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Vol. 16, No. 12
December 2007
A New Formula Sought for Doctor Pay
Many of our present physician compensation practices encourage behavior that harms patients and payers. Perhaps several existing methods can be combined to reduce perverse incentives?
The Medicare prescription drug program is almost two years old, and many plans are doing well now, but they will be exposed to more risk and will have to raise premiums, alienating members.
American companies are discovering that even if other countries don’t have, or want, an American-style health care system, they can still use our expertise.
Several new medications are likely to ring the register a significant number of times. The list includes medications for treating high cholesterol, AIDS, neuromuscular blockade, depression, and cancer.
Plans Want More Infection Protection
Health insurers are involved in the campaign to reduce incidences of hospital-acquired complications such as MRSA. Research suggests that these problems can be addressed cost-effectively.
Strange bedfellows.
N.Y. rating scheme gets good reviews.
Smoking cessation programs pay off.
News and Commentary
Strong Support for Transparency, But Small Effect Expected on Costs
Employers offer financial incentives for healthy behavior
Privately Insured Use Emergency Room Less
Web Site Helps Track Health Plan Rankings
Most HSA/HDHPs Cover Preventive Treatment on a First-Dollar Basis
Headlines on Deadline
A look at medical director pay.
Yet more emphasis on generics.
Clotting agent avoids immunogenicity.
Consumers to get more responsibility.
Efforts try to close Part D coverage gap.