The Gist Healthcare Podcast Monday, September 29, 2025
Sep 29, 2025
A proposed $100,000 fee for H-1B work visas may exacerbate physician shortages in healthcare. Meanwhile, the CMS pilot introducing AI-driven prior authorizations is facing criticism from Congress. Exciting news comes from Medline, hinting at a potential $50 billion IPO next month. Additionally, UnitedHealthcare has launched a new marketplace for members to purchase wellness and chronic care benefits. Stay tuned for these impactful developments!
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H-1B Fee Could Shrink Physician Pipeline
- Raising the H-1B sponsor fee to $100,000 would sharply increase hiring costs for U.S. employers, including healthcare providers.
- Medical societies warn the fee could choke the pipeline of international physicians who fill underserved-area roles.
Medicare Pilot Expands Prior Authorization
- CMS's WISER pilot will add prior authorization and prepayment review to parts of traditional Medicare in six states for six years.
- CMS plans to use AI to speed reviews, prompting lawmakers and advocates to warn about delays and improper denials.
Hold Pilot Until Independent Review Exists
- Pause the WISER pilot until independent safeguards and review boards evaluate AI decisions.
- Lawmakers urged halting the pilot to prevent reckless AI judgment on medical necessity.