Policy & Regulations

This channel includes news coverage of healthcare policy and regulations set by Congress, the states, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and medical associations and societies.

Radiologists urge HHS secretary to overhaul US Preventive Services Task Force
Over 45 physicians, scientists and public health leaders believe a “fundamental shift” is needed to address how USPSTF develops and implements recommendations.
DOJ: Fraud settlements hit record $6.8B in 2025, with healthcare a primary focus
Of the $6.8 billion in judgments and settlements the U.S. Department of Justice reclaimed under the False Claims Act, $5.7 billion came from healthcare cases. The agency said fraud involving Medicare reimbursements, unnecessary patient care and managed care scams remains a key focus.
CMS announces 15 drugs targeted for third round of Medicare price negotiations
The third round of the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program includes treatments for HIV and diabetes, among other conditions. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services also released a list of the top 50 medications it deems strong candidates for future negotiations based on current prices and patient utilization.
The fight for improved cardiologist certification is still alive
The American Board of Cardiovascular Medicine is still pushing forward with its efforts to change how cardiologists are certified in the United States. While the group can reapply in the future for a standalone cardiology board, it is also looking at possible partnerships with other organizations.
Faster treatments, better outcomes: 5 key takeaways from new stroke guideline
The American Stroke Association's first major update in 7 years highlights the importance of coordinated care and expands patient access to critical treatments. It also includes the first detailed recommendations for treating stroke in pediatric patients.

AI could reduce reliance on gadolinium for contrast-enhanced MRI

New artificial intelligence technology could be used as a complimentary tool alongside low-dose GBCAs to enhance exams without sacrificing image quality.

Hospital system sues UnitedHealth over ‘denied, delayed’ Medicare Advantage reimbursement

Tennessee-based Ballad Health said it's tried for years to resolve the issues with the insurer but now has 'no choice' but to take legal action, as denied claims are leading to longer hospital stays and higher expenses.

ASE leading push to revise CPT code for interventional echocardiography

The pressure is on for ASE and other societies to create a new CPT code for the use of interventional echocardiography during structural heart procedures.

Johnson & Johnson MedTech Automated Impella Controller

FDA confirms Class I recall for Johnson & Johnson devices due to durability concerns

The issue, first reported in September, was linked to five patient injuries. Devices not being actively used should be returned to Johnson & Johnson MedTech for updates.

FDA announces recall of ultrasound systems impacted by software glitch

The inaccurate measurements could lead to misdiagnoses or improper treatment, a regulatory notice suggests.

Novartis seeks to expand use of prostate therapy Pluvicto, citing positive trial results

An expanded approval could potentially double the number of patients eligible for treatment with the therapy, first approved in 2022.

FDA approves oral semaglutide for reducing cardiovascular risks in adults with type 2 diabetes

Rybelsus from Novo Nordisk is officially the first oral GLP-1 drug approved for this indication. The FDA's decision was based on the SOUL trial, which included data from more than 9,000 patients with type 2 diabetes.

Judge blocks Trump's shutdown layoffs—1,200 HHS workers spared for now

U.S. District Court Judge Susan Illston said the firings appear to be politically motivated and may exceed the authority of the executive branch. She sided against the Trump administration, issuing a temporary restraining order to stop 4,200 federal employees from being fired.

Policy & Regulations

Radiologists urge HHS secretary to overhaul US Preventive Services Task Force

DOJ: Fraud settlements hit record $6.8B in 2025, with healthcare a primary focus

CMS announces 15 drugs targeted for third round of Medicare price negotiations

The fight for improved cardiologist certification is still alive

Faster treatments, better outcomes: 5 key takeaways from new stroke guideline