Complex. Unclear. Overwhelming. This is how Americans describe today's health care system.
A record high of 23% of Americans say the U.S. health care system is "in a state of crisis," with another 47% saying the system has "major problems," according to Gallup.
Consumers want health care to be easier and more transparent, with upfront costs and convenient choices — the same way they shop online.
Built for better health: UnitedHealth Group is tackling this lack of transparency with technology that shows the cost of care and prescription drugs before you're in the doctor's office or at the pharmacy, making it easier to make decisions and navigate the health system.
The head of the pharmaceutical industry's top trade group is stepping down from his role at the end of the year, the trade group confirmed to Axios.
Why it matters: Steve Ubl led PhRMA — one the nation's most powerful lobbyist groups — through a tumultuous decade in whichlowering prescription drug prices wasa top political priority for both parties.
Humira and Botox maker AbbVie is suing the Trump administration to get a clearer definition of who counts as an eligible patient in the government's discount drug program.
Why it matters: While it might seem like an arcane debate, drugmakers say an overly broad definition allows hospitals and other providers to bilk them for more discounted medications than they're due.
Health insurers say they've cut pre-treatment claim reviews by 11% in the past year after committing to streamlining requirements for patients and doctors.
Why it matters: The so-called prior authorizations help control health care spending, but they can discourage patients from getting treatment and add administrative burden for providers.
A leading Democratic think tank has started putting meat on the bones of a midterm health care affordability agenda, calling for policy shifts that its authors say would immediately lower costs.
Why it matters: There's a change in how Democrats are talking about health care, and it could spell big trouble for industry profits should they regain power any time soon.
The 2026 box office is off to its strongest start since the COVID-19 pandemic, raising hopes in Hollywood that theatrical moviegoing has staying power in the streaming era.
Why it matters: Success at the box office gives studios and distributors more leverage to preserve theatrical release windows, a key revenue driver for the industry.
After saying it wanted to keep federal payments to private Medicare plans roughly flat next year, the Trump administration reversed course on Monday and gave the insurers a $13 billion pay bump.
Why it matters: The average 2.48% pay increase for 2027 was on the high end of analysts' expectations and marked a win for UnitedHealthcare, Humana and other Medicare Advantage plans, whose stocks tumbled after the administration's initial proposal in January.
California now requires folic acid in corn tortillas — a staple in many Latino households — in a move that could spread beyond the state.
Why it matters: A quiet change to corn tortillas could reshape grocery shelves nationwide — while helping prevent serious birth defects that disproportionately affect Hispanic babies.
