Republicans Ask GAO To Probe Sebelius' Fundraising

GOP lawmakers seek an investigation of the Health and Human Services secretary's efforts to secure more funding for a private group that will help with the implementation of the health law. At the same time, an HHS spokesman offered more detail regarding whom she contacted.

(Daily Report) May 17

Some Hospitals Under The Microscope For Steep Pricing

The New York Times and Los Angeles Times report on specific hospitals that have been shown to be among the most expensive in the nation. Meanwhile, Modern Healthcare reports on interest from some senators in overhauling Medicare's hospital payment system.

(Daily Report) May 17

Tavenner Becomes Agency's First Confirmed Chief In 7 Years

In a 91-to-7 vote, the Senate approved President Barack Obama's pick to lead the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Marilyn Tavenner, who has been the agency's acting administrator, was endorsed by Rep. Eric Cantor, R-Va.

(Daily Report) May 16

House GOP Lays Groundwork For Fall Budget Face-Off

Among the ideas being bandied about is delaying for at least two years the implementation of the health law's insurance exchanges and Medicaid expansion, according to The Wall Street Journal.

(Daily Report) May 16

Retiree Medical Expenses Fall, But They Still Exceed Most People's Expectations

A study released by Fidelity Investments estimated that a couple, who are enrolled in traditional Medicare and retiring in 2013, will need $220,000 to cover medical costs throughout their retirement.

(Daily Report) May 16

Senate Confirms Tavenner To Head CMS

KHN’s Mary Agnes Carey talks with Jennifer Haberkorn of Politico Pro about the Senate's confirmation Wednesday of Marilyn Tavenner to head the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and the challenges she will face.

(Daily Report) May 16

Political Cartoon: 'Sky Is Falling?' By Rodrigo de Matos

First Edition: May 16, 2013

Today's early morning highlights from the major news organizations, including reports about the Senate confirmation of Acting Chief Marilyn Tavenner to run the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

(Daily Report) May 16

Deficit Projections Likely To Reduce 'Grand Bargain' Pressure

The Congressional Budget Office reports the deficit is shrinking at a faster-than-expected rate this year. Medicare and Medicaid outlays are smaller than anticipated, and health care cost increases appear to have slowed. The numbers are expected to lessen the momentum to cut spending on Medicare and other entitlement programs.

(Daily Report) May 15

89 Arrested In $223 Million Medicare Fraud Schemes

Doctors and nurses were among those charged in the bust that spanned eight cities and focused on bogus Medicare charges.

(Daily Report) May 15