Julie Rovner, the chief Washington correspondent and host of KFF Health News‘ weekly health policy news podcast, „What the Health?“ brings a wealth of expertise to the table. Known for her critically praised reference book „Health Care Politics and Policy A to Z,“ now in its third edition, Rovner is a noted expert on health policy issues. In this week’s episode, she is joined by a panel of distinguished experts including Joanne Kenen of Politico and Johns Hopkins University, Shefali Luthra of The 19th, and Alice Miranda Ollstein of Politico.
The discussion kicks off by highlighting the role of reproductive health in the upcoming general-election campaign between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. While reproductive rights have taken center stage, it remains unclear how other health issues will factor into the race. Medicare’s recent announcement of negotiated prices for the first 10 drugs selected under the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act has also brought attention to the pressing issue of drug pricing, a concern shared by both Republicans and Democrats.
The panelists delve into various key takeaways, including the emphasis on reproductive rights in Harris‘ campaign and concerns about potential barriers to care. Harris‘ stance on anticompetitive behavior by insurers and hospitals and drug pricing is also explored. The possibility of former President Trump appointing Robert Kennedy Jr. as his health secretary raises eyebrows, with many Republicans considering it a contentious move. Additionally, abortion access will be on the ballot in Arizona and Montana this fall, while the federal government announces the first drug prices secured under Medicare’s new drug-negotiation program.
Further discussions revolve around a recent „Bill of the Month“ installment reported by KFF Health News‘ Tony Leys, shedding light on a woman charged for two surgeries despite undergoing only one. The episode also offers insightful recommendations for health policy stories to read, curated by each panelist.
In conclusion, the article directs readers to access all podcasts and subscribe to KFF Health News‘ „What the Health?“ on various platforms. KFF Health News is recognized as a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism on health issues, operating as an independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism. Organizations are encouraged to republish the content for free, with proper attribution and linkage to the original source.
Overall, the episode engages listeners with a comprehensive discussion on the current health policy landscape, offering valuable insights and recommendations for further reading. Julie Rovner and the panelists bring their expertise to the forefront, providing a nuanced and informative analysis of the pressing health issues of our time.
