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J&J Slumps As Middle East Conflict Hampers Medtech Sales
Johnson & Johnson stock fell early Tuesday as the conflict in the Middle East weighted on medical device sales.
Medicare for All Is the Big Policy Fight Splitting Democrats | WSJ Politics Newsletter for Oct. 13
Plus, Ken Paxton partied in Dubai with two fugitives from U.S. justice, and federal agents searched Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar’s home
Millions of Medicaid recipients to face draconian requirements as of 1 January
Trump’s reform law that seeks to make coverage harder to get, and to keep, includes working 80 hours per month
Experian Health Integrates Income and Employment Verification into Patient Financial Clearance to Help Streamline Medicaid Screening
COSTA MESA, Calif., October 13, 2026--Experian® Health today announced the addition of income and employment verification capabilities to Patient Financial Clearance.
UnitedHealth Group tops estimates, hikes profit outlook as insurer manages high medical costs
UnitedHealth Group said it expects 2026 adjusted earnings of at least $20.50 per share, up from a previous outlook of $19.50 to $20.00 per share.
Medicaid provider might end its coverage for Ochsner network, affecting 70,000
One of Louisiana’s four Medicaid plans might no longer cover treatment at the state’s largest healthcare network, Ochsner Health System, after Dec. 1, potentially affecting 70,000 people.
How to access home healthcare for older Mainers
Experts explain how to help find in-home care through Medicare, Medicaid or out-of-pocket.
Concept Life Sciences appoints Dr Adrijana Vinter as Chief Executive Officer
We are pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Adrijana Vinter as Chief Executive Officer. Dr Vinter brings more than 20 years of experience spanning medicinal chemistry research, commercial development and executive leadership in the pharmaceutical and contract research industry sectors.
Eye Microbiome: How Bacteria May Influence Eye Health and Disease
The ocular surface hosts a low-abundance microbial community that may help regulate immune defenses, while changes in its composition have been associated with inflammatory and infectious eye diseases. Research into the gut-eye axis and microbiome-targeted therapies suggests possible diagnostic and treatment applications, but the underlying mechanisms, causal relationships, and clinical effectiveness remain uncertain.
Dear Abby: Ready to move despite mental health struggles
I think if I have a plan in place and stay on track with medication, it would be safe.
Small group health insurance market rates announced
Media Release, Office of Superintendent of Insurance (OSI) Santa Fe, NM – The New Mexico Office of Superintendent of Insurance (OSI) has approved 2027 health insurance premium rates for the small group health insurance market. As of March 2026, over 31,000 New Mexicans were enrolled in a small group plan. The average increase across small group plans is 19.8%. These rates take effect on January 1, 2027. The carriers offering small group coverage in New Mexico in 2027 are: Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Mexico (HealthCare Service Corporation) Presbyterian Health Plan Presbyterian Insurance Company UnitedHealthcare of New Mexico UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company Key Factors Driving the Rate Increases The primary factors that contributed to the 2027 increases are: Claims Experience - Higher than expected 2025 New Mexico claims experience, which is the foundation for the 2027 rate development. Cost Trend - Higher utilization and inflation impacted healthcare costs services, which impacts medical services and pharmaceutical costs nationwide. Risk Pool Changes - Nationwide, businesses with healthier employees are opting for alternative health coverage not under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). This results ina smaller and less healthy small group ACA risk pool. Final approved rates will be posted on the OSI website. To view the carrier rate sheets and rate increase specifics, visit the Office of Superintendent of Insurance website here. The Rate Review Process Conducted by OSI The OSI rate review process focuses on approving rates for health insurance plans that are actuarially sound, not excessive, inadequate, or unfairly discriminatory and ensuring health insurance rates comply with all state and federal laws. For more information, visit the Office of Superintendent of Insurance website at https://osi.state.nm.us/en/. *** About the Office of Superintendent of Insurance The Office of Superintendent of Insurance (OSI) is New Mexico’s regulatory agency responsible for overseeing a wide range of insurance products, including private health and life insurance, auto, home, business, and title insurance. OSI regulates private health plans in the individual, small group, and large group markets, ensuring that premium rates are fair, companies are financially sound, and health care insurance coverage is reliable. While OSI does not have authority over self-funded health plans, where an employer assumes the financial responsibility for paying employee health care claims, Medicaid, Medicare, or TRICARE, OSI plays a vital role in protecting consumers by reviewing premium rates, monitoring insurance company conduct, and licensing producers (formerly known as insurance brokers and agents).
Experts launch Europe-wide framework to guide AI use in mental health
The first Europe-wide expert working group on Artificial Intelligence in mental health launches today to the ECNP congress in Munich, where the group will host an open discussion, setting out the potential, the problems, and possible directions for AI in psychiatry and neuroscience.
Dems push Medicare for All as Republicans, including Sen. Cruz, slam single-payer plan
From New York to Michigan, Medicare-for-all has become a major campaign issue this election cycle, drawing sharp opposition from many Republicans.
Dems push Medicare for All as Republicans, including Sen. Cruz, slam single-payer plan
From New York to Michigan, Medicare-for-all has become a major campaign issue this election cycle, drawing sharp opposition from many Republicans.
ASBMB 2027 organizers preview science, community and Boston
Amy Palmer of the University of Colorado Boulder and W. Mike Henne of the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, co-chairs of ASBMB 2027, explain how this gathering will inspire new ideas and drive progress in molecular life sciences.
Takeaways from probe into Roger Marshall's medical billing
A Kansas City Star analysis found that as a rural Kansas doctor before voters sent him to Washington, U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall charged an unusually high interest rate on patients’
Art of Science 2026: Discovery in full colour
WEHI’s Art of Science exhibition returns in 2026 with a vibrant collection of images and moving works that reveal the beauty, complexity and ingenuity behind medical research.
How worried should Catholics be about the pope’s health?
Pope Leo XIV announced on Sunday that he will undergo surgery this week to remove a “nodule” from his lung. The pope made the announcement at the end of his Sunday Angelus address, asking for prayers. “Dear all, recently, during some checkups, the doctors discovered a nodule in my lung. It was detected at a very early stage and was well-localized,” Leo said. “The doctors felt it was necessary to intervene, and so, following their advice, I decided to have surgery to remove it. The procedure is already scheduled for the next few days. I thank you for your spiritual support and I entrust myself to your prayers.” The Vatican press office subsequently added that Leo is scheduled to undergo surgery at the Gamelli hospital on Tuesday, Oct. 13. The pope is expected to spend up to a week in the Gamelli recovering, after which, for the moment, he is still expected to undertake his largest and longest to-date Apostolic journey, heading to Argentina, Uruguay, and Peru, beginning Nov. 6. Prayers have, understandably, poured in from dioceses around the world, accompanied by the best wishes of heads of state and international institutions. So how worried should Catholics be for the health of the pope? The Vatican’s messaging around Leo’s pending surgery is, in many ways, a new approach to papal health issues. But, despite the pope’s personal candour, the Holy See’s messaging perhaps raises as many questions as it answers. Subscribe — Leo’s decision to announce his own medical status and pending hospital stay during the Sunday Angelus is, it should be said, already something of a big deal. Traditionally, the health of popes simply hasn’t been discussed publicly or officially, until circumstances made it absolutely necessary. Memorably, in 2023 Pope Francis was rushed to the Gemelli in an ambulance, exhibiting signs of cardiac arrest according to many close to him, only for the Sala Stampa to put out a statement insisting he was merely going in for “pre-scheduled” tests. That Pope Leo has decided to announce his condition himself, with remarkable frankness, is a significant comms policy shift around the Apostolic Palace. This might reflect a deliberately more open posture, as opposed to the traditional, otiose evasiveness, and the first fruits of an American pope and American prefect of the Dicastery for Communications favoring honesty as a baseline. Equally, it must be allowed, it could be that the pope’s situation is serious enough that there would be no keeping it under wraps or playing it off, and the decision was made to be as open as possible to head off speculation about the papal health. Certainly, Leo appeared to make every effort to sound reassuring — stressing that, whatever the diagnosis is, exactly, it is “well-localized” and “early stage.” Of course, for everyone listening, talk of a “nodule” in a lung will immediately send thoughts — and prayers — running to concerns about words not used, like “cancer,” “tumor,” “begnin” or “malignant.” To be clear, none of those words may yet be medically appropriate. And there is every reason to believe and assume that Leo is giving almost as much information as he may have himself at this stage. But the context of the pope’s announcement and the timing of his surgery do reasonably raise reasonably serious concerns for Leo. We don’t know, and this isn’t to say anyone has the right to expect to know, when the routine medical checks made this discovery. It could have been last week, last month, or even earlier. As such, it isn’t really possible to say with what kind of urgency Leo is being brought in for surgery. However, there is clearly some serious urgency to the matter. Leo making the announcement and going into hospital this week, of all weeks, means he is having to miss the balance and conclusion of his global meeting of the heads of the world’s bishops conferences, which he convened in Rome this week. That, as the Vatican has announced, has meant some serious changes to the schedule, with the newly minted dean of the College of Cardinals, Cardinal Tagle, subbing in for the closing Mass on Wednesday, and the meeting’s organizers announcing that the final working document/summary of the meeting being delayed until Leo can read and feed into it. Those changes suggest that the timing of Leo’s surgery isn’t of his own choosing, and he is acting on the best medical advice he can get by moving urgently. Had this issue been discovered weeks ago, it seems reasonable to assume the pope would have seen it dealt with before the meeting began. And were it possible to delay it, even by a few days to allow the meeting to conclude as scheduled, the expectation would surely be he’d have opted for that. It cannot be excluded that Leo is simply having to fit in with the schedules of his medical team, but a man who occupies arguably the most important and prominent role in Italy, if not Western Europe, could generally be assumed to be the one whose calendar others work around. All this points to a very recent medical discovery leading to a “days matter” diagnosis, or at least suspected possible diagnosis. Of course, another factor weighing in the balance is Leo’s upcoming apostolic visit to three South American countries, including a return to Peru, where he spent many years as a priest and bishop. It is entirely possible that the doctors, and the pope himself, are more concerned about the potential knock-on effects of surgery, and the time needed for recovery, for a 71-year-old — even one as physically sound and actively sporty as Leo. The pope is due to depart Rome November 6 for his 10-day three-country trip, returning on Nov. 17. It may be that Leo has simply made the decision to allow maximum time for his own post-op recovery, and even allow for potentially unforeseen circumstances, so that he is at full strength for the landmark trip. While it might be an inconvenience, and clearly a last-minute wrench in the works for the Amoris meeting, it is possible that Leo simply weighs the importance of that conference more lightly in the balance than even the possibility of missing his homecoming trip to Peru, or even having to scale back his itinerary for the trip. If that is the case, it would suggest a real abundance of caution by the pope approaching his Latin American tour, and a sobering indication of where Leo ranks the non-synodal meeting currently underway in Rome. In any event, what can be said for certain is that the pope having to take this, of all weeks, out of his schedule for surgery and an extended hospital stay is extremely unfortunate timing. It is clear that this is a decision Leo has made on the advice of his doctors. Together, they clearly consider that the risks of delaying, even by a little as a few days, represents an unacceptable risk for the pope. Even expecting and allowing for Leo’s full and speedy recovery, that should be a very sobering thought for Catholics everywhere. Subscribe
Health Literacy Month highlights importance of finding trustworthy health information
Patients are encouraged to use credible sources and partner with their health care providers when making medical decisions.
Health coalition, library to hold community listening session Tuesday
Kentucky Voices for Health will hold a community listening session on Medicaid and school health services from 3-5 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 13, at the McCracken County Public Library.
Selma Blair arrested after allegedly assaulting two flight attendants during ‘medical emergency’
Selma Blair was arrested on Sunday after allegedly biting one flight attendant and punching another during a ‘medical emergency’ on a plane to NYC.
Trusted support improves mental health in LGBQ+ teens
Gay or bisexual teens who have someone to turn to with a serious problem have significantly better mental health outcomes than those who don't, according to a new study from Tulane University researchers.
New study set to examine how internal body signals impact mental health
Psychologists at the University of Surrey are inviting volunteers to take part in a unique new study examining how the brain processes bodily signals, like heartbeats or hunger (interoception), and whether it is connected to a person's mental health over time.
Six College of Medicine students headed to national AMA Research Challenge
Six Penn State College of Medicine students have advanced to the 2026 American Medical Association Research Challenge.
Lancet Commission identifies seventeen catastrophic threats to global health
Global experts warn that today's decisions across health, finance, climate, defense and security sectors will determine how many years of good health future generations gain - or lose - to preventable illness and early death by 2100.
Axios Live: How health care providers can reach patients in an era of mistrust
Getting past the "noise" of online sources, giving accessible medical information and encouraging questions will help earn patients' loyalty, local health leaders said at an Axios event.
UCR Health expands direct access through Blue & Gold
UCR Health is expanding access for UC employees through its direct relationship with Blue & Gold. The expansion gives members the option to choose UCR Health directly for their healthcare rather than accessing UCR Health physicians through outside provider networks.
Why Lee Health's insurance standoff stands out from others across the US
More than 30 health systems across the country are currently in disputes with insurance companies, and many of those battles center around Medicare Advantage.
Here are the results of an independent look at the financial health of Lancaster County\'s hospitals
Penn State Health Lancaster Medical Center’s financial status improved considerably from 2024 to 2025, during which time it shaved off almost $40 million of its operating deficit, according to an
Trump's Medicaid cuts strip refugees and other legal immigrants of their health coverage
The Trump administration has cut Medicaid coverage for hundreds of thousands of legal immigrants, including refugees and trafficking victims
Steris to acquire Pittsburgh-area medical device maker for $2.1 billion
The Xodus Medical acquisition would add a growing surgical safety business to Steris' portfolio, with the deal expected to close by the end of the year.
Pope Leo XIV Announces Surgery Following Troubling Health Discovery
Pope Leo XIV has shared an update about a recent health discovery that will require surgery. The 71-year-old pontiff said doctors found a nodule in his lung during a medical check-up. His medical team...
CVS Health’s Valuation Suggests Opportunity, but Can Earnings Deliver?
CVS Health Corporation (NYSE:CVS) operates across several areas of healthcare, including health insurance, pharmacy benefit management, and retail pharmacy services. Although its diverse range of businesses provides it with access to a variety of revenue sources, increasing medical costs, pressures relating to reimbursement, and ongoing regulatory scrutiny are still affecting its profitability. For investors, the main […]
Do Social Media Longevity Trends Actually Work?
Viral health trends across social media claim to increase both stamina and longevity, but do they really work? TODAY medical contributor Dr. Natalie Azar joins TODAY to differentiate fact from fiction by breaking down social media health claims, from cold plunges and cortisol levels to wearable trackers and more.
Women’s health R&I in Europe: growing investment, persistent gaps, and the case for a coordinated response
The evidence points to a clear but incomplete shift in women’s health R&I: political attention and investment are growing across Europe, but funding, eviden
Two Indian American scientists receive NIH innovative research awards
Neeraj Lal and Kavita Rangan among 42 recipients of federal support for early-career biomedical research projects.
MEDICAL MONDAY: Emplify Health by Gundersen receives accreditation for new psychiatry residency program
Emplify Health by Gundersen received accreditation earlier this fall for a new psychiatry residency program, clearing the way for the health system to begin recruiting its first class.
St. Mary’s and Dean nurses expand labor charges against SSM Health
Nurses at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital and Dean Medical Clinic have joined forces to expand labor charges against their parent company, SSM Health, alleging union-busting activity. St. Mary’s nurses filed federal labor charges Sept. 8, nearly two months after voting to unionize under the Service
Business as usual at the Vatican as Pope Leo prepares to have surgery to remove a lung nodule
The Vatican press office said no particular issue precipitated the tests, denying Italian media reports suggesting an inflammation had prompted the medical check-up.
Medicaid approves reentry care at Louisiana prisons, jails
Louisiana is joining 18 other states that provide federal government-supported healthcare access to incarcerated people near the end of their prison terms, with hopes it eases their reentry process.
Medicare Advantage star ratings 2027: Winners and losers
Medica and Humana saw the greatest increases in the share of enrollees with plans that earned high star ratings.
Medicaid cuts put 60,000 New York immigrants’ coverage at risk
Refugees, humanitarian parolees and survivors of abuse are among those affected by an Oct. 1 loss of federal health coverage, while the long-term future for coverage remains unclear.
Aging for Amateurs: Putting humanity and dignity into science and medicine
Education at Medical University of South Carolina began to change decades ago by incorporating themes from classic Greek thinkers and saints about the need to uphold human dignity.
New $245 million Forensic Science facility brings crime lab, medical examiner together
Wisconsin and Milwaukee County have opened a $245 million facility that brings the state’s Milwaukee Crime Lab, the county medical examiner’s office,
Op-Ed: Collaboration needed in effort to rein school health insurance costs
NJEA president Steve Beatty in op-ed addresses 34.4% increase in medical benefit rates for school employees.
Blackhawks star Connor Bedard could make season debut during homestand
The center could be in the mix for one of three upcoming home games depending on the results of a follow-up medical appointment.
Extreme heat threatens maternal health and newborn wellbeing worldwide
Extreme heat has led to a marked increase in the risks faced by pregnant women and their babies, according to a survey of 1,000 healthcare professionals in countries including Brazil, India and Zimbabwe.
The science, instinct and hard work behind Roosters’ success
Enter your email address to get each Tribune edition sent to your inbox Subscribe There’s a fair bit of unseen work that goes into winning an NRL premiership, dating back many months - just ask Simon Jones. The Sydney Roosters Head of Performance, who hails from Southland, has been in the thick of it. He played a lead role in guiding the 2026 champions through a marathon campaign that ended with a grand final win over the Newcastle Knights. The Roosters had to navigate the lengthy round-robin competition, including the pre-season, before playing through all four weeks of the finals series. It was a demanding stretch that tested the players and the staff responsible for keeping them on the field. “It is a hell of a beast, mate, to be honest,” Jones told The Roar Podcast. “There’s such a great group of staff there that know what they’re doing, and the boys are pretty professional.” Jones believed the Roosters managed the physical demands well, pointing to the health of the squad throughout the campaign and the decision to rest a significant portion of the playing group in the final round of the regular season. That call, made by head coach Trent Robinson and his coaching staff, proved valuable as the Roosters entered the finals with some energy in reserve. “We did finish the season physically where we needed to be, and we’d sort of had a pretty healthy squad all year,” Jones said. “To the team that do that, mate, mission accomplished, really.” It is the sort of work that often goes unnoticed when the spotlight falls on the players scoring tries and making match-winning plays, but Jones knows the cumulative effect of those decisions can be significant over a long season. After a win over Penrith had helped establish them as premiership favourites, losses to the Wests Tigers and Dolphins were followed by a defeat to the Panthers in the opening week of the finals. Rather than panic, the club refocused to position itself to challenge for the title. “The Tigers’ performance was probably the only one where you’re really quite disappointed because it’s hard to get to the top of the competition,” Jones told The Roar Podcast. “We had proof that we could; we knew what we needed to do. We just had to get back to that.” For Jones, the answer was not necessarily a radical change to the programme. It was about executing the basics consistently, both on the field and in preparation. “We just do the basics better than anybody else,” he said. “Whether that is actually the way you play the game or how you’re preparing, it’s just be really consistent, do the basics really, really well.” Like many professional sports teams, the Roosters are entrenched in sports science and performance data. The club has access to a range of information, including players’ sleep, GPS metrics and neuromuscular scores, helping staff assess how individuals are coping with training and competition. “We are very science-backed, and some people would say data-driven, but it’s people first,” he said. “The reason you collect all this data is to try and be the best for that person.” Jones said the club was also prepared to reconsider testing methods if they were not generating useful discussions or helping staff make better decisions. In an environment where technology is continually evolving, he believes experience and gut instinct remain important. “The data is no good unless you have conversations,” he said. “When you strip it right back, mate, trust the gut still and obviously, you know, just doing the basics really, really well.” The return of halfback Sam Walker provided a further example of the importance of individual determination and the work of the club’s medical team. Walker underwent ankle surgery late in the regular season, with his premiership campaign appearing in doubt. However, he was determined to return for the preliminary final. Jones said Walker was back at the training ground three days after surgery, walking freely enough to surprise those around him. While the surgeon’s work was crucial, Jones credited the halfback’s mindset as a major factor in the remarkable turnaround. “He was quite clear with Robbo after he got the surgery that he was going to make it back for the prelim finals,” Jones said. The Roosters’ performance programme also sits within a wider club culture that Jones believes is central to their success. Each season, players develop their own team mantra through a lengthy process facilitated by Robinson. It provides principles that the squad can connect to its actions on the field. Rather than simply carrying over the previous year’s wording after a successful campaign, the club repeats the process because the players’ ownership of it is what gives it meaning. “When it’s led, player-owned and player-led, mate, it’s really powerful,” Jones said. Get more from Logan Savory in the Substack app Available for iOS and Android Get the app Jones joined the Roosters in 2024 and said the environment had evolved as experienced players departed and younger members of the squad took on greater responsibility. Maintaining continuity in the club’s culture and preparation had helped the group navigate those changes. The premiership was a significant achievement for Jones, who acknowledged how difficult it was to win the NRL’s ultimate prize. However, he is already looking at how the performance programme can improve. “There’s still things within my role and things that I’d like to help improve at the club,” he said. For Jones and his team, the challenge now is to review the season, refine their systems and prepare for another campaign. The celebrations may have followed a memorable title win, but the work behind the scenes never really stops. The Southland Tribune is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Subscribe
HealthSource, UC Health partner on $60M Clermont County medical office
Construction officially begins later this month at the site in Southwest Ohio.
John Stamos speaks out on Beach Boys' Mike Love's 'serious' health issues
John Stamos said it's a "miracle" that Beach Boys frontman Mike Love is on stage despite medical advice after fans shared concern about Love's health.
John Stamos speaks out on Beach Boys' Mike Love's 'serious' health issues
John Stamos said it's a "miracle" that Beach Boys frontman Mike Love is on stage despite medical advice after fans shared concern about Love's health.
Sanford Health gets new helicopter upgrade
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO) – In a rural state, medical care in the sky plays a key role. Sanford Health has recently upgraded it’s Sioux Falls-based medical helicopters with a brand new a…
Californians are ‘really losing sleep’ over this financial burden
Medical bills have become Californians’ top financial worry, a new survey finds, with many saying health care costs are forcing them to delay care and make painful tradeoffs.
Dr. Oz, Trump Medicaid director, in Nebraska to root for state rural health program, Big Red
Nebraska officials were joined Saturday by a top Trump administration official, Dr. Mehmet Oz, to announce updates in Medicaid and public rural health programs.
What agilon health (AGL)'s Jackson Clinic ACO Expansion Means For Shareholders
In late September 2026, The Jackson Clinic expanded its relationship with agilon health by joining agilon’s Senior Health Connect ACO. This extended value-based care support from roughly 8,000 Medicare Advantage seniors to an expected 9,000 additional Traditional Medicare beneficiaries. This move deepens agilon health’s role in coordinating prevention-focused primary care across Medicare programs, which could influence medical cost trends, operating efficiency, and long-term contract...
New $245 Million Forensic Science Facility Is a ‘Watershed Moment’
Officials celebrate state-of-the-art facility for county medical examiner and state crime lab.
Ferrari provide Lewis Hamilton health update after medical team visit
Lewis Hamilton had to visit the FIA medical team following the Singapore Grand Prix, after feeling unwell for the second time in three years at the Marina Bay Street Circuit.
PLANNING AHEAD: What ‘It’s Possible’ means for health care
When it comes to health care, it can be difficult to determine whether “it’s possible” that some condition, treatment, medication, hospitalization or rehab is covered, for how much, or not.
The Watch: U.S. Pharmacy Closures Are Deepening Inequities
Millions of Americans are left without access to prescription medications … Military and outdoor workers face the highest rates of death from heat … and more.
US maternity wards face wave of closures as Medicaid cuts kick in
Trump’s ‘big, beautiful bill’ spending cuts will be fully felt next year, but hospitals are already feeling the squeeze
Science can reverse heart disease. DC prefers cheap statins
Centralized medical algorithms push generic statins to millions, while federal insurance limits advanced, personalized heart care.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Recommends Science-Based Thresholds to Target Dangerous Enhanced Kratom Products
Kratom products credit: CDPH DEA takes action based on updated recommendation from HHS October 11, 2026 - WASHINGTON - On Friday, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services relesed the following: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) provided a new recommendation to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) that establishes science-based thresholds for 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH) and mitragynine pseudoindoxyl (MGPI), potent opioid compounds associated with products marketed as kratom. The Department of Justice today announced that DEA issued new Notices of Intent reflecting HHS’ updated scientific analysis and recommendations, including a new Notice of Intent for 7-OH and MGPI incorporating HHS’ recommended concentration and ratio thresholds. Following a review of available scientific data and comments, HHS Assistant Secretary for Health Admiral Brian Christine, M.D., recommended that DEA use concentration or ratio-based thresholds to determine which products containing 7-OH and MGPI are subject to Schedule I control for purposes of temporary scheduling of these substances under the Controlled Substances Act. The recommendation is designed to target concentrated or chemically altered products while distinguishing them from natural botanical kratom products, which may contain trace amounts of 7-OH and MGPI. “We are drawing a clear line between natural kratom and dangerous, enhanced opioid products,” said HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “We listened to the public, followed the science, and developed a clear recommended threshold for temporary scheduling that targets concentrated 7-OH and MGPI without sweeping natural botanical kratom into Schedule I. The Trump Administration will continue taking decisive action against dangerous products that fuel addiction while making sure our policies are grounded in rigorous science.” Under the recommendation, 7-OH and MGPI would be controlled in Schedule I for purposes of temporary scheduling when either substance alone, or their combined amount when both are present: Exceeds 1 milligram per gram in solid powders, encapsulated material, or other solid forms, or exceeds 1 milligram per milliliter in liquid preparations; or When the mass of mitragynine present divided by the mass of 7-OH, or MGPI, or the combined amount of 7-OH and MGPI if both present, is less than 100. The ratio-based approach reflects the alkaloid composition of natural kratom products and provides a way to identify products intentionally enhanced or concentrated with 7-OH or MGPI. Available scientific data indicate that 7-OH occurs naturally in botanical kratom at relatively low or trace levels, while some evidence reviewed by FDA suggests MGPI may also occur at trace levels in some natural or kratom-derived products. FDA's scientific review found that 7-OH is substantially more potent than morphine in preclinical studies, with available data indicating approximately two to nine times greater potency depending on the study. FDA also identified evidence supporting a meaningful risk of opioid-like physical dependence and withdrawal from MGPI. “Our recommendation gives DEA a scientifically supportable framework to distinguish natural botanical kratom from products that have been concentrated or manipulated to deliver dangerous levels of potent opioid compounds,” said Assistant Secretary for Health Admiral Brian Christine, M.D. “This approach allows us to focus on the products that pose the greatest threat to public health.” In July 2025, following an FDA scientific and medical evaluation, HHS recommended that 7-OH above a specified threshold be placed in Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. In July 2026, DEA announced its intent to temporarily schedule 7-OH above a specified threshold, and HHS simultaneously sought public comment on the proposed threshold. DEA subsequently temporarily placed MGPI and two synthetic 7-OH derivatives, MGM-15 and MGM-16, in Schedule I. Since then, questions have emerged about how scheduling could affect natural botanical kratom products potentially containing trace amounts of MGPI. The new HHS recommendation responds to those concerns by providing DEA with a more precise threshold based on both the concentration of 7-OH and MGPI and their relationship to mitragynine, the predominant alkaloid in kratom. HHS and FDA will continue working with DEA to protect Americans from dangerous concentrated and synthetic opioid products while ensuring federal policy is grounded in the best available science. Source: HHS
U.S. Health Secretary Kennedy's plan to study vaccine injuries comes under fire from Maine physicians
Dr. Laura Blaisdell says the U.S. already has systems that monitor and track vaccine safety. She said Kennedy should work with medical experts and pediatricians to restore, not dismantle public trust.
In Pittsburgh, Medicare Advantage shopping can be a trial. AI to the rescue?
If there was ever a job tailor-made for artificial intelligence, choosing a Medicare Advantage plan is it. Seniors in Western Pennsylvania have a blizzard...
Clover Health (CLOV) Stock Looks Reasonable Despite New 5 Star Ratings
Clover Health Investments has seen sharp swings in its share price in recent years, and the stock closed at US$4.79 most recently. With the business in the spotlight after new Medicare plan ratings, the question for investors is whether that price can be explained by its sales. The stock has delivered a very large 3 year return of about 365.0%, which puts a lot of weight on whether current revenue levels and future top line potential can support today’s valuation. Clover Health’s Medicare...
CVS Health (CVS) Opens New Pharmacy Sites As Undervalued Narrative Holds
CVS Health (CVS) is expanding its pharmacy-focused format by opening nearly 20 smaller neighborhood locations across the US in 2026, including a new Roxbury site in the Boston area. Recent headlines around CVS Health have mixed signals for investors, with Medicare Advantage star rating setbacks and a legal probe weighing on sentiment, while the extended Cardinal Health distribution deal and a reaffirmed dividend provide a steadier backdrop. Even after a one-day share price decline of 1.87%...
Health expert shares simple ways to help lower inflammation throughout the body
Clinical pharmacist Jim LaValle breaks down how diet, stress, medications, blood sugar, environmental exposures and even overtraining may contribute to inflammation — and why the gut-brain connection matters.
How healthcare and the environment can benefit from 'Green' AI
AI is already widely used in hospitals and medical research. Can a new way of thinking unleash the technology’s green credentials?
A surprisingly simple way to relieve knee arthritis pain without pills or surgery
A surprisingly simple change in how you walk could help relieve knee arthritis pain and even slow joint damage. In a year-long clinical trial, researchers found that adjusting the angle of a person's foot while walking reduced osteoarthritis pain by an amount comparable to medication, without requiring drugs or surgery. Even more promising, MRI scans revealed that participants who adopted the personalized walking technique experienced slower deterioration in a marker of knee cartilage health.
Medicaid changes discussed by health experts on Staten Island at NAACP town hall event
“My nurses now have to call patients who are going to the emergency department because they’re no longer being seen by their PCP...” said Zakiyah Allen, a registered nurse and clinical manager.
Cigna Group (CI) Could Be 56% Undervalued Following Its Health Sense Rollout
Health Sense rollout and what it could mean for Cigna Group stock Cigna Group (CI) has put its Health Sense platform at the center of a push to link health data, benefits and clinical support into a single experience for oncology and cardiometabolic patients. The model ties together information on medical history, behavioral health, pharmacy coverage, prior interactions and expected costs, then uses that context to tailor outreach and care coordination through existing Cigna Healthcare...
Medicaid cuts strip refugees and other legal immigrants of their health coverage
New restrictions took effect at the beginning of the month.
Trump’s Medicaid cuts strip refugees and other legal immigrants of their health coverage
Advocates warn that without Medicaid, many people will delay care or rely on ERs, and that will further strain the health system. The administration claims the cuts help ensure immigrants can support themselves without burdening taxpayer-funded programs.
Elevance Health (ELV) Stock May Be Undervalued Despite 2027 Medicare Advantage Plans
Elevance Health has delivered a solid share price run recently, and that move puts a spotlight on a simple question for investors who care about fundamentals. Is the current valuation of the stock properly anchored to the earnings the business is generating today? Over the past year, Elevance Health has returned 19.2%, which puts fresh pressure on the question of whether the earnings profile can carry the current share price. The planned 2027 Medicare Advantage offerings aim to simplify...
Dr. Oz, Trump Medicaid director, in Nebraska to root for state rural health program, Big Red
Dr. Mehmed Oz, Trump Medicaid director, was in Nebraska Saturday to root for state rural health grant progress and Big Red.
Trump's Medicaid cuts strip refugees and other legal immigrants of their health coverage
The Trump administration has cut Medicaid coverage for hundreds of thousands of legal immigrants, including refugees and trafficking victims.
Trump's Medicaid cuts strip refugees and other legal immigrants of their health coverage
The Trump administration has cut Medicaid coverage for hundreds of thousands of legal immigrants, including refugees and trafficking victims.
Trump’s $6 Billion Science Plan Targets AI, Moon and Mars
Trump unveils over $6 billion in science initiatives supporting AI, quantum computing, nuclear-powered Moon and Mars projects, and biomedical research.
Dr. Oz congratulates Pillen on healthcare spending, decreasing Medicaid enrollment
Dr. Mehmet Oz joined Gov. Jim Pillen over the weekend to congratulate his team on distributing Nebraska’s first cut of the Rural Health Transformation Program. Oz also praised Nebraska for being the first state to implement new Medicaid work requirements.
Trump’s Medicaid cuts strip health coverage from some legal immigrants—including refugees and victims of human trafficking
The move is part of sweeping changes to Medicaid under President Donald Trump’s 2025 tax cut and policy law.
Trump's Medicaid cuts strip refugees and other legal immigrants of their health coverage
New restrictions have stripped Medicaid coverage from certain legal immigrants, including refugees and victims of human trafficking, as part of broader federal changes to the health insurance program that are expected to force millions off their coverage.
Trump’s Medicaid cuts strip refugees and other legal immigrants of their health coverage
The Trump administration has cut Medicaid coverage for hundreds of thousands of legal immigrants, including refugees and trafficking victims.
Trump's Medicaid cuts strip refugees and other legal immigrants of their health coverage
The Trump administration has cut Medicaid coverage for hundreds of thousands of legal immigrants, including refugees and trafficking victims
12 reactions · 3 comments | A politician allegedly killed for...
A politician allegedly killed for promoting health measures in the fight against Ebola. Health workers attacked, medical facilities put on fire. What's behind people's anger in response to aid in the...
MRN BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: Dr. Christian Zwick, QMG
It’s Breast Cancer Awareness month and MRN’s Crissie Caccamo talks to Dr. Christian Zwick of Quincy Medical Group talks about breast health and regular checkups. Bank of Springfield brings you Business Spotlight.
Has Elevance Health (ELV) Earned Its Discount After Medicare Updates?
Elevance Health has delivered solid gains over the past year, and fresh product updates in its Medicare business keep the story moving. The open question for anyone looking at the stock now is whether that share price is adequately backed by the company’s earnings power. With a 19.2% return over the past year, Elevance Health has rewarded holders, which puts more focus on whether that move lines up with its earnings profile. The planned 2027 Medicare Advantage offerings aim to provide more...
Blood proteins may offer new clues to gut health in coeliac disease
Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system reacts adversely to gluten. Eating gluten causes inflammation in the gut, which can damage the intestine and impair its ability to absorb nutrients.
New forensic science and protective medicine facility opens in Wauwatosa
WAUWATOSA — Gov. Tony Evers and Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley joined local leaders Friday to celebrate the opening of a new forensic science and ... Read more
A year after the ‘ceasefire’, Gaza’s healthcare is still collapsing
Continuing attacks, restrictions on medical aid and delayed evacuations are still killing Palestinians.
‘Medicare for all’ is back. Now comes the hard part.
Turning an inspirational slogan into law gets gnarly.
What happens when you grow up not knowing your family medical history?
People who have been adopted or are in care sometimes struggle to access family medical history which could be crucial to their own health.
What happens when you grow up not knowing your family medical history?
People who have been adopted or are in care sometimes struggle to access family medical history which could be crucial to their own health.
Bankrupt Ouachita County Medical Center reportedly eyed by UAMS, Baptist Health
CAMDEN -- The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and Baptist Health have expressed interest in buying Ouachita County Medical Center, the hospital's CEO told the county Quorum Court this week.
Friends of BrainHealth grants advance dementia prevention and brain health research
For nearly 20 years, the Friends of BrainHealth donor circle has helped turn promising ideas into innovative brain health research.
New Atrium Health program causing controversy
The State Treasurer's Office is asking a judge to put a hold on a new Atrium Health program.
New Atrium Health program causing controversy
The State Treasurer's Office is asking a judge to put a hold on a new Atrium Health program.
Local healthcare officials, Rep. Jimmy Panetta sound alarm about Medicare, healthcare access
Medicare open enrollment begins next week and on Thursday afternoon, outside of Santa Cruz Community Health’s Live Oak Health Center, Rep. Jimmy Panetta and Santa Cruz healthcare officials discussed the future of Medicare and healthcare a…
Dr. Oz defends rural health care spending amid Medicaid cut questions
Dr. Mehmet Oz, administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, sat down with reporter Molly Martinez, and the conversation grew heated over spending cuts.
Dr. Oz defends rural health care spending amid Medicaid cut questions
Dr. Mehmet Oz, administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, sat down with reporter Molly Martinez, and the conversation grew heated over spending cuts.