CDC, following Trump’s orders, weakens US stance on childhood vaccinations
In a drastic decision made outside of its typical review process, the agency declared it would recommend 11 childhood shots going forward, down from 17.
CMS distributes rural health funds for 2026
States received an average of $200 million to expand rural care access. Texas received the most money, while New Jersey received the least.
340B rebate pilot put on hold in temporary win for hospitals
A Maine district court temporarily enjoined the pilot, which was set to take effect on Jan. 1, from kicking in. Still, the controversial payment experiment isn’t dead in the water, as the Trump administration quickly appealed the ruling.
DEA, HHS extend telehealth controlled substance prescribing flexibilities for fourth time
The extension, released shortly before the flexibilities were set to expire at the end of 2025, gives regulators more time to finish permanent policies, the HHS and DEA said.
Why Star Ratings matter and what’s at stake for health plans
How evolving CMS priorities are reshaping Star Ratings health plans are rethinking quality measures. What should change, and what should stay the same?
The AI workflows that will define ambulatory care
AI that works quietly in the background is set to reshape care in 2026.
Time’s up: Enhanced ACA subsidies expire
The expanded tax credits are officially dead after lawmakers failed to secure an extension before the end-of-year deadline. There’s still a chance, though a small one, that they could come back in 2026.