National Updates
FDA to Roll Back Lab-Developed Test Oversight Rule
The FDA will rescind a rule that increased oversight of lab-developed tests (LDTs) after a court ruled it overreached. Critics had argued the regulation hampered access and innovation in diagnostics. Reuters
U.S. Vaccine Panel Recommends Stand-Alone Chickenpox Shots for Toddlers
The CDC’s advisory committee has voted to recommend standalone chickenpox (varicella) shots, rather than only combination MMRV vaccines, for toddlers—giving parents more vaccine schedule flexibility. Reuters
Texas Updates
Harbor Health Acquires 32 VillageMD Clinics
Harbor Health (Austin-based) is purchasing 32 Texas clinics from VillageMD. The deal includes clinics in Austin, San Antonio, El Paso, and Dallas, bringing over 80 clinicians into Harbor’s network. KFF Health News
North Texas Leaders Warn Loss of ACA Tax Credits Could Harm Patients
Community and healthcare leaders in North Texas are sounding alarm that expiration of Affordable Care Act tax credits could reduce coverage affordability for many, especially middle-income families. KERA News
Global Health Alerts
U.S. Announces New Global Health Strategy Focused on Self-Reliance
The U.S. government unveiled the “America First Global Health Strategy,” shifting foreign health aid toward priorities like HIV/AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis, and polio, emphasizing drug supply, health workforce, and partnership with recipient countries with less focus on broader maternal/child health or vaccine-preventable disease programs. Reuters+1
WHO Raises Alarm Over Industry Blocking NCD Reforms
The WHO warns that alcohol, tobacco, and ultra-processed food companies are lobbying to weaken health reforms aimed at reducing non-communicable diseases (NCDs such as cancer, heart disease). Estimates suggest modest investment could save millions of lives. Reuters
Clinical Tips for Providers
- Review lab test protocols—patients might see changes in LDT availability or oversight.
- For toddlers, offer standalone chickenpox vaccines as they become available and discuss options with parents.
- Assist patients potentially impacted by losing ACA tax credits: check eligibility, alternate options.
- For global health clients or travel patients, explain how U.S. strategy changes may affect aid, vaccine programs.
- Continue patient education around NCD prevention: diet, exercise, reducing tobacco & alcohol use.
