The Gist Healthcare Podcast Wednesday, September 3, 2025
Sep 3, 2025
Senator Bill Cassidy is pushing for a delay in an upcoming CDC advisory meeting due to leadership changes and process concerns. Meanwhile, Medicare's accountable care organizations have reported impressive savings, generating over $2 billion last year. In exciting news, Cigna’s Evernorth is making waves with a $3.5 billion investment in Shields Health Solutions, following its spinoff from Walgreens. Additionally, a new study shows that the No Surprises Act is effectively reducing out-of-pocket costs for patients.
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CDC Leadership Turmoil Risks Policy Legitimacy
- The CDC is experiencing major leadership turmoil that could undermine confidence in vaccine policy decisions.
- Senator Bill Cassidy urged postponing ACIP until oversight addresses allegations and membership changes.
ACIP Decisions Directly Affect Insurance Coverage
- ACIP recommendations determine which vaccines insurers must cover without cost sharing under the ACA.
- Changes at CDC and HHS could therefore quickly alter vaccine access and coverage rules for children and others.
Timeline Of Recent CDC Upheavals
- The episode recounts recent upheavals at the CDC including firings, resignations, and a shooting at headquarters.
- It also notes HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s policy shifts and his replacement of ACIP members with skeptics.