The White House issues coronavirus Executive Orders; a recent study takes a look at hospital charges during the pandemic; the rise of the surgical assistant presents another front in the battle against surprise medical bills; and, interoperability has become a priority for payers.

Lawmakers continue to focus on advancing the next coronavirus legislative package; a new report identifies private equity interests as the leading cause of surprise medical bills; how the rebate rule will only increase costs for seniors and taxpayers; and, telehealth utilization explodes among the Medicare population.

A new survey finds the majority of Americans fear rising drug costs due to COVID-19; meanwhile, a separate new poll underscores the important role that PBMs play in helping better manage costs; data points to crucial missed opportunities in regards to Medicaid expansion; and, the continued corporatization of hospitals causes increasing alarm.