The podcast delves into the unexpected prominence of healthcare in the elections, with Biden and Trump's differing positions on Medicare and the ACA. It also covers the repercussions of a cyberattack on a healthcare company, as well as public health initiatives and environmental efforts in hospitals under Biden's climate legislation.
Frigid office temperatures can impact women's productivity and cognitive performance.
Hospitals are adopting sustainable practices under Biden's climate legislation, reducing their carbon footprint.
Deep dives
Chilly Offices and Women's Productivity
Olga Kazan's article in The Atlantic explores how frigid office temperatures may affect women's productivity and cognitive performance. The study suggests that extreme cold can hinder cognitive abilities, impacting performance on tasks like math SATs.
Hospitals Going Green Under Biden's Climate Legislation
Scientific American's article discusses how hospitals are embracing sustainability efforts under Biden's climate legislation. Tax credits and incentives are now available for hospitals to implement eco-friendly practices, reducing their carbon footprint and contributing to environmental conservation.
Rigid Rules at Methadone Clinics
Stat's article sheds light on the challenges faced by patients seeking treatment for opioid addiction at methadone clinics. The strict protocols and punitive practices at these clinics often hinder patients' recovery paths, showcasing the need for more supportive and less restrictive treatment approaches.
Demotion of Ronnie Jackson
The Washington Post's piece reveals the demotion of former White House physician Ronnie Jackson by the Navy due to inappropriate behavior. Investigations found that Jackson berated subordinates, made derogatory statements, consumed alcohol and sedatives while on duty, leading to his retroactive demotion.
Health care wasn’t expected to be a major theme for this year’s elections. But as President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump secured their respective party nominations this week, the future of both Medicare and the Affordable Care Act appears to be up for debate. Meanwhile, the cyberattack of the UnitedHealth Group subsidiary Change Healthcare continues to do damage to the companies’ finances with no quick end in sight.
Margot Sanger-Katz of The New York Times, Anna Edney of Bloomberg News, and Joanne Kenen of Johns Hopkins University and Politico Magazine join KFF Health News’ Julie Rovner to discuss these issues and more. Also this week, Rovner interviews Kelly Henning of Bloomberg Philanthropies about a new, four-part documentary series on the history of public health, “The Invisible Shield.”
Plus, for “extra credit” the panelists suggest health policy stories they read this week that they think you should read, too.