News from around the web
> To focus on building regional healthcare networks, Community Health Systems plans to spin off 38 hospitals and a consulting business into a separate company, Reuters reported. Article
> With the goal of helping states and communities track and respond to infectious disease outbreaks, the CDC has allocated nearly $110 million in funding to support several projects. Announcement
> While officials at Southern Regional Health System evaluate a proposed sale, the hospital filed for relief under Chapter 11 Reorganization provisions of the United States Bankruptcy Code so that it can remain open and operating. Announcement
Health Finance News
> The nation's skilled nursing facilities will receive a windfall as a result of Medicare's final 2016 payment rule: A $430 million increase in payments next year. That represents a 1.2 percent overall increase. Article
> Hospitals will receive a modest inpatient prospective payment system bump of 0.9 percent for 2016 under a final rule issued by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Article
And finally… A despicable traffic jam. Article