Experts warn policymakers not to be distracted by Big Pharma’s ‘blame game’; bigger health systems don’t lead to better health care; behavioral health patients account for a disproportionate share of health spending; and, what we’re learning from virtual house calls.

A recent study shows Medicare Part D encouraging the use of generic drugs; Medicaid enrollment going up, but not just because of the newly uninsured; a new alternative payment model is introduced for rural health; and, experts look at what the coronavirus has taught us.

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.