the Brookings Institution — and the former chief economist of the Obama administration’s Council of Economic Advisers — shares his analysis of the GOP bill and why he thinks the most recent changes made it worse. (Starts at 27:10.) We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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POLITICO editor Carrie Budoff Brown on covering Trumpcare, Obamacare and this crazy news moment

Thu, 18 May 2017 21:07:19 -0000

How does a major media outlet decide how much to cover Republicans’ health bill when Russia’s the talk of the town? Carrie Budoff Brown would know — she’s the editor of POLITICO and was one of the top reporters covering the health care debate in 2009-2010. Carrie joined Dan Diamond on PULSE CHECK to discuss how the current health care fight compares to Democrats’ battles eight years ago, where Republicans’ health bill ranks as a media priority, what it’s like leading a newsroom in the Trump era, and what she’s learned from hosting her own podcast, WOMEN RULE. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! (And check out WOMEN RULE, too!) Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Jon Favreau and Rick Wilson on bad bills and worse messaging

Thu, 11 May 2017 04:25:43 -0000

The Affordable Care Act has polled poorly for years — but Republicans’ health bill is polling even worse. What does it mean for the GOP to have such an unpopular bill, and how can progressives take advantage of it? On this PULSE CHECK, you’ll hear from two experts in political messaging and strategy. First, Jon Favreau, who was the chief speechwriter for President Obama and is a cofounder of Crooked Media, a new liberal political media network, sits down with POLITICO’s Dan Diamond to talk about setting Affordable Care Act strategy, Republicans’ struggles to craft a health bill of their own, and how his views on media have changed since starting a media company. (Starts at the 1:50 mark.) Then after the break, Rick Wilson, a Republican strategist who helped attack the Affordable Care Act, explains why Obamacare’s pre-existing conditions protections are the “nuclear bomb” against critics of the law, why he's no fan of Republicans' current health care strategy, and how the GOP is risking the party’s political future by pushing a bad bill. (Starts at the 38:50 mark.) We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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What's next for the GOP health bill, and Mario Molina on his surprise firing

Fri, 05 May 2017 20:19:35 -0000

The Republican plan to repeal Obamacare has made it through the House. What are its chances in the Senate, and what's the ripple effect for the industry? That's the focus of this week's PULSE CHECK, with a mix of news analysis and a guest who may have lost his job because of his pro-Obamacare advocacy. First, POLITICO's Jen Haberkorn and Adam Cancryn join Dan Diamond to discuss their reporting about the American Health Care Act and what lies ahead in the Senate (Starts at the 1:30 mark.) Then Mario Molina, the former head of Molina Healthcare who was fired this week, joins PULSE CHECK to discuss his surprising exit, his view on the Republican health bill and why he doesn't regret speaking out in support of Obamacare (Starts at 35:30). We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Unpacking the GOP's health strategy with Ceci Connolly and Cynthia Cox

Thu, 27 Apr 2017 23:00:15 -0000

Republicans' health bill is back, and so is the PULSE CHECK podcast. There’s a lot up in the air as of Thursday — the White House wants a quick vote on the bill before the president’s first 100 days are up, but the House GOP appears to lack the votes. Meanwhile, President Trump is still threatening to stop paying crucial subsidies, which could lead to health insurers pulling out of the Affordable Care Act altogether. First, Ceci Connolly, the former Washington Post health reporter who’s now head of the Alliance of Community Health Plans, joins POLITICO’s Dan Diamond to explain how her health plan members are reacting to the tumult in D.C. Then after the break, Cynthia Cox of the Kaiser Family Foundation goes deeper on the Obamacare subsidies – known as cost-sharing reductions — and the state of the Affordable Care Act exchanges. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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How Obamacare marketplaces are dealing with the zombie repeal bill

Thu, 13 Apr 2017 05:40:20 -0000

Republicans remain divided on the future of their stalled repeal effort, and President Donald Trump is signaling he’s not ready to give up the fight just yet. In the meantime, Obamacare insurance marketplaces are facing tight deadlines ahead the next enrollment season. Starting this month, insurers in some states will have to start filing 2018 rates amid uncertainty about whether Congress will replace the health care law or if the Trump administration will really let Obamacare fail. Mila Kofman, head of the Obamacare exchange in Washington, D.C., explains what this uncertainty means for the insurance marketplaces as they plan for the next enrollment season.

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News roundup and Austin Frakt on how to become a nationally known health care expert

Thu, 06 Apr 2017 15:04:24 -0000

There's a lot of fuss around the House GOP's health care plan — but how real is it? POLITICO's Paul Demko talks with Dan Diamond about Republicans' latest push and whether there's any "there" there. (Starts at the 1:30 mark.) Then after the break, Austin Frakt — a well-known health care economist, blogger and New York Times "Upshot" contributor — joins PULSE CHECK to discuss the state of health care research and how to build a career in the public eye (starts at the 14:10 mark.) We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com. Note: Dan is headed off on a reporting project, but Jason Millman will guest host on PULSE CHECK next week.

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Sen. Susan Collins and Rep. Charlie Dent on what's next for health care

Thu, 30 Mar 2017 20:57:39 -0000

Conservatives are feuding with the White House over health care. House Speaker Paul Ryan is warning President Trump against doing a deal with Democrats. If there's a path to health reform, it may run through moderate Republicans — and on this PULSE CHECK, you’re going to hear from two of the most prominent in Congress. First, Rep. Charlie Dent — a leader of the center-right Tuesday Group — joins to discuss last week's collapse of House Republican efforts to repeal the ACA, why he thinks a bipartisan deal is so important, and what it was like to get yelled at by the president. (Starts at the 1:45 mark.) Then Sen. Susan Collins joins PULSE CHECK to discuss "the shrinking center" on Capitol Hill, the path where health reform could go, and why she thinks her bill with Sen. Bill Cassidy is the right compromise for right now. (Starts at 20:20). We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Bonus roundup: The short life and quick death of AHCA

Sun, 26 Mar 2017 15:36:06 -0000

Obamacare repeal is dead — so long live Obamacare? POLITICO’s Paul Demko and Rachana Pradhan rejoin Dan Diamond to discuss the collapse of Republicans’ health bill, their reporting from the week, and where the effort to repeal the Affordable Care Act goes from here. First, they marvel and recap the week that was (starts at the 7:30 mark),then talk about what’s next for the GOP (34:45), and run through a quick lightning round (47:15) in the final bonus episode of the short-lived American Health Care Act-era. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Zeke Emanuel on talking with Trump: 'This is an appalling bill'

Wed, 22 Mar 2017 16:40:57 -0000

Zeke Emanuel got his third meeting with President Donald Trump this week — and Emanuel said he delivered his trademark "straight talk" to Trump as the GOP prepares to vote on the American Health Care Act. “Any rational person has to be worried about this bill,” Emanuel told POLITICO’s Dan Diamond about the GOP’s plan to repeal Obamacare. “It’s unacceptable.” Emanuel joined PULSE CHECK to answer questions about his meetings with Trump, discuss his own experiences helping craft the Affordable Care Act, explain why he’s so worried moving about health care moving forward, and even talk a bit about his famous brothers. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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News roundup: The GOP health bill and where Congress stands

Mon, 20 Mar 2017 22:12:56 -0000

Speaker Paul Ryan is vowing that the House on Thursday will pass the American Health Care Act, Republicans’ plan to repeal and replace parts of the Affordable Care Act. In a bonus episode, POLITICO's Rachana Pradhan and Paul Demko joined Dan Diamond to discuss the state of play around Republicans’ health bill, its chances of passage and their recent reporting on Medicaid issues and the insurance industry. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com. And keep your ears peeled: A full episode of PULSE CHECK will be posted at the regular time this week.

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Rep. Joe Kennedy on fighting for the ACA — even if it takes all night

Thu, 16 Mar 2017 03:34:40 -0000

For four years, Rep. Joe Kennedy III has sought a deliberately low profile as a relatively young member of Congress with a famous last name. But after an epic 27-hour markup last week — and tens of millions of views on social media later — Kennedy has quickly emerged as a national face of resistance to Republicans' health bill and a rising Democrat to watch. Kennedy joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss what it was like to spend 27 hours straight arguing in Congress over health care (starts at the 1:45 mark), the key takeaways from his comments (8:00), whether Democrats' all-night resistance actually accomplished anything (14:30), his famous last name (18:45), the future of the Democratic party (25:00), and more. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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AHA’s Rick Pollack and ALEC’s Lisa Nelson on the GOP reform bill

Thu, 09 Mar 2017 00:18:47 -0000

The Republican health care bill has landed — and largely with a thud. Two heavy hitters join POLITICO’s Dan Diamond to explain what they like (and don’t) about the GOP effort to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. First, Rick Pollack, head of the American Hospital Association, joins PULSE CHECK to discuss why the powerful lobbying group has come out strongly against the Republican health plan, why he’s also concerned about the travel ban against six Muslim-majority countries and how hospitals have performed under Obamacare. (Starts at the 1:40 mark.) Then after the break, Lisa Nelson, who leads the American Legislative Exchange Council or ALEC — a powerful conservative organization that played a key role in resisting the Affordable Care Act — explains why she endorsed Republicans’ decision to move forward on repeal, if not necessarily the details of their plan, and why she thinks the ACA has been so bad for the nation. (Starts at the 23:00 mark.) We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Obamacare: Where two insiders think the GOP goes from here

Wed, 01 Mar 2017 22:34:15 -0000

President Donald Trump on Tuesday night exhorted Congress to immediately repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, getting multiple standing ovations. Just one problem: Republicans still don’t have a clear blueprint to do it. On this episode of PULSE CHECK, we look at the state of Obamacare repeal, with the conservative and moderate wings of the Republican party feuding over next steps. As of now, the party doesn't have the votes to move forward. First, Tevi Troy of the American Health Policy Institute — a former White House staffer and HHS deputy secretary under President George W. Bush — joins Dan Diamond to explain the strategy and power behind Trump’s speech, assess the administration’s progress after 40 days, and discuss whether Trump is the right president to take a 3 a.m. emergency phone call. (Starts at the 1:45 mark.) Then after the break, Adam Brandon, president of FreedomWorks, explains why he’s thrilled that Sens. Rand Paul, Mike Lee and Ted Cruz are making a stand against the House GOP’s repeal bill, which reforms that he wants to see in an ACA replacement, and how he views the Democrat-led town hall protests last week — a tactic that FreedomWorks helped pioneer for Republicans in 2009. (Starts at the 30:50 mark.) We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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News roundup: Town halls, Trump's speech and where the ACA repeal fight stands

Tue, 28 Feb 2017 01:45:17 -0000

Liberal activists celebrated last week's raucous town halls — but did the pro-ACA chants actually change any Republican lawmakers' minds? What's in Speaker Paul Ryan's plan to repeal and replace the health law? And where does President Donald Trump's promise to strike down Obamacare actually stand? In a bonus episode, POLITICO's Jennifer Haberkorn and Paul Demko joined Dan Diamond to discuss their reporting from Iowa and Tennessee town halls, what's next for Trump's push and Paul's scoop from Friday — getting a first look at the House's ACA repeal bill. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com. And keep your ears peeled: A full episode of PULSE CHECK will be posted at the regular time this week.

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She raised the price of EpiPen. He says he wants to bring drug prices down.

Thu, 23 Feb 2017 08:50:33 -0000

One of the biggest controversies in health care: The price of the EpiPen, which soared from $57 in 2007 to more than $300 last year. Critics said Mylan's steady price hikes were a sign of corporate greed. But Mylan CEO Heather Bresch — who appears on this week's PULSE CHECK — argues her decisions were motivated by bigger problems in the health care system. Bresch joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to defend her side of the EpiPen pricing controversy, discuss the role of middlemen in U.S. drug pricing, and explain why she wants her experience to be a way to expose the deeper problems with the drug industry (starts at the 1:30 mark). Then after the break, Mark Merritt, the head of the Pharmaceutical Care Management Association, joined to share his diagnosis for high drug prices, argue why pharmacy benefit managers are more than just middlemen, and reveal what it was like testifying in front of Congress with Martin Shkreli (starts at the 13:30 mark). We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Running CMS: What it's like, and what Seema Verma may do

Thu, 16 Feb 2017 00:39:49 -0000

Seema Verma isn't a household name in health care — but she's about to be. President Donald Trump's pick to run CMS has been a health policy consultant for multiple Republican governors, including then-Gov. Mike Pence in Indiana, and she's facing her Senate confirmation hearing on Thursday. So what's waiting for Verma, and what would her likely confirmation mean for the health care industry? We talked to two people who would know. First, Tom Scully — the irascible health care lawyer and investor who ran CMS under President George W. Bush — joins PULSE CHECK to discuss leading the agency, why one of his first decisions was to change the name to "CMS," the advice he's given Verma and what he thinks she needs to do to be successful (starts at the 1:40 mark). Then after the break, Joan Alker — the executive director of Georgetown's Center for Children and Families — talks with POLITICO's Dan Diamond about Republicans' plans to reform Medicaid, what Verma's track record suggests she'll pursue if confirmed and the impact on the social safety net (starts at the 29:25 mark). We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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PhRMA's Stephen Ubl on drug prices, lab coats (not hoodies), and talking with Trump

Thu, 09 Feb 2017 00:02:22 -0000

President Donald Trump says the drug industry is "getting away with murder" — but Stephen Ubl, the nation's top pharma lobbyist, says his industry's life-saving work has been overshadowed by a few bad actors. Ubl joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to share his thoughts on drug prices, his recent meeting with Trump, PhRMA's top priorities, and why Martin Shkreli and other controversial figures don't tell the whole story about the industry. (Starts at the 1:45 mark.) Then after the break, POLITICO's pharma reporter Sarah Karlin-Smith discusses her reporting on drug price reform. (Starts at 28:00.) We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Harvard's global health leader on making America even greater

Thu, 02 Feb 2017 21:52:14 -0000

President Donald Trump has talked about putting 'America First.' Who better to weigh in on the implications for global health than Ashish Jha, who leads Harvard's Global Health Institute and is a leader in U.S. health care research too. Jha joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss his work on global health issues (starts at the 1:30 mark), his deep concerns about Trump's immigration ban and his own immigrant experience (5:00), how he juggles multiple roles as a professor, researcher and clinician (11:30), his research into gender and physician performance (17:30), ProPublica's surgeon scorecard (21:30), why he helped resurrect a climate change conference that CDC cancelled (30:30), and more. Also: Stay tuned for the lightning round that starts at 34:10. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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News roundup: Week 1 of the Trump administration

Sat, 28 Jan 2017 03:11:24 -0000

One week ago, Donald Trump was inaugurated as president — and within hours, he was making moves to weaken the Affordable Care Act. After a frenetic week of news, POLITICO's Jen Haberkorn joins Dan Diamond for an impromptu podcast to discuss President Trump's order and statements on the ACA, the state of the GOP's push to repeal and replace the law, how HHS Secretary-designate Tom Price's nomination is faring and other major stories shaping health care. *Note: Podcast was recorded before Friday night's POLITICO scoop that the Trump administration would allow HHS to run some outreach for the Affordable Care Act after all . We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Stock trades and Senate attacks: Where Tom Price's nomination goes from here

Tue, 17 Jan 2017 22:37:46 -0000

Rep. Tom Price — Donald Trump’s pick to run HHS — needs to undergo a pair of Senate hearings before being confirmed. But he’s under attack from Democrats, after a series of stories linking Price’s stock trades to legislation that he’s written. As of Tuesday afternoon, Price’s initial hearing on Wednesday is still on. One reason why the timing matters: Trump has said that he won’t release his health reform plan until Price is confirmed. Rep. Louise Slaughter (D-N.Y.), who co-authored the STOCK Act — which led to Price’s stock disclosures — first joins PULSE CHECK to talk about ethical issues in Congress, why she wants the SEC to investigate Price, and why she’s seeing a wave of support for Obamacare (starts at the 2:45 mark). Then after the break, Rodney Whitlock — who served as GOP Sen. Chuck Grassley’s health policy director — explains what to expect in a confirmation hearing, what lawmakers need to do to avoid Price’s fate, and where he thinks Republicans go from here (starts at 17:30). We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Begun, the Trump health agenda has

Thu, 12 Jan 2017 23:57:22 -0000

Obamacare repeal, drug price reform — and vaccine investigations? President-elect Donald Trump has pushed all three health care priorities this week, and Senate Republicans just advanced his agenda by voting to begin striking down the Affordable Care Act. First, POLITICO's pharma reporter Sarah Karlin-Smith joins Dan Diamond (starts at the 2:15 mark) to explain Republicans' early-morning vote on Thursday, discuss why Democrats voted against Sen. Bernie Sanders' proposal to import drugs from Canada, and walk through what Trump's attack on the pharma industry could mean. Then, Arthur Allen — POLITICO's eHealth editor and author of "Vaccine: The Controversial Story of Medicine's Greatest Lifesaver" — joins Dan (starts at 23:55) to discuss Trump's emerging plan to investigate vaccine safety and why it could be a disaster for public health. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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News roundup: Obamacare update (and what we've missed while focusing on it)

Tue, 10 Jan 2017 04:55:08 -0000

The Obamacare repeal battle is THE story in health care, but it's not the only one. On a special edition of PULSE CHECK, five POLITICO health care reporters talk about what they're seeing ahead for the Affordable Care Act, and also drill down on other recent industry news. First, Pro's Jen Haberkorn and Rachana Pradhan (starts at the 2:15 mark) join Dan Diamond to discuss whether GOP plans to repeal Obamacare remain realistic, North Carolina's last-ditch push for Medicaid expansion, and who they're watching this frantic week. After the break, Pro's Paul Demko and Sarah Karlin-Smith (starts at 23:15) offer updates on the court battle over insurer mega-mergers, what the Cures Act could do for the pharma sector, and whether the health care industry will benefit or suffer under the Trump administration. *Note: Podcast was recorded before Monday night's moves in Congress to slow down Obamacare repeal efforts. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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One man is trying to repeal Obamacare. The other is trying to save it.

Thu, 05 Jan 2017 22:38:47 -0000

One man is trying to repeal Obamacare. The other is trying to save it. As Congress returns and the health reform battle begins, this week's PULSE CHECK features two key figures on opposite sides of the Affordable Care Act. First, Rep. Phil Roe joins POLITICO's Dan Diamond (starts at the 1:40 mark) to explain his new ACA replacement proposal, which is backed by the Republican Study Committee, why he thinks Obamacare is in a "death spiral," and what he knows as a doctor who spent decades treating patients in rural Tennessee. After the break, Leslie Dach — a former top HHS official and the head of Protect Our Care, a new coalition of advocacy groups — talks about the plan to defend Obamacare (starts at the 24:30 mark), how they're judging success, and why he thinks Republicans are in "disarray." He's joined by Meaghan Smith, a former HHS official now at SKDknickerbocker. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Steve Case: Trump's win was 'wake-up call' for health care investors

Wed, 21 Dec 2016 20:57:16 -0000

Steve Case made his fortune by founding AOL. A decade ago, he took a shot at fixing health care's problems with Revolution Health, a massively hyped startup. Now he's looking at health care as an investor and believes the 2016 election showed why those investments should be distributed around the country — and not just in Silicon Valley and the East Coast. Case joined PULSE CHECK to discuss how a billionaire businessman looks at health care and politics (1:55), how he thinks venture capitalists should approach the space (8:00), why he poured $100 million-plus dollars into a health care startup (13:00), his take on Donald Trump's election and the implications (25:30), how an AOL founder sees the rise of fake news (34:00), and more. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Meet the doctors who endorsed Tom Price — and the ones who call him a 'radical'

Thu, 08 Dec 2016 19:18:37 -0000

Seven years ago, the nation's biggest health care associations endorsed Obamacare. Now they're throwing their support behind Rep. Tom Price, who President-elect Donald Trump picked to run HHS — and lead the effort to take Obamacare apart. What does it mean to be an advocacy organization in the Trump era, and how do those groups pick their battles? First, AAMC's Atul Grover joins PULSE CHECK (starts at the 2:20 mark) to explain what an advocacy organization does, why his organization endorsed Price, and why they're still committed to fighting for coverage expansion. After the break, Manan Trivedi (24:10) explains why the National Physicians Alliance, a smaller association, is deeply opposed to Tom Price and Trump's planned health reforms. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app. Have questions, suggestions or feedback — especially given the political changes? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Trump loves him. But is Price right for health care?

Thu, 01 Dec 2016 14:22:02 -0000

Rep. Tom Price is President-elect Donald Trump's pick to run the Department of Health and Human Services, the trillion-dollar cabinet agency that oversees Medicare, Medicaid, Obamacare and much more. But is Price ready to take on the enormous job — and what will he find when he gets there? A former HHS Secretary nominee and a well-regarded policy analyst break down what comes next. First, former Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle joins PULSE CHECK (starts at the 2:30 mark) to discuss what it was like to be nominated to run HHS, how the White House and other officials work together to craft health reform and why he thinks Democrats should find ways to work with Trump, not resist him. Then, Stuart Butler of the Brookings Institution joins PULSE CHECK (starts at the 23:20 mark) to go deep on Tom Price's policies, explain how they could change Obamacare and game out what Republicans will do next on health reform. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app. Have questions, suggestions or feedback — especially given the political changes? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Sketching out Trumpcare and saving Obamacare

Tue, 22 Nov 2016 22:16:38 -0000

It's a moment of change in Washington. In January, Democrats will be out of the White House for the first time in eight years, and Republicans will have a free hand to enact their agenda. So this episode of PULSE CHECK is about influence: specifically, who's in position to influence that agenda — and what that means for health care. First, Ed Haislmaier of the Heritage Foundation — which is playing a key role in shaping the Trump transition — joins POLITICO's Dan Diamond (starts at the 2:20 mark) to discuss his think tank's approach to health care, how Obamacare should be repealed and which conservative ideas should inform the ACA's replacement. Then, Henry Waxman joins the podcast (starts at the 25:10 mark) to share his perspective as a longtime liberal lawmaker-turned-lobbyist, how congressional Democrats should work with the Trump administration and what worries him about Republicans' looming health care reforms. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app. Have questions, suggestions or feedback — especially given the political changes? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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The Trump era: Where health care goes from here

Fri, 18 Nov 2016 03:37:22 -0000

President-elect Donald Trump wants to strike down Obamacare, and the GOP-led Congress is eager to do it. But what are the realistic next steps, when will they happen, and what shouldn’t be overlooked? Two leading conservative thinkers — including the author of an Obamacare replacement plan — explain Republicans' options and point to clues on what will happen next. First, Doug Holtz-Eakin of the American Action Forum joined PULSE CHECK (starts at the 2:55 mark) to discuss what it’s like to lose a presidential election, what an Obamacare repeal-and-replace strategy could look like, and how he thinks Trump could govern. Then, Avik Roy of the Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity joined PULSE CHECK (starts at the 28:45 mark) to talk about his dramatic year where he publicly broke with the Republican party, why he’s written his own Obamacare replacement plan, and what we shouldn’t overlook about Trump’s health policy. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app. Have questions, suggestions or feedback — especially given the political changes? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Obamacare is now endangered. But it's not dead yet.

Wed, 09 Nov 2016 19:50:04 -0000

Donald Trump's historic victory will lead to sweeping changes in America's politics and policy. That may start with health care: Trump has repeatedly pledged to immediately repeal and replace Obamacare. And he's got a GOP-led Congress to help him do it. But two influential figures — on opposite sides of the political spectrum — say the president-elect's rhetoric is about to collide with harsh reality: Rolling back the law isn't going to be easy. First, AEI's James Capretta joined PULSE CHECK (starts at the 1:35 mark) to discuss his reaction to Trump's policy-light campaign and stunning victory, why he's an advocate of Speaker Paul Ryan's repeal-and-replace plan — which is expected to be Trump's blueprint — and why he thinks the Affordable Care Act isn't totally going away. Then, Families USA's Ron Pollack joined PULSE CHECK (starts at the 23:30 mark) to explain why he's declaring "total war" to keep Obamacare alive, why he thinks Gov. Matt Bevin's failure to completely roll back the ACA in Kentucky is a promising sign, and what happens to pro-Obamacare organizations like Enroll America. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app. Have questions, suggestions or feedback — especially given the political changes? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Surgeon General Vivek Murthy: How 'America's Doctor' sees opioids, gun violence and more

Thu, 03 Nov 2016 07:41:40 -0000

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Harvard's Bob Blendon on what polling tells us about Obamacare and the election

Thu, 27 Oct 2016 18:04:11 -0000

Twelve days before the election, and more than six years after it passed, Obamacare remains one of the most divisive issues in American politics. But why are voters so far apart, and where do opinions on health reform *really* stand? Harvard's Bob Blendon has the answers. Blendon, one of the most influential figures in public polling, is now working with POLITICO on a series of polls about health care, politics and more. He joined the "Pulse Check" podcast — along with POLITICO's Executive Editor for Health Joanne Kenen — to discuss takeaways from the latest POLITICO-Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health poll (starts at the 4:10 mark), why drug prices have emerged as a potential bipartisan reform (11:40), how voters rank certain health care priorities and why abortion is the ultimate "litmus test" issue (17:00), how polling has changed over time and why Brexit went wrong (26:50), and how much we should trust polling data at all (38:00). Plus: Don't miss the lightning round quiz at 46:00. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Andy Slavitt on MACRA, Minnesota and more

Wed, 19 Oct 2016 04:19:42 -0000

Andy Slavitt is one of the most influential people in health care. He's also one of the busiest: The head of the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services has a long to-do list — and just 93 days left to do it. Back on PULSE CHECK by popular demand, Slavitt talks about Medicare's landmark physician payment law, which was finalized on Friday (starts at the 5:00 mark), Obamacare open enrollment (20:50), the concern over rising ACA rates in his home state of Minnesota and elsewhere (26:15), President Obama and other Democrats' push for the public option (29:45), the fight over Medicare's innovation center and the Part B demo (31:45), and how he feels watching the election, given that Donald Trump or Hillary Clinton will be choosing his successor (42:00). Plus: Don't miss the lightning round quiz at 47:15. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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How a doctor-turned-venture capitalist finds health care's investing opportunities

Thu, 13 Oct 2016 05:58:14 -0000

Bijan Salehizadeh enrolled at Columbia Medical School with the goal of becoming a hotshot cardiac surgeon. Just a few years later, he'd traded the operating room for the boardrooms of venture capital, where he became known as one of Silicon Valley's smartest health care investors. Now the managing director of Arlington, Va.-based NaviMed Capital — the rare "V.C. in D.C." — Bijan joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss how he fell into this career and how investors evaluate opportunities (starts at the 2:10 mark), how he got pitched by a young Elizabeth Holmes, founder of a then-fledgling Theranos (10:30), whether digital health is delivering on its promise (25:00), and more. Also: Check out the lightning round that start at 41:35. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Health Affairs editor Alan Weil on shaping the policy debate

Wed, 05 Oct 2016 07:03:53 -0000

Health Affairs is one of the most important platforms in health care. No health policy journal gets cited more often — just ask Chief Justice John Roberts, who referenced it when issuing his pivotal Supreme Court ruling on Obamacare. And no journal has done more to chronicle the industry’s transformation, with a steady stream of blog posts, podcasts, and events that supplement its traditional peer-reviewed research. On this episode of PULSE CHECK, editor Alan Weil explains how it all comes together. Weil discusses how his career began as a 30-year-old in charge of a state Medicaid program (starts at the 2:15 mark), the importance of a “continuum of evidence” when making health policy (8:50), how he edits Health Affairs and decides what makes it in (15:45), how Health Affairs has become a bigger platform (28:00), and what he thinks of President Obama and other politicians publishing in academic journals (35:30). Also: Check out the abbreviated lightning round that starts at 38:15. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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The White House drug czar on fighting addictions — including his own

Wed, 28 Sep 2016 21:32:31 -0000

More than 47,000 people died from opioid-related causes in 2014. More deaths than from gun violence. More deaths than from car crashes. And the top job of fighting opioid abuse — of setting the nation's drug policy — is on the shoulders of this week's guest, Michael Botticelli. Botticelli joined POLITICO's "Pulse Check" podcast to discuss how he approaches drug policy (starts at the 2:20 mark), who’s to blame for the opioid epidemic (7:10 mark), how the White House is working to combat the nation’s heroin and opioid problems (14:00), the connection between the aggressive war on drugs and unrest in black communities today (20:18) and how he thinks about addictions like craving exercise, sex and gambling (25:40). Also: Check out the combo lightning round and crowd-sourced questions that start at 30:20. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Anne Filipic warns Obamacare doom-and-gloom can be self-fulfilling

Wed, 21 Sep 2016 20:50:10 -0000

Obamacare rates are going up 25 percent and insurers are dropping out. It's been a rough few months for the law — and pundits' doom-and-gloom predictions are only making Anne Filipic's job harder. Filipic is president of Enroll America, the non-profit group dedicated to boosting Obamacare enrollment, and she says that the reality on the ground is much more positive than the picture painted in D.C. And Filipic, who was then-Sen. Barack Obama's Iowa field manager in 2007, talks about how her team is again approaching Nov. 1 open enrollment like a national political campaign. Filipic joined POLITICO's "Pulse Check" podcast to discuss how she's thinking about Obamacare's looming open enrollment (starts at the 2:35 mark), whether she's worried about the future of the law (13:30 mark), how she shifted from White House official to health care leader (21:15), what Donald Trump means, and doesn't mean, for Obamacare (28:30) and how becoming a mom has changed her relationship with her work (35:20). Plus: Don't miss the lightning round quiz at 39:10. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Aneesh Chopra on why health care's data revolution has arrived

Thu, 15 Sep 2016 19:45:36 -0000

Aneesh Chopra has a lot of titles. He was the nation's first Chief Technology Officer, under President Obama. He's been a venture capitalist, a consultant, an entrepreneur and an author. And according to David Axelrod, Chopra is an evangelist for the power of “digitizing information” — especially in health care. Chopra joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to reminisce about what they learned at the Advisory Board (starts at the 2:30 mark), why Chopra left the private sector to go work for Tim Kaine (8:15), what he did as the White House’s first CTO and his perspective on Obamacare (14:30), why he’s so bullish on the power of health data (23:30), why he thinks the government is leading the way (32:30), and what Silicon Valley can do in health care (40:15). Plus: Don't miss the lightning round quiz at 51:10. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Obamacare’s CEO on what’s next after Aetna’s exits

Thu, 18 Aug 2016 03:21:15 -0000

Insurers like Aetna are dropping out. Rate requests are on the rise. It’s been a messy few weeks for Obamacare — and it’s Kevin Counihan’s job to clean it up. After Obamacare's exchanges sputtered to launch in 2013, Counihan was hired as marketplace CEO to make sure that a management mistake like that never happened again. But with major players like Aetna and UnitedHealth mostly walking away, and the remaining insurers asking for 24% rate hikes on average, Counihan's facing the biggest challenges of his tenure. Counihan sketches out his job as Obamacare’s marketplace CEO (starts at the 3:00 mark), explains how he’s thinking about the turnover in the market and why Aetna’s exit from 11 states is business as usual (4:30), who’s poised to win on the exchanges (9:45), how HHS is working to plug gaps as Aetna and other insurers walk away from markets (12:45), whether it matters if large insurers participate at all (19:00), how he’s approaching customers who are loath to purchase coverage (25:00), and why he’s not sweating Donald Trump getting rid of Obamacare (29:30). We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Marilyn Tavenner on implementing Obamacare — and then lobbying to change it

Wed, 10 Aug 2016 22:21:33 -0000

At the start of 2015, Marilyn Tavenner held one of the most important jobs in health care: Implementing Obamacare, as the head of CMS. Six months later, she'd swapped it for a completely different major role: Lobbying to change Obamacare, as the head of America's Health Insurance Plans. It's an unusual career shift, and it's given Tavenner — a long-time government official turned top lobbyist — a rare perspective on the changes unfolding in the industry. Tavenner talks about her early career as a nurse (2:20), her experience working for Tim Kaine in Virginia (5:30), the bumpy launch of Healthcare.gov and what Steven Brill's book gets wrong (9:45), what she'd have done differently as head of CMS and what she thinks of her successor Andy Slavitt (14:25), how she's doing on her top priorities and the reasons behind her unusual move from CMS to AHIP (17:50), the state of the health insurance industry (26:30), and what she sees ahead for Obamacare, Donald Trump, and more in 2016 (33:15). Plus: POLITICO's Paul Demko joins Dan to discuss his reporting on the health insurance industry. (39:50) We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Lanhee Chen on coming to terms with the rise of Trump

Tue, 19 Jul 2016 19:41:30 -0000

As a top adviser to the Rubio campaign, Lanhee Chen fought Donald Trump's stampede through the primaries. Now he's coming to terms with the movement reshaping the Republican party — but that doesn't mean he's happy about it. Chen joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss his growing career as a TV pundit (starts at the 1:50 mark), what he learned as the policy director of the 2012 Romney-Ryan campaign (6:15), what a Romney presidency would've looked like (15:00), why the Rubio campaign failed and Trump won the nomination (18:00), where the GOP really stands on health care (24:15), his thoughts on Obamacare (32:15), and perceptions of a wonk gap between conservatives and liberals (38:00). Plus: Don't miss the lightning round quiz at 44:00. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Kate Baicker on busting Obamacare myths

Thu, 14 Jul 2016 05:01:00 -0000

The politics of health care are messy. Obamacare is haunted by myths. And that's why Harvard's Kate Baicker — a former White House economist and one of the nation's most acclaimed researchers — is so focused on using evidence, not anecdotes, to shape America's health policies. Baicker talks about building a career in research (starts at the 1:55 minute mark), her pioneering work with the Oregon Health Insurance Experiment (8:45), what she thinks of Obamacare’s cost controls and President Obama’s pitch for a public option (24:30), whether the ACA did enough to bend the cost curve (34:00), and what beltway pundits get wrong about health policy (41:30). Plus: Don't miss the lightning round quiz at 46:10. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Sen. Lamar Alexander on why the next president needs to make a deal on Obamacare

Wed, 29 Jun 2016 22:34:55 -0000

Lamar Alexander is one of the most consequential legislators in Washington. The Tennessee Republican leads the Senate HELP committee — arguably the most important congressional committee for health care right now — and he's working to pass major bills on mental health, opioids and biomedical innovation and more. Sen. Alexander joined POLITICO’s Dan Diamond to discuss how his education background informs his perspective on health care(starts at the 2:40 mark), where several major pieces of health care legislation stand (9:45), why we need more funding for NIH (12:30), his thoughts on Obamacare (22:30), and what he learned from running for president and how he thinks about this year's race (29:45). We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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What the GOP health plan really means, with Douglas Holtz-Eakin

Thu, 23 Jun 2016 02:29:38 -0000

House Republicans say they finally have a plan to repeal and replace Obamacare — six years after the Affordable Care Act passed. And Douglas Holtz-Eakin, who wrote Sen. John McCain’s health plan in 2008 and now runs the American Action Forum, insists we need to take it seriously. Holtz-Eakin joined POLITICO’s Dan Diamond to make the case for the GOP’s white paper (starts at the 3:00 mark), what conservative policy wonks want to change about taxing health insurance (8:50), how he grades Republicans’ signature health care ideas (13:00), why he’s pessimistic about the Affordable Care Act (19:45), how he thinks a potential President Donald Trump would use the plan (27:20), and what he learned from writing the 2008 McCain campaign’s health plan (30:45). Plus: Don’t miss the lightning round at 39:30. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Why the Part B fight is roiling Washington

Thu, 16 Jun 2016 20:09:26 -0000

Medicare's planned Part B pilot is either a necessary fix to a broken drug payment system — or the first step to President Donald Trump dismantling the Affordable Care Act. It all depends whom you ask. And this week, we asked Peter Bach and Ted Okon — a high-profile proponent and opponent of Medicare's pilot, respectively — to make their case. Bach joined Dan Diamond to discuss why drug spending has become such a huge problem (starts at the 2:00 mark), why Medicare's trying to change how it pays doctors for drugs (6:00), and how he defends the pilot against charges that it's an over-reach (14:15). Okon joined Dan to explain his criticism of Medicare's pilot (25:20), why he thinks the Part B demo is a dangerous over-reach (34:50), and why oncologists are especially vulnerable to payment changes (43:00). Plus: POLITICO's Sarah Karlin-Smith and Brett Norman join Dan to referee the Part B fight and predict what happens next. (49:17) We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Peter Hotez on how Zika is America's next disaster

Thu, 09 Jun 2016 03:35:33 -0000

Peter Hotez has fought hookworm in Africa, demystified Ebola fears in America, and worked to eradicate many other infectious diseases over his storied thirty-year career. Now the Houston-based public health leader is confronting Zika — and he's worried that the Gulf Coast is in line for a financial and human disaster on the scale of Hurricane Katrina. Dr. Hotez joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss how poverty is making the world sick (starts at the 1:45 mark), how the United States is partially to blame for creating the West's mosquito problem (6:15), why he's concerned about Zika and partisan politics hurting public health (10:20), how the cost of Zika will rival a natural disaster (16:10), and why he's getting worried about an explosion of disease in Europe. (26:45) In a bonus, POLITICO's Paul Demko — who covers the health insurance beat — explains the latest news about Obamacare rate hikes and how it's playing on the campaign trail (31:30). We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Karen DeSalvo on how data will transform health care

Thu, 02 Jun 2016 03:22:39 -0000

Growing up, Karen DeSalvo never planned to have one of the nation’s most important health care jobs. Now she has two of them. As National Coordinator for Health Information Technology, she’s the White House’s point person on digitizing health care — and as acting Assistant Secretary for Health, she also helps guide the nation's public health strategy. Dr. DeSalvo joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss how she’s shaped by her upbringing (starts at the 1:20 mark), her perspective as New Orleans health commissioner post-Katrina (4:20), how she balances her two big jobs (15:45), the nation’s progress on digital records (20:00), and why white life expectancy has declined (32:00). Plus: Don't miss the lightning round quiz at 42:00. We’d appreciate your help: Please share PULSE CHECK and rate us on your favorite podcast app! Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Tom Frieden on Zika's unprecedented threat

Thu, 26 May 2016 03:31:16 -0000

The nation's top infectious disease doctor doesn't scare easy. But Tom Frieden — the head of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention — is deeply worried about the rise of Zika virus, which is spreading across the Americas and causing birth defects in babies. And he's shocked that Congress, which has refused to fund the White House's emergency Zika request, doesn't share his concern.

Dr. Frieden joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to explain how he thinks about global disease threats (starts at the 2:00 mark), why Zika is posing an unprecedented threat (4:30) and why CDC desperately needs funding to fight the ongoing outbreak (8:50), what's behind the nation's opioid epidemic (17:20), and whether Americans' public health is really getting better (21:30) Plus: Don't miss the lightning round quiz at 24:50.

In a bonus, POLITICO's Nancy Cook — who's been tracking health care issues on the 2016 campaign trail — explains why Republican candidates for Congress are starting to talk about the opioid epidemic, and what we know about Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump's health plans (28:40).

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Ron Klain on why we beat Ebola — but are losing on Zika

Wed, 18 May 2016 23:41:08 -0000

Only a few people know what it's like to lead the White House's response to a public health crisis. Ron Klain is one of them. He was chosen in 2014 by President Obama to steer the U.S. effort to fight Ebola, just when it looked like the outbreak was about to spiral out of control.

Ron joined POLITICO's Dan Diamond to explain how he became the U.S. Ebola "czar" (starts at the 2:00 mark), why he thinks the nation is losing the current fight against Zika (8:25), why a travel ban was a "horrible idea" for Ebola and would be "pointless" for Zika (17:00), why he wouldn't cancel Brazil's Olympics yet (23:00), how he'd design a new federal agency to fight the next public health emergency (24:30), and how fighting Ebola compares to his experiences in the Bush v. Gore recount, the Clarence Thomas hearings, and other high-profile Washington battles (32:00). Plus: Don't miss the lightning round quiz at 36:45.

In a bonus, POLITICO's Jen Haberkorn — who's been covering the Zika funding fight on the Hill — offers details on the latest funding packages and why Congress is dawdling (41:00). Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Chip Kahn on Harry, Louise – and Hillary

Thu, 12 May 2016 07:28:32 -0000

Pick a health care battle in D.C. over the past three decades. Chip Kahn's been at the center of it — first as a top insurance lobbyist, then as a key Capitol Hill staffer, and now as the head of the Federation of American Hospitals. Chip sat down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond to talk about how he shaped the infamous "Harry and Louise" ad campaign (starts at the 3:10 mark), what it takes to be an effective Washington lobbyist (11:00), how the hospital industry is evolving amid reforms (16:00), whether bipartisan health policymaking is doomed (23:00), if supporting Obamacare hurt him among Republicans and his perspective on Medicare's controversial Part B demo (30:00), and how he sees the 2016 election for health care (37:45) Plus: Don't miss the lightning round quiz at 44:45. Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Farzad Mostashari on how government really works

Thu, 05 May 2016 02:10:47 -0000

Farzad Mostashari has been on the frontlines of health care's biggest stories — from New York City's war on smoking to the Obama administration's $30 billion push for electronic health records. Now he's the CEO of Aledade, a fast-growing company that blends digital and population health and riding the wave of Obamacare startups.

Farzad sat down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond to discuss his beginnings in public health (starts at the 2:20 mark), his move to become the nation's leader on health IT (8:55), his thoughts on the Meaningful Use program (15:00), what it's like to be a government regulator (20:30), why he started Aledade (28:00), whether MACRA is a boon for the industry (34:00), if independent doctors are endangered and how new Medicare pilots will help (41:00).

Plus: Don't miss the lightning round quiz at 48:00.

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Andy Slavitt on how CMS will win doctors' hearts and minds

Wed, 27 Apr 2016 21:02:53 -0000

Where's health care headed? No one knows better than Andy Slavitt, who runs Medicare and Medicaid — the nearly $1 trillion gorilla that shapes the industry — and who runs point on implementing Obamacare. Andy sat down with POLITICO's Dan Diamond to explain what it's like to lead one of the government's biggest agencies (starts at the 2:00 mark), how he got into health care and his efforts to demystify CMS (5:45), what it was like to be a contractor on the failed Obamacare exchange launch (18:00), how a Republican president could pick his successor (26:45), his thoughts on payment reform pilots (31:00), UnitedHealthcare pulling out of the ACA exchanges (39:00), why rising drug prices could be the top issue for Andy's successor (43:00), and how CMS lost the hearts and minds of doctors — and how the new physician payment rule, called MACRA, is going to get them back. (46:45) Plus: Don't miss the lightning round quiz at 54:45. Have questions, suggestions or feedback? Email ddiamond@politico.com.

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Coming soon: POLITICO's Pulse Check

Mon, 25 Apr 2016 22:37:57 -0000

Introducing POLITICO's new health policy and politics podcast — Pulse Check, hosted by Dan Diamond! Subscribe to this feed for the latest updates.

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