The Gist Healthcare Podcast Friday, September 5, 2025
Sep 5, 2025
States are crafting their own vaccine guidelines to cut through federal confusion, with a West Coast alliance leading the charge. Telehealth company Remedy Meds is making waves by acquiring rival Thirty Madison. A new study reveals that the No Surprises Act is lowering out-of-pocket costs for consumers by over $500 annually. Meanwhile, leadership shifts at the CDC and various medical societies are reshaping vaccine recommendations and insurance coverage policies. Florida's move to eliminate vaccine mandates adds another intriguing twist to the healthcare narrative.
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States Form Regional Vaccine Guidance
- Several Western states formed the West Coast Health Alliance to write their own vaccine guidance amid federal turmoil.
- States will use national medical organizations' recommendations rather than rely solely on the CDC.
CDC Turmoil Spurs Coverage Uncertainty
- Federal CDC leadership upheaval and policy shifts have driven states and medical societies to issue their own vaccine recommendations.
- That shift creates coverage uncertainty because insurers currently must follow ACIP recommendations under the ACA.
Use State Boards To Preserve Vaccine Access
- States can ensure vaccine access by modifying pharmacy rules and coverage requirements to sidestep federal limits.
- Colorado and Pennsylvania used emergency board actions to let pharmacists administer COVID vaccines and require insurer coverage.