News from Around the Web
> Fitch Ratings has released a new report that updates the credit metrics for nine publicly traded health insurance and managed care companies. Announcement
> The Protecting Affordable Coverage for Employees Act, which would stop the Affordable Care Act from expanding the definition of the small-group insurance market, would shield small- and mid-sized businesses from market disruption and premium hikes, Sens. Tim Scott (R-SC) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) write in an opinion piece for The Hill. Opinion piece
> Consumers should take note of less obvious, but potentially key changes in health plans they access through their employers during the fall open enrollment period, Kaiser Health News reports. For example, some employers have started to require more of employees who participate in wellness programs. Article
Healthcare News
> Although improving preventive care is a top priority for providers as part of the shift to value-based care, the initiative must incorporate four key strategies in order to be truly effective, according to a blog post at Hospitals & Health Networks. Article
Health Finance News
> Providers are pushing back against a proposal by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to bundle payments for joint replacements. Article
And finally… It was a drive-by fruiting. Article