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Alabama Among States Facing Growth in New Cancer Cases: 2026 Projections

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Approximately 2.1 million new cancer cases are expected to be diagnosed nationwide in 2026, according to the American Cancer Society. Using 2022 state-level incidence data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and 2026 projections from ACS, several states are expected to see significant increases in new diagnoses. Here’s a snapshot for Alabama: While some states are projected to see percentage increases of 20% or more, larger states such as Florida and Texas are…
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The 43 medications on TrumpRx: What to Know

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TrumpRx.gov currently lists 43 brand-name medications available through manufacturer-run cash discount programs aimed primarily at uninsured patients or those without drug coverage. Here’s a quick breakdown: Providers and patients should review the full medication list and pricing details (linked below) to determine whether TrumpRx offers meaningful savings for specific therapies. Resource: The 43 medications on TrumpRx

Another Win for GLP-1s and Cancer Risk: 5 Key Study Notes

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A study published February 10 in JAMA Network Open found that women with endometrial hyperplasia or benign uterine pathology who were treated with GLP-1 therapy plus progestins had a 66% lower risk of developing endometrial cancer compared to those treated with progestins alone. Researchers analyzed TriNetX data spanning 2005–2022 to evaluate cancer and hysterectomy outcomes across multiple treatment pathways. Here are five important takeaways: Providers should review the full study (linked below) to better understand…
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Drug Shortages Update: 12 Recent Discontinuations to Review

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The FDA reports a notable decline in active drug shortages — from 194 in June to 80 as of February 12 — largely due to database updates, manufacturing recoveries, and reclassification of shortages. However, several recent discontinuities may still impact prescribing and inventory management. Below are 12 drugs recently listed in shortage or discontinued status: Because FDA shortage status can change frequently, providers are encouraged to review the official database and manufacturer communications (linked below)…
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Key CMS & Medicare Updates Providers Should Know

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Several recent CMS and Medicare updates may impact laboratory operations, billing compliance, and coverage requirements. Below is a high-level overview of what’s changing and where providers should pay close attention. CLIA Program: Paper Fee Coupons & Certificates Ending March 1 Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is transitioning the CLIA program to fully electronic communications. After March 1, 2026, paper CLIA fee coupons and certificates will no longer be mailed, and payments must be made…
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Alabama Anesthesiologist Appointed to Leadership Role at UAB

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Anesthesiologists’ continuous involvement throughout the perioperative process gives them a uniquely broad perspective on operating room efficiency and patient care — positioning many to step into leadership roles across health systems and ambulatory surgery centers. Among recent national leadership appointments reported by Becker’s, Matthew Sherrer, MD, an associate professor in the Department of Anesthesiology at UAB Health System, has been named assistant dean for faculty affairs. Dr. Sherrer’s appointment highlights Alabama’s continued representation in academic…
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Study Finds Many Patients Prefer Remote Consults for Ongoing Care

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A recent study published in JAMA Network Open, and reported by The American Journal of Managed Care, found that more than half of patients with long-term conditions prefer remote consultations over in-person visits in certain scenarios. Overall, 37% of surveyed patients preferred remote care across multiple clinical situations, with synchronous methods (such as video or phone visits) favored over asynchronous messaging. Preference for remote care was highest when discussing test results (43%) and renewing medications…
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CVS Pharmacies Begin Accepting TrumpRx Discount Cards

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CVS Health’s nearly 9,000 community pharmacies are now accepting TrumpRx discount cards as of Feb. 6, expanding access to savings on select medications for eligible patients. The discounts are determined by participating drug manufacturers, and patients can present a printed card at the pharmacy counter to receive applicable price reductions. In addition, CVS Specialty Pharmacy is participating in the TrumpRx Fertility program, offering reduced pricing on certain fertility medications. As discount programs and alternative pricing…
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Medicare Part D to Cover Weight-Loss Treatments Beginning in 2027

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Starting in 2027, participating Medicare Part D plans may begin covering weight-loss medications under CMS’ voluntary BALANCE (Better Approaches to Lifestyle and Nutrition for Comprehensive hEalth) model. The announcement follows federal negotiations aimed at securing more favorable pricing for obesity and diabetes treatments. Recent data analysis from KFF, based on CMS data from 2019–2024, shows a dramatic rise in GLP-1 medication use and spending among Medicare beneficiaries. Use of Ozempic grew from fewer than 150,000…
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FTC Reaches Settlement with Express Scripts Over Insulin Pricing

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The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has reached a settlement with Express Scripts, Cigna’s pharmacy benefit manager (PBM), in a case centered on alleged insulin price inflation. The agreement is expected to reduce out-of-pocket drug costs — including insulin — by an estimated $7 billion over the next decade. Under the settlement, Express Scripts must delink manufacturer compensation from drug list prices, avoid favoring higher-priced drugs over lower-cost alternatives, and ensure patient cost-sharing is based on…
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Key CMS Billing and Payment Updates for 2026

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CMS released several updated MLN Matters® articles outlining important billing, payment, and coverage changes taking effect in 2026. These updates impact ESRD facilities, ambulatory surgical centers, rural health clinics, and preventive services. Acute Kidney Injury & ESRD Billing UpdatesBeginning July 1, 2026, ESRD facilities will no longer be required to submit the AX modifier on certain ESRD PPS claims eligible for add-on payment adjustments. CMS also issued new billing instructions for hemodiafiltration and acute kidney…
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Federal Budget Deal Delivers Key Healthcare Wins—With Major Telehealth Extension

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The latest federal budget agreement includes several healthcare provisions supported by the American Medical Association, delivering meaningful updates for physicians and patients. Among the most impactful outcomes is a renewed commitment to telehealth access, along with additional reforms focused on care delivery, physician support, and cost transparency. 1. Medicare telehealth coverage extended for two yearsMedicare telehealth flexibilities have been renewed through 2027, restoring continuity of care after a 43-day lapse tied to the 2025 government…
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