Drugs Archives - DR News - News, Retirement, Finance

Colorado Bill Mandating Insurer Coverage for Weight Loss Drugs Clears Key Hurdle Despite Cost Concerns

Denver, Colorado – A bill that recently progressed in the Colorado State Capitol could potentially require state-regulated insurers and Medicaid to provide coverage for weight loss drugs for individuals who are either obese or prediabetic. Despite facing opposition from the Division of Insurance and the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing, the bill managed to pass the Senate Appropriations Committee. The bill’s estimated cost implications have raised concerns, with the state’s Medicaid system potentially …

Medicare Expands Coverage for Weight Loss Drugs: What’s the Real Cost?

Last month, the federal Medicare program made a significant announcement regarding the coverage of anti-obesity drugs such as Wegovy and Ozempic for patients at risk of heart attacks or strokes, marking a pivotal moment in the realm of medication. This decision is expected to spark debates about the long-term efficacy of these drugs and whether their high costs justify their benefits. Heart disease stands as the leading cause of death in the United States, claiming …

Medicare Expands Coverage to Include Obesity Drugs – Exclusive Report from The Wall Street Journal

New York, NY – Medicare has made a significant move by expanding its coverage to include obesity drugs for eligible patients. This decision marks a turning point in the healthcare landscape, offering new possibilities for individuals struggling with obesity to access much-needed treatment options. Obesity has long been a pressing public health concern in the United States, with millions of Americans affected by the condition. The inclusion of obesity drugs in Medicare coverage underscores the …

Oregon Lawmakers Approve Bill to Recriminalize Small Amounts of Drugs, Moving Away from Decriminalization Trend

SALEM, OREGON – Lawmakers in Oregon have recently passed a bill that aims to reclassify the possession of certain drugs as a misdemeanor offense. The new measure comes after a prior voter-approved initiative decriminalized the possession and personal use of all drugs in the state. Now, legislators are seeking to reverse course on certain substances like fentanyl. The bill, known as HB4002, has now made its way to the desk of Democratic Governor Tina Kotek …

National Guard May Be Deployed to Address Drugs, Fights, and Safety at Massachusetts High School

Brockton, Massachusetts – Officials from the Brockton School Committee are considering calling in the National Guard to help address issues of drugs, violence, and safety at Brockton High School. The proposal was brought up due to concerns over a “disturbing increase” in incidents related to violence, security, and substance abuse at the high school. Some committee members have suggested using National Guardsmen as substitute teachers and hall monitors, not just at the high school, but …