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Laboratories: Paper CLIA Fee Coupons & Certificates Ending March 1

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CMS is transitioning the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) program to fully electronic fee coupons and CLIA certificates. Beginning March 1, 2026, CMS will no longer mail paper fee coupons or paper CLIA certificates. All CLIA certification and survey fees must be paid online—paper checks will no longer be accepted. This is the final opportunity for eligible laboratories and providers that perform laboratory testing to enroll in CMS email notifications to receive electronic CLIA fee…
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Telehealth Linked to Increased Preventive Care Use in Rural Communities

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New research published in the American Journal of Managed Care found that rural residents who used telehealth were more likely to receive preventive care services compared to those who did not. The study highlights telehealth’s potential to reduce long-standing access barriers—such as travel distance and transportation challenges—that often limit preventive care in rural areas. Using administrative claims data from more than 2 million rural adults with commercial or Medicare Advantage coverage, researchers found that telehealth…
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FDA Clears First At-Home RSV, Flu & COVID Test for Infants as Young as 6 Months

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The FDA has cleared the first over-the-counter at-home test that can detect RSV, influenza A, influenza B, and COVID-19 using a single nasal swab—and it’s approved for use in children as young as 6 months. The Flowflex Plus 4-in-1 test from ACON Laboratories allows families to identify common respiratory infections quickly, without the need for a clinic visit. This clearance is especially significant as RSV remains a leading cause of hospitalization in young children. Until…
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CDC: Diabetes Affects Over 40 Million Americans, Many Undiagnosed

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New CDC data show that diabetes continues to impact millions of Americans. Key findings from the updated National Diabetes Statistics Report include: The report highlights the importance of prevention, early detection, and management to reduce the health impact of diabetes nationwide. Readers can review the full CDC report for detailed statistics and guidance on diabetes care and prevention. Resource: National Diabetes Statistics ReportDoIHavePrediabetes.orgNational Diabetes Prevention ProgramDiabetes education (DSMES)

American Red Cross Declares Severe Blood Shortage

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The American Red Cross has declared a severe emergency blood shortage, calling on the public to donate. Hospital demand has outpaced supply, with nearly one-third of the organization’s blood stores depleted nationwide. As the largest supplier of blood products in the U.S., the Red Cross emphasizes that donations are urgently needed to support patients and maintain hospital care. Follow this link for resources for donation sites and guidance on giving safely.

CDC Issues Alert as New World Screwworm Outbreak Reaches Northern Mexico

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The CDC has issued a Health Alert Network (HAN) advisory following confirmed New World screwworm (NWS) cases in Tamaulipas, Mexico, a state bordering Texas. While no human or animal cases linked to this outbreak have been identified in the United States as of January 20, 2026, officials warn of potential geographic spread. The advisory is intended to increase awareness among clinicians, public health agencies, and the public, and outlines CDC guidance on case recognition, reporting,…
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Long-Term GLP-1 Use May Slow Medical Cost Growth

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Sustained use of GLP-1 medications is associated with slower medical cost growth over time, according to new findings from Aon. The analysis examined claims data from more than 190,000 GLP-1 users between 2022 and 2025 and found that consistent use—particularly with high adherence—was linked to lower medical cost growth compared to non-users. The research suggests cost trends improve the longer patients remain on therapy, with the strongest impact seen among individuals using GLP-1s for diabetes…
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Where the PA Title Change Effort Stands

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The American Academy of Physician Associates continues its push to transition the profession away from the term “physician assistant” and toward “physician associate,” a change it says better reflects PAs’ roles in modern healthcare. While the organization formally adopted the new title in 2021, it acknowledges that full implementation at the state and federal levels will take years. Progress remains uneven. State PA chapters must pursue rebranding and statutory changes individually, and so far only…
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U.S. at Risk of Losing Measles Elimination Status

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The U.S. is at risk of losing its measles elimination status as cases continue to rise nationwide. As of January 6, the CDC has confirmed 2,147 measles cases across 2025 and 2026, with new cases reported in North Carolina and South Carolina, and dozens of outbreaks ongoing across the country. Most cases are occurring among unvaccinated individuals, and public confidence in the safety and effectiveness of the MMR vaccine has declined in recent years. While…
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U.S. Flu Activity Remains Elevated Despite Recent Declines

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The CDC’s latest FluView report shows a modest decline in flu activity, with the national influenza positivity rate dropping to 18.6% for the week ending January 10. However, the overall impact of the season remains significant, as flu-related deaths continued to rise and hospitals across the country reported sustained strain on capacity. Some health systems have even postponed elective procedures as emergency departments and inpatient units remain full. Key takeaways from the CDC’s most recent…
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UnitedHealthcare Updates Radiology Reimbursement Policy

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Effective April 1, 2026, UnitedHealthcare will update its reimbursement policy for radiology services billed on the same day as evaluation and management (E/M) services. When the same provider bills both an E/M service and a global radiology code for the same patient, a full written interpretation and report will be required to separately reimburse the professional component of the radiology service. Reports must follow American College of Radiology guidelines. If different providers bill the E/M…
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