The big picture: A significant challenge to combating mental health issues is resistance to treatment — a hurdle that research suggests psychedelic therapy could help patients clear.
The digital detox movement is gaining popularity, driven by grassroots efforts to limit screen time and a broader push among Gen Zers to switch off their phones.
The big picture: Phone-free bars, restaurants and entertainment experiences are on the rise while cellphone pouches are becoming an essential item at schools, weddings, proms and retreats, and search interest in apps that keep you off your phone skyrocketed.
Major health insurers including UnitedHealthcare, Humana and CVS Health/Aetna will adopt a single standard for health providers to request pre-treatment reviews starting next year, the insurers tell Axios.
Why it matters: Health plans often deny or delay coverage because of incomplete documentation.
A standardized approach could reduce the back-and-forth between plans and providers — and improve the odds of delivering timely care.
You can learn a lot about the indomitable nature of the human spirit by training for and tackling a marathon.
Why it matters: It's a tremendous physical feat. But standing at the finish line — watching thousands of people arrive after 26.2 miles of pain, doubt and persistence — may be even more gratifying.
I witnessed it this week at the atmospheric end of the Boston Marathon.
President Trump on Thursday announced a drug pricing deal with Regeneron — the last of 17 manufacturers the administration pressured last year to commit to his "most favored nation" policy.
Why it matters: The deals with the other companies to lower certain drug prices are being touted as one of the administration's signature health accomplishments, though Democrats question whether the confidential arrangements are really helping consumers.
President Trump's acting attorney general ordered the immediate reclassification of FDA-approved and state-licensed marijuana as a less dangerous drug Thursday.
Why it matters: The move will make it easier to study medicinal applications of marijuana and could shore up support from influencers who support the research.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s new push to loosen federal restrictions on peptides could be a bonanza for telehealth companies, compounding pharmacies and longevity clinics looking for the next big wellness trend.
Why it matters: The heavily touted but loosely regulated proteins could fuel the kind of boom we've seen with weight-loss drugs — even though there's little evidence they work in humans.
