Lawson Mansell
@lawsonmansell.bsky.social
Healthcare Policy for Niskanen Center
Formerly: Milken Institute, South Carolina think tanker, SC-01 staffer
Now 📍Washington, DC
lmansell@niskanencenter.org
Formerly: Milken Institute, South Carolina think tanker, SC-01 staffer
Now 📍Washington, DC
lmansell@niskanencenter.org
So how much would it cost to fully insulate parents from high childbirth out-of-pocket costs?
Based only on the avg OOP costs, the premium increase would be between 0.06 and 0.8%. Any rise in premiums would likely be smaller than the typical annual inflation in premiums (6-7%).
Based only on the avg OOP costs, the premium increase would be between 0.06 and 0.8%. Any rise in premiums would likely be smaller than the typical annual inflation in premiums (6-7%).
May 21, 2025 at 6:26 PM
So how much would it cost to fully insulate parents from high childbirth out-of-pocket costs?
Based only on the avg OOP costs, the premium increase would be between 0.06 and 0.8%. Any rise in premiums would likely be smaller than the typical annual inflation in premiums (6-7%).
Based only on the avg OOP costs, the premium increase would be between 0.06 and 0.8%. Any rise in premiums would likely be smaller than the typical annual inflation in premiums (6-7%).
Medicaid already covers the full cost of childbirth for those enrolled, but parents on commercial insurance can expect to spend around $3K. For those on HDHPs or those who hit their deductible/OOP max in both years during pregnancy, out-of-pocket expenses could reach $5-10K.
May 21, 2025 at 6:26 PM
Medicaid already covers the full cost of childbirth for those enrolled, but parents on commercial insurance can expect to spend around $3K. For those on HDHPs or those who hit their deductible/OOP max in both years during pregnancy, out-of-pocket expenses could reach $5-10K.
How does it work? The Supporting Healthy Moms and Babies Act would designate prenatal, birth, and postpartum care as essential health benefits (EHBs) and eliminates cost-sharing from these services.
May 21, 2025 at 6:26 PM
How does it work? The Supporting Healthy Moms and Babies Act would designate prenatal, birth, and postpartum care as essential health benefits (EHBs) and eliminates cost-sharing from these services.
NEW: A bipartisan group of senators just released a bill to make childbirth effectively free for those on commercial insurance.
I modeled the impact on premiums, finding a likely modest increase - a worthwhile tradeoff to insulate parents from high and unpredictable costs. (🧵)
I modeled the impact on premiums, finding a likely modest increase - a worthwhile tradeoff to insulate parents from high and unpredictable costs. (🧵)
May 21, 2025 at 6:26 PM
NEW: A bipartisan group of senators just released a bill to make childbirth effectively free for those on commercial insurance.
I modeled the impact on premiums, finding a likely modest increase - a worthwhile tradeoff to insulate parents from high and unpredictable costs. (🧵)
I modeled the impact on premiums, finding a likely modest increase - a worthwhile tradeoff to insulate parents from high and unpredictable costs. (🧵)
You're invited! Join Monica Popp, Maya MacGuineas, Brian Miller, and I at the Capitol Visitor Center on May 15th at 2pm to discuss healthcare win-wins.
We'll be diving into the federal budget and where we can find healthcare savings that also benefit patients.
RSVP here! t.co/S9u96x7jHQ
We'll be diving into the federal budget and where we can find healthcare savings that also benefit patients.
RSVP here! t.co/S9u96x7jHQ
May 8, 2025 at 3:30 PM
You're invited! Join Monica Popp, Maya MacGuineas, Brian Miller, and I at the Capitol Visitor Center on May 15th at 2pm to discuss healthcare win-wins.
We'll be diving into the federal budget and where we can find healthcare savings that also benefit patients.
RSVP here! t.co/S9u96x7jHQ
We'll be diving into the federal budget and where we can find healthcare savings that also benefit patients.
RSVP here! t.co/S9u96x7jHQ
Brutal top of this story on Georgia’s Medicaid program with work requirements:
www.propublica.org/article/geor...
www.propublica.org/article/geor...
February 21, 2025 at 9:10 PM
Brutal top of this story on Georgia’s Medicaid program with work requirements:
www.propublica.org/article/geor...
www.propublica.org/article/geor...
Addressing the physician shortage will require state efforts like Washington's SB 5185, where qualified international medical graduates can earn full licensure without getting caught in the residency bottleneck.
You can read my testimony from Friday here: www.niskanencenter.org/testimony-cr...
You can read my testimony from Friday here: www.niskanencenter.org/testimony-cr...
February 3, 2025 at 6:56 PM
Addressing the physician shortage will require state efforts like Washington's SB 5185, where qualified international medical graduates can earn full licensure without getting caught in the residency bottleneck.
You can read my testimony from Friday here: www.niskanencenter.org/testimony-cr...
You can read my testimony from Friday here: www.niskanencenter.org/testimony-cr...
NEW: A group of Senators have offered fixes to how Medicare funds residencies, including 5,000 additional slots.
The proposal is an important step to address the doctor shortage, but more structural reforms are needed.
From Jared Rhoads and I for @niskanencenter.bsky.social:
The proposal is an important step to address the doctor shortage, but more structural reforms are needed.
From Jared Rhoads and I for @niskanencenter.bsky.social:
January 29, 2025 at 3:19 PM
NEW: A group of Senators have offered fixes to how Medicare funds residencies, including 5,000 additional slots.
The proposal is an important step to address the doctor shortage, but more structural reforms are needed.
From Jared Rhoads and I for @niskanencenter.bsky.social:
The proposal is an important step to address the doctor shortage, but more structural reforms are needed.
From Jared Rhoads and I for @niskanencenter.bsky.social:
NEW with Will Raderman: The SSA takes 100 days longer to process disability claims than it did a decade ago.
One of the reasons is the cumbersome way the agency works with medical examiners. New FOIA evidence shows that SSA isn't tracking the data needed to address the issue. (1/2)
One of the reasons is the cumbersome way the agency works with medical examiners. New FOIA evidence shows that SSA isn't tracking the data needed to address the issue. (1/2)
January 13, 2025 at 9:31 PM
NEW with Will Raderman: The SSA takes 100 days longer to process disability claims than it did a decade ago.
One of the reasons is the cumbersome way the agency works with medical examiners. New FOIA evidence shows that SSA isn't tracking the data needed to address the issue. (1/2)
One of the reasons is the cumbersome way the agency works with medical examiners. New FOIA evidence shows that SSA isn't tracking the data needed to address the issue. (1/2)
Solutions abound.
From better utilizing our existing programs like Conrad 30 to streamlining credentialing for sidelined workers, there are 6 changes policymakers should pursue to address our healthcare shortages: www.niskanencenter.org/immigration-...
From better utilizing our existing programs like Conrad 30 to streamlining credentialing for sidelined workers, there are 6 changes policymakers should pursue to address our healthcare shortages: www.niskanencenter.org/immigration-...
December 18, 2024 at 3:35 PM
Solutions abound.
From better utilizing our existing programs like Conrad 30 to streamlining credentialing for sidelined workers, there are 6 changes policymakers should pursue to address our healthcare shortages: www.niskanencenter.org/immigration-...
From better utilizing our existing programs like Conrad 30 to streamlining credentialing for sidelined workers, there are 6 changes policymakers should pursue to address our healthcare shortages: www.niskanencenter.org/immigration-...
3. Underutilized existing immigrant workforce
270,000 immigrants in the US with medical degrees are working below their skill level or are entirely out of the workforce.
This is in part due to cumbersome licensure requirements, like forcing doctors to repeat their residency.
270,000 immigrants in the US with medical degrees are working below their skill level or are entirely out of the workforce.
This is in part due to cumbersome licensure requirements, like forcing doctors to repeat their residency.
December 18, 2024 at 3:35 PM
3. Underutilized existing immigrant workforce
270,000 immigrants in the US with medical degrees are working below their skill level or are entirely out of the workforce.
This is in part due to cumbersome licensure requirements, like forcing doctors to repeat their residency.
270,000 immigrants in the US with medical degrees are working below their skill level or are entirely out of the workforce.
This is in part due to cumbersome licensure requirements, like forcing doctors to repeat their residency.
2. Instructor shortage
Both at medical schools and nursing programs, reporting shows that faculty shortages contribute to the rejecting of qualified applicants.
In nursing programs, there is an estimated 2,166 full-time faculty vacancies.
Both at medical schools and nursing programs, reporting shows that faculty shortages contribute to the rejecting of qualified applicants.
In nursing programs, there is an estimated 2,166 full-time faculty vacancies.
December 18, 2024 at 3:35 PM
2. Instructor shortage
Both at medical schools and nursing programs, reporting shows that faculty shortages contribute to the rejecting of qualified applicants.
In nursing programs, there is an estimated 2,166 full-time faculty vacancies.
Both at medical schools and nursing programs, reporting shows that faculty shortages contribute to the rejecting of qualified applicants.
In nursing programs, there is an estimated 2,166 full-time faculty vacancies.
1. Doctor burnout
"By 2022, the CDC found that 46% of the healthcare workforce was experiencing burnout and considering seeking new employment."
Without changes, a worsening shortage + significant administrative burden will only further exacerbate the burnout crisis.
"By 2022, the CDC found that 46% of the healthcare workforce was experiencing burnout and considering seeking new employment."
Without changes, a worsening shortage + significant administrative burden will only further exacerbate the burnout crisis.
December 18, 2024 at 3:35 PM
1. Doctor burnout
"By 2022, the CDC found that 46% of the healthcare workforce was experiencing burnout and considering seeking new employment."
Without changes, a worsening shortage + significant administrative burden will only further exacerbate the burnout crisis.
"By 2022, the CDC found that 46% of the healthcare workforce was experiencing burnout and considering seeking new employment."
Without changes, a worsening shortage + significant administrative burden will only further exacerbate the burnout crisis.
(🧵) My @niskanencenter.bsky.social colleague Cassandra Zimmer-Wong just put out an excellent paper on immigration solutions to our healthcare workforce shortages.
A few points policymakers should consider:
www.niskanencenter.org/immigration-...
A few points policymakers should consider:
www.niskanencenter.org/immigration-...
December 18, 2024 at 3:35 PM
(🧵) My @niskanencenter.bsky.social colleague Cassandra Zimmer-Wong just put out an excellent paper on immigration solutions to our healthcare workforce shortages.
A few points policymakers should consider:
www.niskanencenter.org/immigration-...
A few points policymakers should consider:
www.niskanencenter.org/immigration-...
3. Better Telehealth Data
The telehealth extension includes a critical component: A coding modifier for virtual platforms and "incident to" billing. Both show potential for misuse.
This will allow for data tracking during the extension period.
More on this: www.niskanencenter.org/addressing-c...
The telehealth extension includes a critical component: A coding modifier for virtual platforms and "incident to" billing. Both show potential for misuse.
This will allow for data tracking during the extension period.
More on this: www.niskanencenter.org/addressing-c...
December 18, 2024 at 2:15 PM
3. Better Telehealth Data
The telehealth extension includes a critical component: A coding modifier for virtual platforms and "incident to" billing. Both show potential for misuse.
This will allow for data tracking during the extension period.
More on this: www.niskanencenter.org/addressing-c...
The telehealth extension includes a critical component: A coding modifier for virtual platforms and "incident to" billing. Both show potential for misuse.
This will allow for data tracking during the extension period.
More on this: www.niskanencenter.org/addressing-c...
2. Unique Identifiers for off-campus HOPDs
Requiring off-campus hospital outpatient depts to bill using a separate ID number will allow for better tracking of price differences between on-campus and off-campus departments in the commercial market... and even set the stage for site-neutral reform.
Requiring off-campus hospital outpatient depts to bill using a separate ID number will allow for better tracking of price differences between on-campus and off-campus departments in the commercial market... and even set the stage for site-neutral reform.
December 18, 2024 at 2:15 PM
2. Unique Identifiers for off-campus HOPDs
Requiring off-campus hospital outpatient depts to bill using a separate ID number will allow for better tracking of price differences between on-campus and off-campus departments in the commercial market... and even set the stage for site-neutral reform.
Requiring off-campus hospital outpatient depts to bill using a separate ID number will allow for better tracking of price differences between on-campus and off-campus departments in the commercial market... and even set the stage for site-neutral reform.
🧵: 3 notable and important items included in yesterday's health CR:
1. Patent Reform
A bill from Senators Cornyn and Blumenthal will limit "patent thickets," a tool used by incumbent drug manufacturers to stymie competition from lower-cost drugs.
More here: www.niskanencenter.org/reforms-targ...
1. Patent Reform
A bill from Senators Cornyn and Blumenthal will limit "patent thickets," a tool used by incumbent drug manufacturers to stymie competition from lower-cost drugs.
More here: www.niskanencenter.org/reforms-targ...
December 18, 2024 at 2:15 PM
🧵: 3 notable and important items included in yesterday's health CR:
1. Patent Reform
A bill from Senators Cornyn and Blumenthal will limit "patent thickets," a tool used by incumbent drug manufacturers to stymie competition from lower-cost drugs.
More here: www.niskanencenter.org/reforms-targ...
1. Patent Reform
A bill from Senators Cornyn and Blumenthal will limit "patent thickets," a tool used by incumbent drug manufacturers to stymie competition from lower-cost drugs.
More here: www.niskanencenter.org/reforms-targ...
The US PTO just withdrew a good rule that would have educed the barriers to market entry for generic drugs and incentivize drug makers to focus on quality and novelty in their patenting decisions.
They cited "resource constraints" due to the 300+ comments: www.federalregister.gov/documents/20...
They cited "resource constraints" due to the 300+ comments: www.federalregister.gov/documents/20...
December 4, 2024 at 5:48 PM
The US PTO just withdrew a good rule that would have educed the barriers to market entry for generic drugs and incentivize drug makers to focus on quality and novelty in their patenting decisions.
They cited "resource constraints" due to the 300+ comments: www.federalregister.gov/documents/20...
They cited "resource constraints" due to the 300+ comments: www.federalregister.gov/documents/20...
It's the prices (negotiated rates).
Insurers and providers do not have sufficient incentive to negotiate lower rates and profits ensue.
We need a healthier, more aligned market if we want to bring costs down.
New from @bakerinstitute.bsky.social: www.bakerinstitute.org/research/pri...
Insurers and providers do not have sufficient incentive to negotiate lower rates and profits ensue.
We need a healthier, more aligned market if we want to bring costs down.
New from @bakerinstitute.bsky.social: www.bakerinstitute.org/research/pri...
November 21, 2024 at 3:41 PM
It's the prices (negotiated rates).
Insurers and providers do not have sufficient incentive to negotiate lower rates and profits ensue.
We need a healthier, more aligned market if we want to bring costs down.
New from @bakerinstitute.bsky.social: www.bakerinstitute.org/research/pri...
Insurers and providers do not have sufficient incentive to negotiate lower rates and profits ensue.
We need a healthier, more aligned market if we want to bring costs down.
New from @bakerinstitute.bsky.social: www.bakerinstitute.org/research/pri...
Due to fears of oversupply in the mid to late 20th century, the US purposefully downsized production of hospitals and physicians.
The US now has the lowest rate of primary care physicians among peer nations and 43% fewer hospital beds than the OECD average.
The US now has the lowest rate of primary care physicians among peer nations and 43% fewer hospital beds than the OECD average.
November 18, 2024 at 1:32 PM
Due to fears of oversupply in the mid to late 20th century, the US purposefully downsized production of hospitals and physicians.
The US now has the lowest rate of primary care physicians among peer nations and 43% fewer hospital beds than the OECD average.
The US now has the lowest rate of primary care physicians among peer nations and 43% fewer hospital beds than the OECD average.
What’s driving our high and ineffective spending? It’s the prices of hospital and physician services!
While over utilization is certainly a contributor, about two-thirds of the spending growth between 2015 and 2019 came from higher prices.
While over utilization is certainly a contributor, about two-thirds of the spending growth between 2015 and 2019 came from higher prices.
November 18, 2024 at 1:32 PM
What’s driving our high and ineffective spending? It’s the prices of hospital and physician services!
While over utilization is certainly a contributor, about two-thirds of the spending growth between 2015 and 2019 came from higher prices.
While over utilization is certainly a contributor, about two-thirds of the spending growth between 2015 and 2019 came from higher prices.
We have a scarce and ineffective healthcare system.
The US leads peer nations in healthcare spending, yet has the highest levels of treatable deaths.
While the US has a relatively unhealthy population, it’s clear the money we are spending is not going to the right interventions.
The US leads peer nations in healthcare spending, yet has the highest levels of treatable deaths.
While the US has a relatively unhealthy population, it’s clear the money we are spending is not going to the right interventions.
November 18, 2024 at 1:32 PM
We have a scarce and ineffective healthcare system.
The US leads peer nations in healthcare spending, yet has the highest levels of treatable deaths.
While the US has a relatively unhealthy population, it’s clear the money we are spending is not going to the right interventions.
The US leads peer nations in healthcare spending, yet has the highest levels of treatable deaths.
While the US has a relatively unhealthy population, it’s clear the money we are spending is not going to the right interventions.
Hello to my new bluesky followers!
ICYMI, at @niskanencenter.bsky.social, we recently released an abundance agenda for healthcare!
The US limits the supply of doctors and facilities and incentivizes behavior that distorts the market through payment policy.🧵: www.niskanencenter.org/healthcare-a...
ICYMI, at @niskanencenter.bsky.social, we recently released an abundance agenda for healthcare!
The US limits the supply of doctors and facilities and incentivizes behavior that distorts the market through payment policy.🧵: www.niskanencenter.org/healthcare-a...
November 18, 2024 at 1:32 PM
Hello to my new bluesky followers!
ICYMI, at @niskanencenter.bsky.social, we recently released an abundance agenda for healthcare!
The US limits the supply of doctors and facilities and incentivizes behavior that distorts the market through payment policy.🧵: www.niskanencenter.org/healthcare-a...
ICYMI, at @niskanencenter.bsky.social, we recently released an abundance agenda for healthcare!
The US limits the supply of doctors and facilities and incentivizes behavior that distorts the market through payment policy.🧵: www.niskanencenter.org/healthcare-a...