NIH director testifies, doctors share challenges
Good morning, readers. As I just mentioned to STAT’s Executive Editor Rick Berke, I’m always up for trying new pizza flavors. But for now, let’s catch up on some news over a cup of coffee.
‘Scientists that are listening: don’t pay attention to the hype.’
NIH Director Jay Bhattacharya addressed a House Appropriations subcommittee yesterday, assuring them that despite the slow pace of grant awards, the agency will utilize its full budget by the end of the 2026 fiscal year. “We will spend the allocation,” he stated confidently. Bhattacharya emphasized that they are actively identifying excellent projects, with grants already being distributed. For more details on Bhattacharya’s remarks and how lawmakers responded, check out STAT’s Jonathan Wosen’s coverage.
Two doctors on the challenges of medicine today
Emergency medicine physician Jay Baruch sheds light on the concerning practice of parking patients in hospital hallways due to a shortage of rooms. Drawing from personal experiences as a provider and witnessing his mother’s distressing ordeal in a hallway, Baruch expresses shame and frustration at the impact this has on patient care. In a separate essay, former surgeon Frances Mei Hardin reflects on her decision to leave the medical field after a taxing decade of training. She found liberation in stepping away, viewing it as a gateway to a more fulfilling life. Dive deeper into their stories for a poignant glimpse into the struggles within the medical profession.
How did this Texas couple get rich off out-of-network medical bills?
In a twist aimed at enhancing healthcare affordability for patients, a relatively unknown intermediary named HaloMD has devised a strategy that potentially yields higher profits for providers than surprise billing did. The saga traces back to a chance encounter at a Vegas party, leading to the formation of HaloMD by the LaRoque couple, who capitalize on billing disputes through the federal arbitration process. While some defend their actions as profit-driven rather than malicious, lawsuits allege exploitative practices within an overburdened system. Discover the intricate details of this narrative through STAT’s in-depth investigation by Tara Bannow.
Kratom use trends in one hospital system
The rise of kratom, a plant historically used in herbal medicine, has surged in the U.S. for recreational and pain management purposes. A recent study published in JAMA Network Open scrutinized electronic health records from a Boston-based hospital system to track the escalating mentions of kratom. Hospitalizations involving kratom witnessed a significant uptick annually, while emergency department references also surged. As regulatory debates intensify, contrasting views on the substance’s safety and the potential ramifications of criminalization emerge. Explore the evolving landscape of kratom usage and the regulatory conundrum it presents.
9.9%
The latest data reveals that the cigarette smoking rate among U.S. adults plummeted to 9.9% in 2024, marking a historic low. Surpassing the federal government’s reporting timeline, researchers unveiled this milestone through external analysis published in NEJM Evidence. Noteworthy for public health advocates, the figure symbolizes a rare occurrence, fostering optimism for anti-smoking initiatives. Delve into the significance of this achievement and its implications for public health in STAT’s comprehensive coverage by Sarah Todd.
What we’re reading
– U.S. considers withholding HIV aid unless Zambia expands minerals access, New York Times
– The snip shift: March Madness used to drive vasectomies. Now abortion bans do, The 19th
– Drug smoking can lead to severe burns, complicating harm reduction efforts, STAT
– ‘I feel desperate’: Minnesota woman suffering medical emergency stuck in Texas detention, Minnesota Reformer
Test your word prowess with today’s STAT Mini crossword puzzle.
This rewritten article encapsulates the latest updates in the healthcare landscape, ranging from regulatory challenges to personal narratives within the medical realm. Stay informed and engaged with the evolving dynamics of the healthcare sector.
