Medicaid, Stand up for Science, and olive oil

Last updated: March 8, 2025 4:57 am

ANH Team

The move has sparked concern among patient advocates, who fear that without public input, the FDA could make decisions that prioritize industry interests over patient safety. In a letter sent to HHS Secretary Alex Azar on Thursday, a coalition of patient advocacy groups urged the department to reverse the decision and maintain transparency in the agency’s decision-making process.

“The public has a right to know how decisions are made that affect their health and safety,” the letter read. “Without public input, the FDA risks losing the trust of the American people.”

It remains to be seen whether HHS will heed the advocates’ call. But the pressure is mounting as more voices join the chorus demanding transparency and accountability from the FDA. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.

How do you take your coffee?

Are you a black coffee purist, or do you prefer a little cream and sugar in your cup? Your coffee preferences may reveal more about you than just your taste buds. A new study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology suggests that how you take your coffee can be linked to specific personality traits.

According to the study, people who prefer their coffee black tend to exhibit traits such as being straightforward, no-nonsense, and efficient. On the other hand, those who add sugar to their coffee are more likely to be social, friendly, and outgoing. Cream and sugar lovers, meanwhile, are described as nurturing and comforting individuals.

So, the next time you order a coffee, pay attention to how you take it. It might just reveal a little bit about who you are. And remember, there’s no right or wrong way to enjoy your coffee – as long as it brings you joy.

That’s all for today’s Morning Rounds. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter to get your daily dose of health and medicine delivered straight to your inbox. And don’t forget to follow us on social media for the latest updates and news from the world of health and medicine. Until next time, stay healthy and informed!

Patient groups and lawmakers are pushing back against a recent decision by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that could have significant impacts on the healthcare industry. The move in question involves a new policy that could potentially limit access to certain medications and treatments for patients with rare diseases and conditions.

In response to this decision, a coalition of nearly two dozen patient advocacy groups, including well-known organizations like Susan G. Komen, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and the National Organization for Rare Disorders, have come together to publicly request that HHS revoke its decision. These groups argue that the new policy could have detrimental effects on patients who rely on specialized treatments to manage their conditions.

Meanwhile, in the private sector, advisers and attorneys are advising their clients to prepare for a range of possible outcomes under the new policy. The uncertainty surrounding the implementation of the policy has left many healthcare providers and pharmaceutical companies on edge as they try to navigate the potential implications for their businesses and patients.

As the debate over this new policy continues to unfold, it is clear that there are strong opinions on both sides of the issue. While some believe that the policy is necessary to control costs and ensure access to essential medications for all patients, others argue that it could disproportionately harm those with rare diseases and conditions who rely on specialized treatments.

In the midst of this controversy, it is important for all stakeholders to carefully consider the potential impacts of the new policy and work together to find solutions that prioritize patient care and access to necessary treatments. Only through collaboration and open dialogue can we hope to address the challenges facing the healthcare industry and ensure that all patients receive the care they need and deserve.