Reimbursement

Pennsylvania-based Independence Blue Cross' announcement that it will cover a complex type of genetic testing for some cancer patients thrusts the insurer into an ongoing debate about how to handle an increasing array of these expensive tests.

North Carolina's average premium increases on the Obamacare exchange are among the highest in the country, according to federal data. The Obama administration warned this open enrollment period, which closes Jan. 31, could be particularly tough because many of the sickest, and therefore most motivated, people already bought plans.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has proposed new rules it expects will expand access to analysis and data that helps employers and providers make more informed decisions about care delivery.

For some people -- especially those who are young, healthy and don't qualify for a tax credit from Covered California or other health insurance exchange -- short-term plans might make financial sense, even though they don't shield you from the Obamacare tax penalty.

North Carolina's average premium increases on the Obamacare exchange are among the highest in the country, according to federal data. The Obama administration warned this open enrollment period, which closes Jan. 31, could be particularly tough because many of the sickest, and therefore most motivated, people already bought plans.

Health insurer Centene this week said the loss of six hard drives with health information in 950,000 beneficiaries was a result of an employee error.

Hospitals and payers benefit from Medicaid expansion, according to an attorney who formerly directed the Medicaid program for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Hospitals in Medicaid expansion states fare better financially than those in states that have not adopted the Affordable Care Act initiative, according to an attorney who formerly directed the Medicaid program for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

With the final January 31 deadline for open enrollment looming, close to 9 million consumers have signed up for healthcare coverage through the marketplace, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Hospital groups and other stakeholders have spoken out against a proposal that would cut 10 percent in payments from the Medicare Part B drug pricing program. It's now up to Congress to decide whether to implement the change recommended this month by the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission.