These are the most-read health insurance articles published by Becker's in October:
1. HHS renews COVID-19 PHE for 11th time — here's why
On Oct. 13, HHS extended the public health emergency again. The 11th renewal of the PHE since its first declaration in January 2020 allows the country to continue operating under pandemic-era policies until at least the next deadline: Jan. 11, 2023.
2. Apple reportedly launching health insurance in 2024
Apple will reportedly enter the health insurance business in 2024 in partnership with a major payer, according to Forbes on Oct. 18. CCS Insight's chief analyst predicts the tech giant will power the new offering through health data collected by Apple Watch.
3. Oklahoma hospital terminates Medicare Advantage contracts amid financial challenges
Stillwater Medical Center in Oklahoma has ended all in-network contracts with Medicare Advantage plans, the Stillwater News Press reported Oct. 14. Humana and BCBS of Oklahoma were notified that their MA members will no longer receive in-network coverage at the 117-ed hospital after Jan. 1, 2023. The hospital said it made the decision after facing rising operating costs and a high prior authorization burden for MA plans.
4. CMS cracks down on Medicare Advantage TV marketing
CMS is cracking down on deceptive marketing practices and will no longer allow Medicare Advantage or Part D prescription drug plans to advertise on television without agency approval first, effective Jan. 1. The agency said it issued the new policy after reviewing thousands of beneficiary complaints regarding confusing, misleading or inaccurate information from plans.
5. Payers are steering their members to Mark Cuban's pharmacy
Mark Cuban's online pharmacy, Cost Plus Drug Co., is grabbing the attention of insurers, and the company has now nabbed its first payer partner, Capital Blue Cross. The Harrisburg, Pa.-based insurer is the first in the nation to collaborate with the company, saying Oct. 6 that members will be able to use their insurance cards at Cost Plus starting next year.