Dominant health systems can command sharply higher commercial prices, costs that ultimately flow through to premiums paid by employers and workers.

Employers often compare administrators by their base fees, but a study finds additional charges can be embedded throughout their contracts and claims.

The en banc court ruled that insurers cannot use "ghost rates" or categorically exclude applicable incentive payments when calculating qualifying payment amounts.

Urban Institute researchers say coverage losses, Medicaid funding constraints and workforce pressures could compound hospitals' financial challenges.

The court left open the possibility that insurance restrictions may create a distinct cash-pay market for weight-loss drugs.

The defense argues that restrictions on press and public access could violate Mangione's constitutional right to a public trial.

Lawmakers accused Republicans of preparing benefit cuts, while Speaker Mike Johnson has characterized the undisclosed proposal as an effort to "adjust and fix" mandatory programs.

The 4-3 decision narrows a longstanding exemption that had shielded regulated businesses from claims under the state's consumer protection law.