What the Health? From KFF Health News The Government Is Open
Nov 13, 2025
In this discussion, Anna Edney from Bloomberg News shares insights on the implications of the recent government shutdown and the exclusion of ACA tax credits. Shefali Luthra of The 19th highlights the controversial use of Medicaid in shaping immigration and gender policies. Sandhya Raman reports from Capitol Hill on legislative happenings, while Julie Appleby offers a gripping 'Bill of the Month' case about a patient's shocking hospital bill and the challenges of navigating insurance. The panel also recommends compelling health policy reads.
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Short-Term Funding Leaves ACA Credits At Risk
- The shutdown deal funds the government only through January and excludes ACA enhanced tax credits.
- Those expanded subsidies still face a December 31 deadline and need separate bipartisan action to continue.
Bipartisan Hurdles Around Extending ACA Subsidies
- Senators may get a mid-December vote on a health bill to extend enhanced ACA subsidies but it must be bipartisan to pass.
- Republicans favor alternatives like flexible savings accounts or reforms instead of simply extending subsidies.
Medicaid Used To Advance Broader Policy Goals
- The Trump administration has directed Medicaid agencies to re-verify some enrollees' immigration status and may block federal funding for transgender care.
- These moves use Medicaid to advance immigration and social policy goals, risking chilling effects on care access.