News From Around the Web:
> Idaho Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter again decided against expanding the state's Medicaid program, the Associated Press reported. Instead of expanding Medicaid, Otter said he first wants to make changes to the program, including emphasizing prevention and outcomes. Article
> Navigators in Texas are criticizing proposed rules that would require them to obtain additional training, have liability insurance, and pay extra fees for fingerprints, tests and classes, reported the Associated Press. Article
> Humana's former senior vice president and chief strategy and corporate development officer, Paul Kusserow, will receive a severance of $700,000 after he resigned on Jan. 2, reported Business First. Article
Health Provider News:
> Healthcare providers could reduce income-based healthcare disparities by improving physician engagement and strengthening the doctor-patient relationship, according to a new report from the Blue Shield of California Foundation. Article
> The healthcare payment system must evolve and adapt to the changing market, providing reimbursements that best support population health improvement efforts. Article
Health IT News:
> Few orthopedic surgeons know the cost of the devices they implant, according to a new study published in Health Affairs. Article
> Diabetic patients who used a patient portal to refill their prescription cholesterol medication improved their medication adherence and cholesterol levels. Article
And Finally... Superhuman hair pulls cars. Article