Tuesday, March 31, 2020

Emory launches a new online tool for COVID-19 screening

Emory launches a new online tool for COVID-19 screening: Emory doctors have helped create a new online tool to assist people in screening themselves for symptoms of the coronavirus.

Georgia mayors up the pressure on Kemp for stricter coronavirus measures

Georgia mayors up the pressure on Kemp for stricter coronavirus measures: With Gov.

Georgia surpasses 3K cases of coronavirus; 102 deaths

Georgia surpasses 3K cases of coronavirus; 102 deaths: [8:07 p.m.

COVID-19 in Georgia: Signs of progress with words of warning

COVID-19 in Georgia: Signs of progress with words of warning: A new statistical model suggests coronavirus deaths in Georgia should peak April 23, according to Dr. Carlos del Rio of Emory University.

Limited testing poses challenges to mapping COVID-19 spread

Limited testing poses challenges to mapping COVID-19 spread: Researchers and companies are trying new approaches to map the novel coronavirus' spread. It's a challenge, given the limited number of tests available to confirm where cases actually are.

Hospitals redeploy specialists to COVID-19 front lines

Hospitals redeploy specialists to COVID-19 front lines: Specialists like anesthesiologists, orthopedic surgeons and cardiologists, who don't typically treat infectious disease patients, are heeding calls from overwhelmed hospitals to help treat the rising number of COVID-19 patients.

Monday, March 30, 2020

A Parent's Guide to Fighting Coronavirus Stress

A Parent's Guide to Fighting Coronavirus Stress: Stressed-out parents should reach out to others for support during the coronavirus pandemic, child health experts say.

Do Gene Mutations Explain COVID-19 Cases in the Young?

Do Gene Mutations Explain COVID-19 Cases in the Young?: Genetic mutations that put some younger people at high risk for severe illness from the new coronavirus will be investigated in an international study.

Critical Updates on COVID-19

Critical Updates on COVID-19

Coronavirus vaccine clinical trials start at Emory in Atlanta - News - The Augusta Chronicle - Augusta, GA

Coronavirus vaccine clinical trials start at Emory in Atlanta - News - The Augusta Chronicle - Augusta, GA: Clinical trials to study a potential new vaccine for coronavirus began Friday morning at Emory University in Atlanta, the school announced.The study trials, which started earlier this month in Seattle, are the first phase of a process expected to take at least a year to complete. Overseen by the National Institutes of Health, the trials mark the first official testing of a possible COVID-19 vaccine in the U.S.There is no cure or preventative vaccine yet for the novel strain of coronavirus,

Early data show average age of Georgia deaths from virus much lower than global figure | Georgia Health News

Early data show average age of Georgia deaths from virus much lower than global figure | Georgia Health News

The Latest: How Georgia is responding to the coronavirus outbreak

The Latest: How Georgia is responding to the coronavirus outbreak: In this episode of the Politically Georgia podcast, host Greg Bluestein and enterprise reporter Tamar Hallerman discuss the latest in Georgia’s coronavirus news.

HHS wants hospitals with in-house labs to report COVID-19 results daily

HHS wants hospitals with in-house labs to report COVID-19 results daily: Vice President Mike Pence wrote hospitals saying that in-house labs are not tracked the same as private labs. The data is needed to get a complete picutre of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Independent physicians push for expedited COVID-19 aid

Independent physicians push for expedited COVID-19 aid: Many private-practice physician groups have seen in-person visits drop 40% to 60%, jeopardizing their viability.

Friday, March 27, 2020

The American Academy of Pediatrics Advises Parents Experiencing Stress over COVID-19

The American Academy of Pediatrics Advises Parents Experiencing Stress over COVID-19: AAP.org

House Speaker Ralston calls for Georgia primary delay until June

House Speaker Ralston calls for Georgia primary delay until June: Georgia House Speaker David Ralston said Thursday the primary election should be postponed again, this time until June, because of the coronavirus.

State sending more help to embattled Phoebe Putney in Albany | Georgia Health News

State sending more help to embattled Phoebe Putney in Albany | Georgia Health News

COVID-19 in Georgia: Confirmed cases soar and outlook stays grim

COVID-19 in Georgia: Confirmed cases soar and outlook stays grim: As of March 26, only five states had reported more deaths than Georgia from the coronavirus disease COVID-19, according to the latest available data.

Congress set to finalize massive coronavirus relief bill on Friday

Congress set to finalize massive coronavirus relief bill on Friday: The U.S. House of Representatives is set to approve a $2.2 trillion coronavirus rescue bill as the pandemic continues taking a devastating toll on the U.S. economy and health care system.

City under siege: Coronavirus exacts heavy toll in Albany

City under siege: Coronavirus exacts heavy toll in Albany: A rapidly growing rate of coronavirus infections has Albany under siege.

Thursday, March 26, 2020

No timetable for widespread coronavirus testing in Georgia

No timetable for widespread coronavirus testing in Georgia: A shortage of kits and testing supplies nationally means rationing of coronavirus tests is likely to continue in Georgia.

Georgia’s coronavirus toll climbs to 48 deaths, 1,525 cases

Georgia’s coronavirus toll climbs to 48 deaths, 1,525 cases: Georgia’s confirmed coronavirus cases increased to 1,525 on Thursday, nearly doubling the numb...

Kemp: Georgia public schools to remain closed through April 24

Kemp: Georgia public schools to remain closed through April 24: In a move affecting nearly 2 million children and their parents, Gov.

State COVID-19 toll jumps within hours; sterilizing facilities get regulatory break | Georgia Health News

State COVID-19 toll jumps within hours; sterilizing facilities get regulatory break | Georgia Health News

Getting Through, Making Memories and Being the Grown-Ups - The New York Times

Getting Through, Making Memories and Being the Grown-Ups - The New York Times: You can’t change the world, but you can help shape the way your children experience this and remember it. And you will. You’re the person they need.

Quarantine: How to prepare for possible coronavirus infection - CNN

Quarantine: How to prepare for possible coronavirus infection - CNN: You've had the phone call with your health provider and gotten the news -- yes, you have symptoms that might be Covid-19 and need to go into quarantine. Now what do you do?

FDA warns of EpiPen device malfunctions

FDA warns of EpiPen device malfunctions: The EpiPen and EpiPen Jr. devices may have delayed injections or fail to inject properly due to design issues or improper administration by users, the FDA alert said.

CMS withdraws rule to crack down on Medicaid eligibility

CMS withdraws rule to crack down on Medicaid eligibility: The CMS withdrew its proposed rule to crack down on state Medicaid eligibility determinations, which would have made it tougher for eligible people to enroll in the program and maintain coverage. The move comes as unemployment spikes during a massive public health crisis.

COVID-19 economic stimulus deal includes billions in hospital funding

COVID-19 economic stimulus deal includes billions in hospital funding: Senate leadership and Trump administration officials reached an agreement on a COVID-19 economic stimulus deal that includes $130 billion to bolster the healthcare system.

Wednesday, March 25, 2020

With deadline nearing, Kemp faces decision on how long to keep schools...

With deadline nearing, Kemp faces decision on how long to keep schools...: Gov.

Magnetic Field Exposure in Utero May Heighten Kids' Risk of ADHD | MedPage Today

Magnetic Field Exposure in Utero May Heighten Kids' Risk of ADHD | MedPage Today: Exposure may also increase risk of ADHD with immune-related comorbidities such as asthma

Will you step up now to help clinics for the poor? | Georgia Health News

Will you step up now to help clinics for the poor? | Georgia Health News

The Jolt: 538 Georgia cities asked to declare public health emergencies

The Jolt: 538 Georgia cities asked to declare public health emergencies: The Georgia Municipal Association on Tuesday morning urged the leaders of all 538 cities in the...

Phoebe Putney sees more deaths, reports lack of cooperation by some hospitals | Georgia Health News

Phoebe Putney sees more deaths, reports lack of cooperation by some hospitals | Georgia Health News

With masks, ventilators in short supply, governors and hospitals call for federal intervention - The Washington Post

With masks, ventilators in short supply, governors and hospitals call for federal intervention - The Washington Post: The market for medical supplies has descended into chaos, according to state officials and healthcare leaders. They are begging the federal government to bring order and ensure the United States has the gear it needs to battle coronavirus. So far, the Trump administration has declined.

CMS approves Medicaid waivers for 11 states in response to COVID-19 crisis

CMS approves Medicaid waivers for 11 states in response to COVID-19 crisis: The list of states includes Alabama, Arizona, California, Illinois, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, and Virginia. Last week, the CMS approved COVID-19 related state waivers for Florida and Washington.

As COVID-19 cases threaten capacity, children's hospitals resist taking adults

As COVID-19 cases threaten capacity, children's hospitals resist taking adults: New guidelines from the Children's Hospital Association stopped short of recommending its 200 members accept adult patients if general acute-care hospitals become overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients. The group's CEO said doing so would be unsafe.

COVID-19 economic stimulus deal includes billions in hospital funding

COVID-19 economic stimulus deal includes billions in hospital funding: Senate leadership and Trump administration officials reached an agreement on a COVID-19 economic stimulus deal that includes $130 billion to bolster the healthcare system.

Tuesday, March 24, 2020

COVID-19 | Georgia Medicaid

COVID-19 | Georgia Medicaid: Telehealth guidance for Medicaid/PeachCare for Kids®/Fee-for-service Providers

Stimulus Bill Would Boost Liability Protection for Volunteer Docs

Stimulus Bill Would Boost Liability Protection for Volunteer Docs: The embattled Senate stimulus package, if approved, would remove a troubling legal barrier by providing limited liability protection for doctors and other caregivers who volunteer across state lines during the coronavirus emergency.

The science of why coronavirus is so hard to stop - The Washington Post

The science of why coronavirus is so hard to stop - The Washington Post: The science behind what makes this coronavirus so sneaky, deadly and difficult to defeat

What happens to people's lungs when they get coronavirus? | World news | The Guardian

What happens to people's lungs when they get coronavirus? | World news | The Guardian: Respiratory physician John Wilson explains the range of Covid-19 impacts, from no symptoms to severe illness featuring pneumonia

Clinicians Struggle With PPE Shortages | MedPage Today

Clinicians Struggle With PPE Shortages | MedPage Today: 'We are told every day to defy ... scientifically proven best practices'

Kemp shuts bars, clubs, orders restrictions for medically fragile; 2 more die at Phoebe Putney | Georgia Health News

Kemp shuts bars, clubs, orders restrictions for medically fragile; 2 more die at Phoebe Putney | Georgia Health News

Fauci May Be Earning Praise From Public, But President Might Be Losing Patience With Doctor | Kaiser Health News

Fauci May Be Earning Praise From Public, But President Might Be Losing Patience With Doctor | Kaiser Health News: Dr. Anthony Fauci has emerged as a leading voice in the government's response. But as he continues to correct President Donald Trump's statements on the outbreak, some think the White House may be growing tired of the contrast. Meanwhile, Trump's daily briefings give him a way to present himself and his message to voters despite social distancing measures.

Man dies, wife in critical care after ingesting chloroquine for COVID-19

Man dies, wife in critical care after ingesting chloroquine for COVID-19: Banner Health said the couple ingested chloroquine phosphate, which is used to clean fish tanks, in an attempt to prevent or treat coronavirus.

Clinics switch to virtual patient visits to limit coronavirus exposure

Clinics switch to virtual patient visits to limit coronavirus exposure: For the first time in his long career as a family care practitioner, Dr.

Additional money headed to Georgia food stamp recipients amid virus

Additional money headed to Georgia food stamp recipients amid virus: Georgia’s 1 million food stamp recipients will get additional money this month as state offici...

The coronavirus claims two Georgia healthcare workers

The coronavirus claims two Georgia healthcare workers: Two Georgia health care workers have died after contracting COVID-19, apparently the state’s first medical personnel claimed by the pandemic.

Georgia governor orders steps to increase social distancing

Georgia governor orders steps to increase social distancing: Gov. Brian Kemp placed restrictions on the Georgians considered most at risk of infection.

Monday, March 23, 2020

Georgia’s governor, leaders of other state push Congress for aid

Georgia’s governor, leaders of other state push Congress for aid: Georgia’s governor, leaders of other state push Congress for aid

Georgia approves quick licenses for out-of-state nurses

Georgia approves quick licenses for out-of-state nurses: Georgia will quickly review applications from out-of-state nurses, according to procedures approved by the Georgia Board of Nursing. Temporary licenses will be reviewed in 24 hours; regular licenses will be reviewed in seven days.

Georgia coronavirus: 12-year-old girl hospitalized and on a ventilator - CNN

Georgia coronavirus: 12-year-old girl hospitalized and on a ventilator - CNN: Emma, a 12-year-old girl, is "fighting for her life" in an Atlanta hospital after testing positive for the coronavirus, according to her cousin.

Coronavirus outbreak: Live updates on COVID-19

Coronavirus outbreak: Live updates on COVID-19: Live updates from Modern Healthcare on the coronavirus outbreak and how COVID-19 is affecting the healthcare industry.

Coronavirus Threatens The Lives Of Rural Hospitals Already Stretched To Breaking Point | Kaiser Health News

Coronavirus Threatens The Lives Of Rural Hospitals Already Stretched To Breaking Point | Kaiser Health News: Almost half of the nation's rural hospitals operate in the red on a good day. But amid the coronavirus pandemic, rural hospital CEOs warn that soon some may be unable to pay their workers. And their doors may close when the community most needs them.

CDC Coronavirus Testing Decision Likely To Haunt Nation For Months To Come | Kaiser Health News

CDC Coronavirus Testing Decision Likely To Haunt Nation For Months To Come | Kaiser Health News: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention gave huge cities roughly the same number of test kits as some rural spots, which crippled efforts by health officials to contain the virus.

FDA urges state to reopen Sterigenics for coronavirus, residents skeptical

FDA urges state to reopen Sterigenics for coronavirus, residents skeptical: The federal Food and Drug Administration sent a letter to Gov. Brian Kemp this week urging Georgia to allow a controversial sterilization plant in Cobb County to reopen amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Coronavirus: Rising toll, relaxed rules, and questions on CDC role | Georgia Health News

Coronavirus: Rising toll, relaxed rules, and questions on CDC role | Georgia Health News

$2 trillion coronavirus rescue package still being debated by Congress

$2 trillion coronavirus rescue package still being debated by Congress: Top-level negotiations between Congress and the White House churned late into the night over a now nearly $2 trillion economic rescue package, as the coronavirus crisis deepened, the nation shut down and the first U.S. senator tested positive for the disease.

CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: 620 cases confirmed in Ga., 25 deaths

CORONAVIRUS UPDATE: 620 cases confirmed in Ga., 25 deaths: The number of deaths caused by coronavirus in Georgia grew to 25 Sunday evening, according to health...

Kemp faces growing pressure to enact new coronavirus restrictions

Kemp faces growing pressure to enact new coronavirus restrictions: Gov.

Friday, March 20, 2020

America’s Frontline Physicians Recommend Further Actions to Address COVID-19

America’s Frontline Physicians Recommend Further Actions to Address COVID-19: AAP.org

Kemp responds to ‘serious’ cluster of COVID-19 in Albany | Georgia Health News

Kemp responds to ‘serious’ cluster of COVID-19 in Albany | Georgia Health News

Doctors Say Shortage of Protective Gear Is Dire During Coronavirus Pandemic - The New York Times

Doctors Say Shortage of Protective Gear Is Dire During Coronavirus Pandemic - The New York Times: The lack of proper masks, gowns and eye gear is imperiling the ability of medical workers to fight the coronavirus — and putting their own lives at risk.

Many metro Atlanta schools undecided on when kids will return

Many metro Atlanta schools undecided on when kids will return: With a little less than two weeks to go on Gov.

Georgia enters dangerous phase as coronavirus deaths soar

Georgia enters dangerous phase as coronavirus deaths soar: A sharp escalation in coronavirus deaths and illnesses signals that Georgia is entering a dangerous new phase of the outbreak.

Thursday, March 19, 2020

Virus could hit Georgia revenue hard, crippling state government

Virus could hit Georgia revenue hard, crippling state government: At least some state lawmakers suspected the midyear budget that Gov.

Children Prescribed Antibiotics for Pneumonia Fared No Better Than Those Without Antibiotics: Study

Children Prescribed Antibiotics for Pneumonia Fared No Better Than Those Without Antibiotics: Study: AAP.org

Critical Updates on COVID-19- New Resource for Pediatricians

Critical Updates on COVID-19

Ga. lawmakers urged to self-quarantine after senator’s positive coronavirus...

Ga. lawmakers urged to self-quarantine after senator’s positive coronavirus...: All of Georgia’s state lawmakers were urged Wednesday to self-isolate themselves for weeks af...

Vaping's Popularity Soars as New Data Points to Heart Risks

Vaping's Popularity Soars as New Data Points to Heart Risks: E-cigarette use is rising, putting more Americans at risk of blood vessel damage and heart disease, according to three new studies.


The Doctor Gap: In Areas of Greatest Need, Primary Care Is a Team Effort

<img src="https://healthday.com/img/logos/healthday_depth.jpg" width="31%"/><br />The Doctor Gap: In Areas of Greatest Need, Primary Care Is a Team Effort: The day paramedics rushed Jeramiah Parsons to the hospital, his lips were so sore and swollen he had trouble talking. A skin-picking habit related to his methamphetamine addiction had permitted a dangerous antibiotic-resistant infection to take up residence in his face. He had no health insurance and no doctor he could call.

Trump signs second major COVID-19 relief package

Trump signs second major COVID-19 relief package: President Donald Trump has signed Congress' second major COVID-19 relief package that includes several provisions involving the healthcare industry.

Coronavirus outbreak: Live updates on COVID-19

Coronavirus outbreak: Live updates on COVID-19: Live updates from Modern Healthcare on the coronavirus outbreak and how COVID-19 is affecting the healthcare industry.

Wednesday, March 18, 2020

COVID-19 Update: Virus in All 50 States; 'Into the Swamp'; Italy Taps 10,000 Student Doctors | MedPage Today

COVID-19 Update: Virus in All 50 States; 'Into the Swamp'; Italy Taps 10,000 Student Doctors | MedPage Today: A daily roundup of news on the novel coronavirus outbreak

CMS COVID-19 National Stakeholder Call Transcript & Recording Posting


View in browser | Distributed by Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services (CMCS)
Medicaid.gov
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is taking action to protect the health and safety of our nation’s patients and providers in the wake of the 2019 Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.  In an effort to be transparent and share this information broadly, CMS will be posting several of our stakeholder calls.  CMS held a National Stakeholder Call on March 13, 2020, to update the healthcare community on the rapidly evolving COVID-19 situation which was declared a national emergency by President Trump on March 13th.   This bold move empowered CMS to waive certain federal requirements in Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP to rapidly expand the Administration’s aggressive efforts against COVID-19 led by the White House Coronavirus Taskforce. 
The transcript and audio recording from that call is now available to download. CMS will hold future calls and post those transcripts and audio recordings as they become available. To access Coronavirus COVID-19 Stakeholder calls visit:  https://www.cms.gov/Outreach-and-Education/Outreach/OpenDoorForums/PodcastAndTranscripts This call and earlier CMS actions in response to the COVID-19 virus, are part of the ongoing White House Task Force efforts. To keep up with the important work the Task Force is doing in response to COVID-19 click here Coronavirus.gov.  For information specific to CMS, please visit the Current Emergencies Website
For more information on COVID-19 visit:
Coronavirus.gov
USA.gov

Kemp doesn’t yet plan on imposing restrictions on bars, restaurants

Kemp doesn’t yet plan on imposing restrictions on bars, restaurants:   As other states impose sweeping restrictions on businesses to enforce social distancing, Gov.

6 ways to prepare your medical practice for coronavirus | FierceHealthcare

6 ways to prepare your medical practice for coronavirus | FierceHealthcare: Depending on their location in the country, many physician practices are starting to see the impact of the coronavirus. As the highly contagious virus is only likely to spread in the weeks ahead, now is the time for leaders to prepare for how they will help diagnose and treat patients and keep their practices running, says Debra A. Cooper, R.N., a senior risk management specialist with Coverys, a medical liability insurer.

As Coronavirus Testing Gears Up, Specialized Swabs Running Out | Kaiser Health News

As Coronavirus Testing Gears Up, Specialized Swabs Running Out | Kaiser Health News: Nationwide, testing for coronavirus is ramping up. But the supply of specialty swabs needed to collect potential coronavirus specimens can’t keep up with demand, creating a bottleneck in testing capabilities. So two top manufacturers are working with U.S. and Italian governments to increase production.

CMS grants Florida emergency Medicaid waiver for COVID-19

CMS grants Florida emergency Medicaid waiver for COVID-19: The CMS approved Florida's emergency Medicaid waiver request, making it the first state to gain additional flexibilities to respond to the COVID-19 crisis.

Physician practices changing their model to cope with COVID-19

Physician practices changing their model to cope with COVID-19: Physician practices are rescheduling routine appointments and enhancing telehealth capabilities as they deal with the coronavirus in their communities.

Here's what providers want in Congress' economic stimulus bill

Here's what providers want in Congress' economic stimulus bill: Providers have compiled a laundry list of requests for lawmakers to help them prepare for a surge in COVID-19 patients.

Tuesday, March 17, 2020

Paulding public school, daycare staffers test positive for coronavirus

Paulding public school, daycare staffers test positive for coronavirus: An employee of a Paulding County elementary school and a nearby childcare center have both tested po...

Health chief: Georgia seeking out medical equipment amid shortages

Health chief: Georgia seeking out medical equipment amid shortages: Georgia’s public health commissioner said Tuesday that the state is seeking out respirators, v...

Lower Severity of Kids' Coronavirus Called 'Puzzling' | MedPage Today

Lower Severity of Kids' Coronavirus Called 'Puzzling' | MedPage Today: Chinese study finds all children susceptible, but less so than adults

Testing tents rise in shadow of Kennestone | News | mdjonline.com

Testing tents rise in shadow of Kennestone | News | mdjonline.com: MARIETTA — In an effort to bolster its service of people who think they may be affected by the new coronavirus, Wellstar has set up tents on the grounds of

Many hospitals postpone surgeries, search for scarce supplies | Georgia Health News

Many hospitals postpone surgeries, search for scarce supplies | Georgia Health News

Kemp orders public K-12 schools, colleges in Georgia closed through end...

Kemp orders public K-12 schools, colleges in Georgia closed through end...: Gov.

As hospitals fight to keep up, they tell mild cases not to seek tests

As hospitals fight to keep up, they tell mild cases not to seek tests: Underscoring the continued challenges of widespread coronavirus testing, three of Georgia’s la...

Monday, March 16, 2020

Babies Are Spared Severe COVID-19 Symptoms

Babies Are Spared Severe COVID-19 Symptoms: Infants can become infected with the new coronavirus, but their bouts with COVID-19 appear to be milder than those of older folks and people with chronic health problems, experts say.

Georgia lawmakers poised to give Kemp new powers to combat coronavirus

Georgia lawmakers poised to give Kemp new powers to combat coronavirus: Georgia lawmakers gathered in a special session Monday to vote whether to grant Gov.

Georgia representative self-quarantines after exposure to coronavirus

Georgia representative self-quarantines after exposure to coronavirus: A member of the Georgia House of Representatives is in self-quarantine after coming into contact with someone who tested positive for coronavirus.

To waive COVID-19 copays, Medicaid must waive all co-pays: CMS

To waive COVID-19 copays, Medicaid must waive all co-pays: CMS: The CMS released the guidance following pressure from states and health plans for direction on using Medicaid more effectively in addressing the pandemic.

Are Kids Really Unaffected by COVID-19? | MedPage Today

Are Kids Really Unaffected by COVID-19? | MedPage Today: You passed medical training, now see if you can pass our weekly quiz

Friday, March 13, 2020

'Moderate-to-Severe' COVID-19 Seen in Chinese Kids | MedPage Today

'Moderate-to-Severe' COVID-19 Seen in Chinese Kids | MedPage Today: Children not immune from significant illness, but degree of risk unknown

Why You Can't Get Coronavirus Testing in the U.S. Right Now | Time

Why You Can't Get Coronavirus Testing in the U.S. Right Now | Time: Even with the Food and Drug Administration’s expanded rules for developing and conducting tests, uptake is slow

Number of coronavirus cases in Georgia climbs to 42

Number of coronavirus cases in Georgia climbs to 42: The number of confirmed cases of the coronavirus in Georgia has climbed to 42, the Department of Pub...

Metro Atlanta schools to close amid coronavirus outbreak

Metro Atlanta schools to close amid coronavirus outbreak: Officials held a conference call with Gov. Brian Kemp and decided as a group to move online

Georgia reports first COVID-19 death; legislative session suspended | Georgia Health News

Georgia reports first COVID-19 death; legislative session suspended | Georgia Health News

Insurers scramble to clarify what Trump meant during his major address on the coronavirus | FierceHealthcare

Insurers scramble to clarify what Trump meant during his major address on the coronavirus | FierceHealthcare: President Donald Trump's national address included a likely slip of the tongue that insurers agreed to waive all copays for coronavirus treatment rather than testing, as insurers have agreed to do. Plus, keep up with how insurers are responding with our tracker.

HCA Healthcare CEO made $27 million in first year

HCA Healthcare CEO made $27 million in first year: Sam Hazen, who took over as HCA Healthcare's CEO in 2019, made almost $27 million in total compensation his first year at the helm, which was a strong year financially for HCA.

Azar extends liability immunity in the fight against COVID-19

Azar extends liability immunity in the fight against COVID-19: HHS extended liability protection to a wide range of individuals and organizations while they help address the COVID-19 pandemic to avert industry fears over lawsuits.

Democrats propose hiking federal Medicaid payments in COVID-19 stimulus deal

Democrats propose hiking federal Medicaid payments in COVID-19 stimulus deal: Hospitals asked lawmakers to increase the federal medical assistance percentage because COVID-19 could lead to higher Medicaid enrollment and utilization.

Hospitals balance disclosure and privacy as COVID-19 spreads

Hospitals balance disclosure and privacy as COVID-19 spreads: Hospitals weigh these decisions as they toe a fine line between disclosing accurate information, complying with privacy laws and not inciting fear.

Thursday, March 12, 2020

Georgia legislature suspending session indefinitely amid coronavirus

Georgia legislature suspending session indefinitely amid coronavirus: The Georgia legislature is suspending its session indefinitely due to concerns about the coronavirus, leaders announced Thursday afternoon.

House, Senate leaders agree to budget plan with $100 million in coronavirus...

House, Senate leaders agree to budget plan with $100 million in coronavirus...: Georgia House and Senate leaders reached a deal Wednesday on a midyear budget that restores funding...

Vaping Videos Soaring on YouTube

Vaping Videos Soaring on YouTube: YouTube is awash in misleading videos touting the safety of tobacco and vaping, a new study finds.

Medical specialty group wants Trump to declare national emergency over coronavirus | FierceHealthcare

Medical specialty group wants Trump to declare national emergency over coronavirus | FierceHealthcare: As coronavirus spreads, groups that represent doctors and nurses are worried whether adequate steps are being taken to protect healthcare professionals from the virus.

Blue Shield of California to cover rapid whole genome sequencing for critically ill children | FierceHealthcare

Blue Shield of California to cover rapid whole genome sequencing for critically ill children | FierceHealthcare: Blue Shield of California will cover rapid whole genome sequencing for children with unexplained medication conditions, becoming the first health plan in the country to do so.

CMS pressed to quickly craft Medicaid action plan for COVID-19

CMS pressed to quickly craft Medicaid action plan for COVID-19: Health plans want the CMS to issue guidance to the states to deploy Medicaid more effectively in addressing the coronavirus outbreak.

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

Kincaid Elementary in Cobb closed due to coronavirus case

Kincaid Elementary in Cobb closed due to coronavirus case: An individual associated with Kincaid Elementary School in Cobb County has tested positive for the c...

Kemp announces $100 million to help deal with coro

Kemp announces $100 million to help deal with coro: Kemp announces $100 million from rainy day fund to help deal with coronavirus

Coronavirus update: New cases, Cobb Co. impact, patient tells of ordeal | Georgia Health News

Coronavirus update: New cases, Cobb Co. impact, patient tells of ordeal | Georgia Health News

A Call to Arms: Under Attack, Pro-Vaccine Doctors Fight Back - The New York Times

A Call to Arms: Under Attack, Pro-Vaccine Doctors Fight Back - The New York Times: Providers who defend vaccines face online death threats and negative reviews from fake patients. Now the staid medical establishment is finally speaking out.

Gay, Lesbian Teens at High Odds for Physical, Sexual Abuse

Gay, Lesbian Teens at High Odds for Physical, Sexual Abuse: Lesbian, gay and bisexual teens are far more likely than their straight peers to suffer physical and/or sexual violence, new research warns.

When Chronic Pain Leads to Depression in Kids

When Chronic Pain Leads to Depression in Kids: Chronic pain can keep kids from being social and active, leading to anxiety and depression, a child psychiatrist says.

CMS releases guidance for providers to handle coronavirus as U.S. cases surge | FierceHealthcare

CMS releases guidance for providers to handle coronavirus as U.S. cases surge | FierceHealthcare: Coronavirus cases are continuing to rise in the U.S. and CMS has rolled out new resources to help providers cope with the outbreak.

As Youth Suicides Climb, Anguished Parents Begin To Speak Out | Kaiser Health News

As Youth Suicides Climb, Anguished Parents Begin To Speak Out | Kaiser Health News: The suicide rate for children ages 10 to 14 almost tripled in a decade and is still rising. As parents grapple with loss, some turn to activism.

AMA fast-tracks code to bill for coronavirus testing

AMA fast-tracks code to bill for coronavirus testing: The American Medical Association will hold a special meeting to consider a new administrative code for labs and providers to report coronavirus testing to insurers.

Tuesday, March 10, 2020

Sleepless Babies May Face Emotional Troubles as Kids

Sleepless Babies May Face Emotional Troubles as Kids: Infants with chronic serious sleep problems may be at increased risk for anxiety and emotional disorders later in childhood, according to a new study from Australia.

A whirlwind day of coronavirus developments in Georgia | Georgia Health News

A whirlwind day of coronavirus developments in Georgia | Georgia Health News

UPDATED Coronavirus tracker: UnitedHealthcare to waive cost-sharing for tests; Additional March conferences cancel | FierceHealthcare

UPDATED Coronavirus tracker: UnitedHealthcare to waive cost-sharing for tests; Additional March conferences cancel | FierceHealthcare: FierceHealthcare's ongoing coverage of how the coronavirus is impacting the healthcare industry.

COVID-19 funding: Where the money goes

COVID-19 funding: Where the money goes: President Donald Trump on March 6 signed an $8.3 billion funding package to address the COVID-19 outbreak.

HHS should revive National Quality Strategy 10 years after ACA

HHS should revive National Quality Strategy 10 years after ACA: The Affordable Care Act mandated that HHS create a strategy for the nation that would serve as a road map to improve healthcare quality, but for various reasons it was never completed.

HHS releases final interoperability rules

HHS releases final interoperability rules: The CMS and HHS' Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology have revealed details of their final plans to revamp how providers, insurers and patients exchange health data, more than a year after they were first proposed.

Monday, March 9, 2020

Post-Game Snacks May Undo Calorie-Burning Benefit of Kids' Sports

Post-Game Snacks May Undo Calorie-Burning Benefit of Kids' Sports: Kids get more calories from the snacks they eat after sports than they burn while playing, which could add up to thousands of extra calories a year, a new study warns.

Oklahoma governor seeks Medicaid expansion, plans block grant transition

Oklahoma governor seeks Medicaid expansion, plans block grant transition: Gov. Kevin Stitt is racing to get ahead of a ballot initiative that would establish a straight Medicaid expansion, which he opposes.

Healthcare workers concerned for safety as coronavirus cases rise

Healthcare workers concerned for safety as coronavirus cases rise: Healthcare workers say hospitals need to work with them to reduce their risk of contracting the coronavirus.

Private equity is increasingly investing in health care. What does it mean?

Private equity is increasingly investing in health care. What does it mean?: The terms of private equity deals are rarely disclosed, making it hard to decipher what the investments will mean for care. Here’s what you need to know.

Thursday, March 5, 2020

Georgia senate joins debate over distracted driving fines

Georgia senate joins debate over distracted driving fines: Senate Bill 479 would change the fines for distracted driving, but would not ban teenagers from using electronic devices while driving.

Testing for coronavirus gets rolling in Georgia | Georgia Health News

Testing for coronavirus gets rolling in Georgia | Georgia Health News

Top insurers commit to easing cost barriers to coronavirus testing | FierceHealthcare

Top insurers commit to easing cost barriers to coronavirus testing | FierceHealthcare: The insurance group issued a statement Thursday saying it would work to mitigate the cost concerns around testing for coronavirus.

Doctors go back to school to learn the business of medicine | FierceHealthcare

Doctors go back to school to learn the business of medicine | FierceHealthcare: When Ed Hellman, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon in Indianapolis, was learning to be a doctor he wasn’t focused on the business of medicine. But that's changed and the doctor went back to school for his MBA.

Georgia House to take up paid parental leave for state workers | Features | rockdalenewtoncitizen.com

Georgia House to take up paid parental leave for state workers | Features | rockdalenewtoncitizen.com: ATLANTA — Nearly 250,000 state employees, including 132,000 educators, would be able to take up to three weeks of paid parental leave under legislation introduced into the Georgia House of

During A Pandemic, States’ Patchwork Of Crisis Plans Could Mean Uneven Care | Kaiser Health News

During A Pandemic, States’ Patchwork Of Crisis Plans Could Mean Uneven Care | Kaiser Health News: If a coronavirus pandemic were to hit the U.S., only 36 states have blueprints for “crisis standards of care” to sort out who gets what kind of medical care amid scarce resources. And not all the plans are of high quality. That means health care providers in some states will be better prepared for a crisis than others — but all could face tough decisions.

Judge blocks Michigan's Medicaid work requirement

Judge blocks Michigan's Medicaid work requirement: The ruling comes a week before Michigan was set to notify 80,000 beneficiaries they could lose coverage.

Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Surprise medical billing legislation passes in Georgia House

Surprise medical billing legislation passes in Georgia House: Two bills that would put checks on unexpected medical bills passed the Georgia House of Representatives on Tuesday.

Centene projects $105B in revenue for 2020 on back of WellCare deal | FierceHealthcare

Centene projects $105B in revenue for 2020 on back of WellCare deal | FierceHealthcare: Centene Corporation released its 2020 guidance Tuesday evening. Here's a look at the projections.

Maine Voters Consider U-Turn On Vaccine Exemptions | Kaiser Health News

Maine Voters Consider U-Turn On Vaccine Exemptions | Kaiser Health News: States tried to tighten vaccine requirements last year in the midst of measles outbreaks, but a backlash against a tougher law in Maine put a referendum on the ballot there. Voters weigh in on Super Tuesday.

Insurers warn CMS not to end auto-enrollment for low-income individuals

Insurers warn CMS not to end auto-enrollment for low-income individuals: Health insurers and providers expressed concern that the CMS may end automatic re-enrollment for fully subsidized, low-income people who buy coverage on the ACA exchanges.

Coronavirus outbreak preparation proving difficult for providers

Coronavirus outbreak preparation proving difficult for providers: Healthcare providers face the challenge of preparing for a possible coronavirus outbreak when many questions about the nature of the virus itself remain unanswered.

Tuesday, March 3, 2020

Two in Fulton County test positive for coronavirus | Georgia Health News

Two in Fulton County test positive for coronavirus | Georgia Health News

U.S. Kids Waiting a Little Longer to Try Alcohol, Drugs

U.S. Kids Waiting a Little Longer to Try Alcohol, Drugs: It's never good news that kids are using drugs and alcohol, but fewer U.S. teens are starting before their 16th birthday, a new study finds.

Tougher Laws Reduce Gun Deaths in Kids

Tougher Laws Reduce Gun Deaths in Kids: Gun deaths in kids younger than 15 are 13% lower in U.S. states with gun-storage laws than in states without these regulations, a new study finds.

Tougher Laws Reduce Gun Deaths in Kids

Tougher Laws Reduce Gun Deaths in Kids: Gun deaths in kids younger than 15 are 13% lower in U.S. states with gun-storage laws than in states without these regulations, a new study finds.

Supreme Court agrees to hear latest challenge to ACA | FierceHealthcare

Supreme Court agrees to hear latest challenge to ACA | FierceHealthcare: The Supreme Court on Monday agreed to hear a challenge from red states that the Affordable Care Act is unconstitutional, with the case likely to be heard this fall.

Sunday, March 1, 2020

Gov. Kemp appoints Georgia coronavirus task force | Features | rockdalenewtoncitizen.com

Gov. Kemp appoints Georgia coronavirus task force | Features | rockdalenewtoncitizen.com: ATLANTA — Gov. Brian Kemp named an 18-member task force Friday to handle Georgia’s response to the coronavirus outbreak.

Pick Summer Camps Carefully When Your Kid Has Allergies, Asthma

Pick Summer Camps Carefully When Your Kid Has Allergies, Asthma: If you child has allergies or asthma, you need to take that into consideration when selecting a summer camp.

As 10-year anniversary of ACA approaches, physicians split over its future | FierceHealthcare

As 10-year anniversary of ACA approaches, physicians split over its future | FierceHealthcare: It’s been almost 10 years since the Affordable Care Act became law, and U.S. physicians are still divided about its future. And they gave their views on other critical healthcare issues.

States testing value-based payments in Medicaid managed care

States testing value-based payments in Medicaid managed care: Several states are pushing value-based payment in Medicaid managed care, but the jury is still out on which approaches work the best because there's not enough data, according to the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission.

Patient volume at Walmart Health clinics in Georgia exceeding expectations, exec says

Patient volume at Walmart Health clinics in Georgia exceeding expectations, exec says: Walmart has expanded into primary care by opening two new standalone health clinics in the last six months, pitting it against rivals also pushing into healthcare, such as CVS Health and Amazon, according to Bloomberg.

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(15) Home / Twitter