Health Headlines for Monday, April 2
Health insurance costs strain family resources
The Daily Star
While the number of people lacking health insurance in New York is at a historic low, costs have skyrocketed over the past decade to strain both workers and employers who sponsor their insurance.
Health care industry gets boost in capital funding
Crain’s Health Pulse (subscription required)
The state Legislature’s $168 billion budget for fiscal 2019 provides more money for health system transformation than was initially proposed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo.
Expert: Upstate NY hospital data breach could be used to blackmail patients
New York Upstate
A cybersecurity expert is warning that a recent data breach at an Upstate New York hospital could be harmful to patients.
Hospitals Fear Competitive Threat From Potential Walmart-Humana Deal
Wall Street Journal (subscription required)
Early-stage deal talks between Walmart Inc. and Humana Inc. are deepening anxiety in the hospital sector, which already has been grappling with sluggish growth and competition from cheaper health-care options.
California Takes On Health Giant Over High Costs
Kaiser Health News
California’s attorney general sued Sutter Health, accusing the hospital giant of illegally quashing competition and for years overcharging consumers and employers.
Editorial: New successes against smoking
Press Republican
The number of smokers in New York state is at the lowest level in recorded history.
Flu comeback: Different strain could increase cases
WGRZ
The CDC warns the flu may be making a comeback.