Medicare in January will begin AI-powered pre-treatment reviews for select health services in a major policy change that's aimed at rooting out unnecessary care — but alarming providers.
Why it matters: While the change covers only 17 treatments or procedures in a handful of states, it marks a major shift for a program that's historically required very little prior authorization.
Instead of resolving to overhaul your life on Jan. 1, author and happiness expert Gretchen Rubin recommends another approach: Choosing a theme word to guide your year.
Why it matters: Even if you're not into setting resolutions — probably because they don't often stick — "there's something auspicious about a new year," Rubin tells Axios.
President Trump warned Monday Colombia's President Gustavo Petro needs to "watch his ass" over the cocaine he said the country is sending to the U.S.
The big picture: Trump and Petro have been feuding for months as the administration escalates its pressure campaign against Colombia, including Trump threatening military action against the country and imposing sanctions on the president and his family members.
The Food and Drug Administration on Monday approved a daily pill version of Novo Nordisk's blockbuster weight-loss drug Wegovy that the company said will be available early in the new year.
Why it matters: It's the first oral GLP-1 drug approved for weight loss and could provide a more convenient and cheaper alternative to the injectable version.
Some leading vaccine manufacturers could be exposed to litigation they've been protected from for decades if the U.S. decides to adopt a new childhood vaccine schedule resembling Denmark's, as it appears likely to do in the new year.
Why it matters: The threat of expensive lawsuits could ultimately drive vaccine makers from the U.S. market, upending access to shots like those protecting against the seasonal flu, hepatitis and meningitis.
