News From Around the Web
> New data published in the Journal of the American Medical Association reveals the recent trends in employer-sponsored health insurance premiums. The study shows that between 1999 and 2015, premiums increased by 203 percent, outpacing both inflation and workers' earnings. Data
> Illinois-based Community Healthcare System terminated its contract with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield on Dec. 31, and an estimated 30 percent of patients at CHS hospitals have Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance will be considered "out-of-network," according to the Chicago Star Tribune. Article
> Despite speculation that the Affordable Care Act's coverage provisions and employer mandate have led to an increase in part-time employment, a new study from Health Affairs reveals little change in part-time employment as a result of the law. Study
AntiFraud News
> An Ohio cardiologist sentenced last week to 20 years in prison for convincing patients to undergo unnecessary tests and procedures says the government used the Affordable Care Act to target him. Article
Healthcare News
> President Barack Obama's gun control initiative will lead to a modification of the HIPAA Privacy Rule to allow certain covered entities to disclose to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System the identities of those individuals who, for specific mental health reasons, already are prohibited by federal law from having a firearm. Article
And finally… 25 things that are celebrating a 25th birthday this year. Article