CMS updates prior authorization transparency requirements for health plans
As part of efforts to improve prior authorization, CMS has bolstered its transparency requirements for health plans. Based on 2024 regulations that partially took effect in 2026 and are intended to promote electronic prior authorization, new requirements apply to health plans in Medicare Advantage (MA), Medicaid managed care and the Affordable Care Act marketplaces, along with state…
Guilty plea in UnitedHealthcare CEO killing comes amid sustained focus on obstacles to care
Luigi Mangione pleaded guilty Aug. 14 to federal stalking charges in the 2024 fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO, potentially bringing resolution to an incident that spurred introspection by insurers and the healthcare industry. The charges, stemming from the killing of Brian Thompson on Dec. 4, 2024, carry a maximum penalty of life in prison. Prosecutors…
Rural healthcare providers see improving financial outlook, but challenges persist
Rural healthcare organizations, particularly critical access hospitals, are increasingly optimistic about their financial viability, with 96% expressing confidence in their financial stability and 58% reporting that their organization is more stable now than it was five years ago.