The Gist Healthcare Podcast

Millions of Americans relying on food assistance could lose benefits as the government shutdown continues. A new study explores how proposed H-1B visa changes may affect staffing in rural hospitals. Plus, a court ruling dismisses a case from nurse practitioners challenging the definition of “doctor.” All that and more on today’s episode of The Gist Healthcare Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Texas files suit against the maker of Tylenol, alleging hidden autism risks. Furloughed CMS employees are called back to manage Medicare and ACA enrollment. And Cigna takes a new approach to drug pricing by moving away from rebates. Hear these stories and more on The Gist Healthcare Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Gist Healthcare Podcast, the nation’s second-largest measles outbreak continues to expand along the Arizona–Utah border. Family job-based health insurance premiums hit an average of $27,000 in 2025, while UnitedHealth Group launches an AI tool designed to accelerate medical claims processing. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Moderate House Republicans are urging Speaker Mike Johnson to take up the issue of expiring Affordable Care Act tax credits once the shutdown ends. A new poll shows declining trust in President Trump and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., while DocGo moves to acquire SteadyMD. Those stories and more on The Gist Healthcare Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today’s episode of The Gist Healthcare Podcast, we look at three headlines shaping healthcare this week: rising 2026 ACA exchange prices, California’s plan to sell its own insulin, and Prospect Medical Holdings’ move to sell more hospitals. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lizzy Lawrence, a reporter for STAT News focusing on the FDA, sheds light on the long-standing exclusion of pregnant women from clinical drug trials. She discusses how the thalidomide crisis shaped current research practices, leading to significant knowledge gaps. Lawrence addresses the overreaction to past risks, highlighting the need for better data on commonly used medications like Tylenol. She also explores recent federal recommendations aimed at reintegrating pregnant individuals into trials and the ethical implications of this necessary change.

A multibillion-dollar acquisition in the healthcare industry is on the horizon as Qualtrics plans to buy Press Ganey Forsta. Meanwhile, public trust in the CDC is at a record low, raising concerns about agency effectiveness. A shocking report reveals that Medicare has spent nearly $2 billion on unnecessary back surgeries over three years, highlighting regional disparities in surgical practices. Plus, an intriguing preview on the implications of excluding pregnant women from clinical drug trials adds to the conversation.

In an intriguing discussion, the potential impact of a government shutdown on healthcare funding is explored, with contrasting views from political leaders. President Trump hints at possible negotiations on ACA subsidies, while experts warn of skyrocketing premiums if enhancements expire. The acquisition of Summa Health by General Catalyst's HATCo raises questions about the shift to for-profit care and necessary community commitments. Additionally, the CDC updates vaccine recommendations, emphasizing individual decision-making for COVID shots and new guidelines for childhood vaccinations.

Unpack the tense political drama around extending Affordable Care Act tax credits as lawmakers scramble to avert a shutdown. Discover how a new agreement between the Trump administration and Pfizer aims to cut drug prices for Americans. Dive into the competitive landscape of AI in healthcare, where lawsuits are flying over alleged code theft and market strategies. A mix of policy, pricing, and tech rivalry makes for a riveting discussion!

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!