Pharmacists, CMM key to improving outcomes for women with complex needs
In this short (3.5 minute) Pharmacy Times Peer Exchange video, panelists discuss how pharmacists play a crucial role in optimizing health outcomes for women with complex health needs through comprehensive medication management, personalized, compassionate consultations, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Clinical pharmacists provide targeted medication therapy, monitor drug interactions, offer medication counseling, manage chronic conditions, support reproductive health, and help navigate complex treatment regimens. (Pharmacy Times)
House passes bill to expand pre-deductible healthcare coverage under HDHPs
The House recently voted to codify 14 pre-deductible healthcare services through high-deductible health plans (HDHPs). The bill formalizes guidance from President Trump’s first term to increase HDHP coverage options. It allows insurers to cover low-cost medical products and services, such as beta-blockers and inhalers, before reaching deductibles. It’s supported by industry groups including the American Benefits Council and the Primary Care Collaborative. The bill was previously introduced but not enacted. It now awaits Senate approval. (Fierce Healthcare)
Practice Transformation
Trump issues executive order to strengthen healthcare price transparency
President Trump issued an executive order to strengthen price transparency regulations in healthcare. The current fragmented oversight process is one reason why comparing provider and insurer pricing data has been difficult, experts tell Modern Healthcare. It’s hard to bring down prices, as the regulation intends, without being able to make apples-to-apples comparisons. Health systems and insurers may face higher fines and more scrutiny, which has caused concerns in those parts of the industry. (Modern Healthcare)
Survey: 31 million Americans borrowed for health care in 2024
A West Health-Gallup survey found that over 31 million Americans borrowed a collective $74 billion for healthcare in 2024, despite having insurance. Borrowers were mostly under 50, with Black and Hispanic adults more likely to borrow than white adults. Overall, 58% of Americans worry about healthcare debt from major health events. The survey highlights the need for policy reform to address high healthcare costs, The Hill reports. (The Hill)
Evidence & Innovation
RFK, Jr: AI and telehealth to solution rural health care crisis
During his confirmation hearings, health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. called on technology—in particular, AI and telehealth, to solve the rural health care crisis. He envisions AI nurses with diagnostic capabilities comparable to doctors. However, as STAT reports, AI algorithms often struggle when applied to different healthcare settings, like rural hospitals. Developers are still working to narrow performance gaps in clinical AI across diverse locations. (STAT)
Policy Solutions
What does the Walgreens acquisition mean for Village MD
Walgreens Boots Alliance agreed last week to a $10 billion acquisition by Sycamore Partners, a private equity firm. Walgreens plans to close about 1,200 stores over three years. Walgreens previously announced plans to sell its stake in VillageMD, which has been piling up losses. But it’s uncertain “given its losses and the wobbly track record other retailers have had in trying their hand at healthcare services, who might emerge as a buyer for VillageMD and what a transaction might look like,” Modern Healthcare reports. (Modern Healthcare)
