Washington, D.C.-Although economic growth and Iraq/terrorism are the top issues shaping voter decisions this election year, healthcare tops the second tier, emerging as an area where both candidates believe they can map out distinctive positions. Republicans see the gap narrowing between those voters who believe that Democrats will handle healthcare issues better than Republicans and expect to gain by touting their efforts to expand Medicare. The Bush campaign aims to "build on our success," says campaign health policy advisor Megan Hauck, by backing association health plans, refundable tax credits, additional tax breaks for health savings accounts, and support for health information technology.
In this second part of a two-part podcast episode, Managed Healthcare Executive's Managing Editor Peter Wehrwein spoke with CeCi Connolly and Margaret "Meg" Murray about Medicare Advantage utilization and challenges, highlighting proposed CMS payment cuts and prior authorization issues.
Listen
New approvals this week include a $4.25 million gene therapy, a drug that treats hypertension in a new way, a nonsteroidal drug for Duchenne, and an oral drug for aggressive leukemia. The agency has set an action date for resubmitted Lymphir in rare skin cancer, and Celltrion has launched Zymfentra, a subcutaneous form of infliximab.
Read More
In this first part of a two-part podcast episode, Managed Healthcare Executive's Managing Editor Peter Wehrwein kicks off our new podcast series "DC Roundtable," with guests Margaret "Meg" Murray, CEO of the Association of Community Affiliated Plans, and member of MHE's Editorial Advisory Board, and CeCi Connolly, president and CEO of the Alliance of Community Health Plans, for a discussion on healthcare policy issues.
Listen