National Updates
Insurance Marketplace & Medicare Staff Called Back Amid Shutdown
Despite the ongoing federal shutdown, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is temporarily recalling over half of its previously furloughed workers to support the upcoming Medicare and ACA Open Enrollment periods. This move highlights the critical nature of these programs amid funding uncertainty. https://www.1011now.com+2KFF Health News+2
Pharmaceutical Approval Narrowly Hits Market
GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)’s new blood-cancer drug received U.S. approval but in a more limited form than anticipated. The constrained rollout may affect access and pricing dynamics in oncology care. Reuters
Texas Updates
Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Plano Breaks Ground on $343 M Patient Tower
The hospital has commenced construction on a 300,000-square-foot, eight-story patient tower in Plano, expected to open in fall 2028. The expansion will add 168 new beds and boost overall capacity to 563 beds, including nearly 400 acute and critical‐care beds. It will also enhance emergency services and specialty care (neuroscience, heart & vascular, digestive health). Community Impact+1
Global Health Alerts
Global Health Funding and Aid Trends Under Pressure
Worldwide health funding is under strain as major programs face declining government support. This threatens momentum in major disease control efforts and public-health infrastructure abroad. KFF Health News+1
Clinical Tips for Providers
Prepare patients for potential disruptions or changes in insurance coverage and enrollment support; inform them of avenues for assistance during the open-enrollment window.
Counsel oncology patients on new drug approvals and access constraints—especially those under financial or insurance stress.
Maintain vigilance for global health impact—patients with travel or connections to high-need regions may face indirect effects of aid loss or program slow-downs.
