Another week, another health news roundup. Here’s the latest in healthcare news:
- Trump spoke from the White House yesterday after meeting with “victims of Obamacare.” He said that the bill has “wreaked havoc” on innocent, hardworking Americans for the past 17 years. Trump said that the Senate has a chance to fix what has been “so badly broken for a long time” and said it is close to getting the votes it needs to pass the bill, but has “zero help from the Democrats.” He promised the bill will lower American premiums and give them more options. This comes after his Monday urging to Republicans to approve the Senate's healthcare bill, saying a showdown vote planned for this week is their "last chance to do the right thing" and replace Obamacare.
- Speaking of the Senate’s healthcare bill, the future of the Republican bill is still uncertain after two revisions of the initial bill have failed to bring about a consensus. The Medicaid provision in particular has been a sticking point for many, including this New York congressman.
- Amazon recently bought Whole Foods, but Jeff Bezos’ company is rumored to also be on the hunt for a manager to lead a new pharmacy unit. The online mega-player has already been selling medical supplies for some time. (Who needs a house call when you have a personal delivery service?)
- Three of North Carolina’s largest health care systems – Duke Health, Novant Health and Carolinas HealthCare System – have signed agreements to connect to NC HealthConnex, the state’s designated Health Information Exchange. (NC HealthConnex is a standardized electronic system where providers can share patient health information.)
- Did you know that many North Carolinians still get their drinking water from wells? In fact, 3.3. million people (one third of the state’s population) are believed to get their water the old-school way. Many of these are unmonitored, private wells and a push for better EPA testing and treatment is underway. (Erin Brockovich would be proud.)
We’re dedicated to keeping you informed, so be prepared for another health news lowdown next week.
There’s a lot going on in the healthcare world right now — and lot of it is murky. One thing we’re clear about? Rolling back state-based mandates that drive up the cost of healthcare for everyone. Want to help us in our fight to roll them back? Join us.
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