Susan Morse
CMS said new physician fee schedule rules would encourage fairer competition between hospitals and physician practices and align payment.
Senate bill would allow insurers to sell bare bones plans to one segment of the population while offering coverage to the healthier sector at lower premium rates.
Budget provides $3.5 billion for CMS administrative expenses, which is $219 million below current levels and $137 million below amount requested.
Adverse changes, such as losing a job, living conditions and socialization are big determinants of health, expert says.
Northwell's CareConnect in New York City rides losses, boosts premiums to stay in market.
State projects the program will reduce premiums by 20 percent in 2018, and more consumers may have coverage.
About 90 percent of those surveyed say an increase in consumer responsibility for the bill will impact their organizations.
Biosimilars have the potential to reduce the cost of treatment, but the savings are not realized for most providers.
Senate Majority Leader delays start of August recess by two weeks to get bill passed, other work done.
Republican administration calls 38 percent decline in number of plans proof the Affordable Care Act is failing.