An article by Kaiser Health News explained that Medicare Part D drug plans can change individual drug prices and/or cost sharing soon after open enrollment closes. For instance, a recent analysis by AARP found that about a month after Medicare drug plans went into effect, prices had risen by 8% on 75 of the most frequently used drugs. Seniors who select a plan specifically for its price on a given drug are likely disappointed when prices rise, or copays increase. Yet, once in a plan seniors cannot switch to another plan until the next open enrollment period at the end of the year.
Category: Cost of Healthcare
Obamacare (and Hospitals) Increased Medical Debt
Medical debt is the most common third-party debt collections listed in credit reports, at 58% of debt in collections. There are no reliable estimates of the number of patients sued or exposed to debt collection harassment, but it could number into the hundreds of thousands each year.
Monday Links
With the prevalence of home testing and milder effects, how can we know where Covid is and what it is doing? Answer: test the wastewater.
Out-of-pocket spending on medical care in Britain and America is now roughly the same. One in 14 of Britain’s poorest households now incurs “catastrophic healthcare costs.”
Libertarian views on student debt.
Are hospitals going to the dogs?
Parks, a 2-year-old Labrador retriever with a golden coat and floppy ears — boasts an impressive catalogue of more than 40 commands…. including pushing objects, turning light switches on and off with his snout, pulling ropes to hold drawers and doors open, retrieving items, and assisting with laundry by tugging the hamper to the washing machine.
Get Your Medical Care at the Mall while Shopping
Many malls are struggling financially because Amazon and other online retailers have taken away business from brick & mortar stores. The pace accelerated with Covid as non-essential retail locations faced a lockdown. However, some struggling malls are finding a new life as medical facilities.