As COVID-era subsidies for health insurance are set to expire, millions of Americans are bracing for significant premium increases. The expiration of enhanced premium tax credits could lead to average premium hikes of over 114%, impacting low- and middle-income enrollees the hardest.

## Millions Face Health Insurance Premium Hikes as Subsidies Expire

The expiration of enhanced premium tax credits (PTCs) at the end of this year is poised to significantly impact millions of Americans who rely on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) for health insurance.

With over 24 million people enrolled in ACA plans, many are facing the prospect of double-digit premium increases alongside reduced federal subsidies, which have made health coverage more affordable since their introduction during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Health insurers are proposing a median rate increase of 18% for 2026, a sharp rise from the 7% increase seen in the previous year.

This increase is attributed to rising medical costs, a sicker risk pool due to the expiration of enhanced subsidies, and other factors.

If Congress does not act to extend these subsidies, many enrollees will experience a "double whammy" of losing their tax credits while also facing higher premiums.

The enhanced PTCs, which were first introduced in 2021 and extended through the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022, have allowed many low- and middle-income individuals to afford health insurance by significantly lowering their premium contributions.

For instance, an individual earning $28,000 would see their annual premium payment rise from approximately $325 to $1,562 if the enhanced credits expire.

This represents a staggering increase of over 75% in premium costs for many enrollees.

The potential consequences of these changes are dire.

Analysts estimate that if the enhanced subsidies are not renewed, the average premium for subsidized enrollees could more than double, increasing from $888 in 2025 to $1,904 in 2026.

This could lead to a significant drop in enrollment, with estimates suggesting that ACA enrollment could fall by as much as 57% due to the combination of expiring tax credits and new paperwork requirements.

The political landscape surrounding this issue is complex.

With Congress currently deadlocked over government funding, the fate of the enhanced subsidies remains uncertain.

Democrats are advocating for the extension of these subsidies as part of any funding deal, while Republicans have indicated they will only negotiate on the issue once the government is funded.

This impasse leaves millions of Americans in limbo as the open enrollment period for ACA plans approaches on November 1.

The expiration of enhanced PTCs will disproportionately affect those with incomes above 400% of the federal poverty level, who will lose their eligibility for subsidies altogether.

For example, a couple earning $85,000 could see their annual premium payments rise by over $22,600, making health insurance unaffordable for many.

Conversely, lower-income individuals may also face increased costs, albeit to a lesser extent, as they will still qualify for some level of financial assistance.

The implications of these changes extend beyond individual finances.

Health policy experts warn that a reduction in coverage could lead to increased emergency care needs, straining hospitals and potentially resulting in closures or higher costs for those who remain insured.

As more individuals drop out of the insurance market, the risk pool will become sicker, leading to further premium increases for those who remain enrolled.

In summary, the expiration of enhanced premium tax credits at the end of this year poses a significant threat to the affordability of health insurance for millions of Americans.

With rising premiums and reduced subsidies, many individuals may find themselves unable to afford necessary medical care, leading to broader public health implications.

As Congress continues to debate the future of these subsidies, the urgency for action grows, with millions of lives hanging in the balance.

Millions Face Health Insurance Premium Hikes as Subsidies Expire

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Flu cases are rising sharply in Massachusetts, particularly among children, prompting health officials to urge vaccinations and preventive measures. With the holiday season underway, residents are encouraged to take steps to protect themselves and their families from the flu.

## Flu Cases Surge in Massachusetts: Health Tips for the Season

Flu activity is on the rise in Massachusetts, with health officials reporting a significant increase in cases this season.

The Boston Public Health Commission has noted that flu cases are surging earlier than last year, urging residents to get vaccinated to protect themselves and their loved ones during the holiday season.

During the week of December 7 to December 13, approximately 4.19% of doctor's visits in Massachusetts were for flu-like symptoms, a notable increase from 2.78% the previous week.

The state has reported a total of 3,174 lab-confirmed influenza cases during that same week, up from 1,401 the week prior.

This uptick is particularly concerning as it coincides with holiday gatherings, where the flu can spread easily.

The increase in flu cases is especially pronounced among children.

In Boston, there has been a 114% rise in flu cases, with children under five experiencing an 83% increase and those aged five to 17 seeing a staggering 217% surge.

Health officials are particularly worried about the impact on vulnerable populations, including the elderly and young children, who are at higher risk for severe illness.

Despite the rise in cases, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health has indicated that the severity of the influenza this season remains low.

However, hospitalizations associated with influenza have increased, with about 1.90% of hospitalizations in the state attributed to the flu during the week of December 7 to December 13, up from 1.24% the previous week.

To combat the rising flu cases, health officials recommend several preventive measures:.

**Get Vaccinated**: The Boston Public Health Commission emphasizes that vaccination is the best way to reduce the risk of flu and its complications.

As of early December, only 30% of Boston residents had received their flu vaccine this season.

**Avoid Close Contact**: Residents are advised to avoid close contact with individuals who are sick.

If you are feeling unwell, it is crucial to stay home from work, school, and holiday gatherings until you have been fever-free for at least 24 hours.

**Practice Good Hygiene**: Regular hand washing with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer is essential.

Additionally, covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing can help prevent the spread of the virus.

**Clean Frequently Touched Surfaces**: If hosting gatherings, ensure that frequently touched surfaces such as countertops and doorknobs are cleaned regularly to minimize the risk of transmission.

**Consider Masking in Crowded Spaces**: In crowded environments, wearing a mask can help reduce the risk of catching or spreading the flu, especially during travel or public gatherings.

As flu cases continue to rise in Massachusetts, it is vital for residents to take proactive steps to protect themselves and their families.

With the holiday season upon us, following health guidelines and getting vaccinated can significantly reduce the risk of illness.

Health officials remain hopeful that increased awareness and preventive measures will help mitigate the impact of the flu this season.

Flu Cases Surge in Massachusetts: Health Tips for the Season

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US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr has declared a public health emergency in Washington state following severe flooding caused by heavy rains. The declaration aims to assist Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries and facilitate access to essential health services during the crisis.

## Public Health Emergency Declared in Washington State After Flooding

Kennedy Jr declared a public health emergency on Wednesday due to severe flooding in Washington state caused by heavy rains and overflowing rivers.

This emergency declaration is primarily focused on aiding Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries who may be particularly vulnerable during such disasters.

The flooding has led to thousands of evacuations, breached multiple levees, and damaged numerous highways across the region.

Tragically, one fatality has been reported as a result of the flooding.

The declaration from Kennedy follows an emergency declaration issued by President Donald Trump on December 12, which unlocked federal resources to assist in the response efforts.

As part of the emergency response, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is providing access to its emPOWER program, which offers data on Medicare enrollees who rely on electricity-dependent medical equipment.

This information is crucial for ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the necessary health care services during and after the flooding.

John Knox, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), stated, "HHS stands ready to assist state and local response efforts in the state of Washington due to the potential health care impacts from severe storms." He emphasized that the agency is prepared to support local actions to save lives and maintain the delivery of health care services.

In addition to the emergency declaration, HHS has waived penalties for hospitals that may violate federal health privacy rules under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) during this crisis.

This waiver is intended to facilitate the provision of care to those affected by the flooding without the concern of legal repercussions for privacy violations.

The federal Disaster Distress Helpline is also available for crisis counseling, providing support to those impacted by the disaster.

The multilingual hotline is accessible 24 hours a day at 1-800-985-5990.

The emergency declaration is retroactive to December 9, indicating that the situation has been critical for some time.

Furthermore, a windstorm forecasted to hit western Washington could exacerbate existing problems, as saturated soil may lead to fallen trees and power lines.

However, the intensity of the windstorm is now expected to be less severe than initially predicted.

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson has indicated plans to request a major disaster declaration from President Trump, which could potentially unlock tens of millions of dollars in federal assistance to address the aftermath of the flooding.

This request comes as the state continues to grapple with the extensive damage caused by the recent storms.

In a related political context, Washington Attorney General Nick Brown has filed a lawsuit against Kennedy regarding his administration's stance on gender-affirming care providers, calling it "cruel and unnecessary." This lawsuit marks the 49th legal action taken by Washington against the federal government since Trump took office.

As the situation develops, state and federal agencies are working together to ensure that residents affected by the flooding receive the necessary support and resources to navigate this challenging time.

Public Health Emergency Declared in Washington State After Flooding

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Recent research has revealed insights into brain activity related to food preoccupation in individuals using tirzepatide, a medication for type 2 diabetes. A case study highlighted how this drug temporarily suppressed signals in the brain's reward center, potentially offering new avenues for treating eating disorders. However, the effects were not long-lasting, indicating the need for further research.

## Brain Activity and Food Preoccupation in Tirzepatide Users

Recent studies have begun to explore the relationship between brain activity and food preoccupation in individuals using tirzepatide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor agonist primarily prescribed for type 2 diabetes management.

This medication has shown promise in temporarily suppressing brain signals associated with food cravings, particularly in patients with severe obesity and loss-of-control eating behaviors.

One notable case involved a 60-year-old woman, referred to as Participant 3, who had severe treatment-resistant obesity and struggled with significant food preoccupation.

Despite undergoing bariatric surgery and trying various weight loss strategies, she continued to experience distressing thoughts about food, leading to episodes of loss-of-control eating.

Before her enrollment in a clinical trial, Participant 3 was prescribed tirzepatide to manage her type 2 diabetes.

Initially, she reported no significant impact on her food preoccupation while on a lower dose of the medication.

However, as her dosage was gradually increased to optimize her diabetes management, researchers observed a unique opportunity to study the effects of tirzepatide on her brain activity in real time.

The trial involved the implantation of electrodes in the nucleus accumbens (NAc), a brain region associated with reward and impulse control.

This setup allowed researchers to monitor electrical activity in the NAc as Participant 3 encountered food cues.

Interestingly, after reaching her full dose of tirzepatide, she reported a temporary cessation of food preoccupation, and her NAc activity was notably quiet.

However, this suppression of food-related signals was not permanent.

After five months, the participant began to experience food preoccupation again, with corresponding NAc activity returning to levels consistent with those seen in individuals with obesity.

This suggests that while tirzepatide may provide short-term relief from food cravings, its effects on brain activity and eating behaviors may not be sustained over time.

The findings from this case study align with broader research indicating that up to 60% of individuals with obesity experience "food noise," or persistent thoughts about food, which can lead to disordered eating behaviors.

The NAc plays a crucial role in regulating these behaviors, and its dysregulation is often observed in patients with binge eating disorder (BED) and other eating disorders.

While tirzepatide has been effective in managing blood sugar levels and promoting weight loss, its potential role in addressing food preoccupation and impulsivity related to eating disorders remains an area of active investigation.

Researchers emphasize the need for further studies to understand how GLP-1 and GIP inhibitors can be optimized for treating these conditions effectively.

In conclusion, the case of Participant 3 provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between medication, brain activity, and eating behaviors.

While tirzepatide shows promise in temporarily alleviating food preoccupation, the transient nature of its effects highlights the necessity for ongoing research to develop more effective long-term treatments for individuals struggling with obesity and related eating disorders.

As the understanding of these mechanisms deepens, it may pave the way for innovative therapeutic strategies that better address the impulsivity traits associated with obesity and enhance the quality of life for affected individuals.

Brain Activity and Food Preoccupation in Tirzepatide Users

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As Congress adjourns without addressing critical health care reforms, millions of Americans face dire consequences. Recent legislation has led to significant cuts in health care programs, leaving many without coverage and increasing financial burdens on families.

## Congress Left, Health Care Crisis Remains: Americans Suffer

The recent adjournment of Congress has left a significant void in addressing the ongoing health care crisis in the United States.

With the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBB), critical health care programs are facing unprecedented cuts, which will have dire consequences for millions of Americans.

The OBBB, signed into law on July 4, 2025, implements over $1 trillion in cuts to health programs, marking the largest rollback of federal support for health care in American history.

This legislation is projected to strip health insurance from an estimated 10 million individuals, exacerbating an already critical situation for many families.

The cuts primarily target Medicaid, Medicare, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides essential food assistance to low-income families.

Polling data indicates that nearly half of US adults find it difficult to afford health care costs, with many reporting that they have delayed or forgone necessary medical care due to financial constraints.

The Commonwealth Fund Health Care Affordability Survey highlights that even those with insurance are not immune to the burdens of high health care costs, leading to significant medical debt and worsening health outcomes.

The OBBB's provisions include new work requirements for Medicaid recipients, which could lead to millions losing their coverage.

Additionally, the legislation imposes more frequent eligibility checks and restricts access for certain immigrant populations, further complicating the landscape of health care access.

These changes are expected to disproportionately affect vulnerable groups, including older adults and individuals with disabilities, who already face significant barriers to care.

The impact of these cuts is not just theoretical; it is already being felt across the country.

A significant portion of the population is experiencing increased out-of-pocket costs, which leads to a higher likelihood of skipping necessary treatments.

In fact, about one-third of adults reported postponing health care due to costs, with uninsured individuals being particularly affected.

This trend is alarming, as it can lead to more severe health issues and increased reliance on emergency services, ultimately driving up costs for the entire health care system.

Moreover, the financial strain of health care costs is compounded by the reality that many Americans are already in debt due to medical expenses.

Approximately 41% of adults reported having some form of medical debt, with disproportionate impacts on low-income families and communities of color.

This financial burden not only affects individuals' health but also their overall economic stability, as families are forced to make difficult choices between health care and other essential needs.

Public opinion reflects a growing concern about these legislative changes.

Many Americans oppose the cuts to Medicaid and SNAP, fearing that they will limit access to affordable health care and exacerbate food insecurity.

Despite this, Congress has moved forward with the OBBB, seemingly ignoring the will of the people.

The disconnect between legislative actions and public sentiment raises questions about the priorities of lawmakers and their commitment to addressing the health care needs of their constituents.

As Congress returns to session, the urgency for comprehensive health care reform remains critical.

The current trajectory, marked by significant cuts and increased barriers to access, threatens to undo years of progress in health care coverage and outcomes.

Without immediate action, millions of Americans will continue to pay the price for legislative inaction, facing higher costs, reduced access to care, and ultimately, worse health outcomes.

In conclusion, the adjournment of Congress without addressing the health care crisis underscores a troubling reality for many Americans.

The passage of the OBBB has set the stage for a significant deterioration in health care access and affordability, leaving vulnerable populations at risk.

As the nation grapples with these challenges, the call for a more equitable and accessible health care system has never been more urgent.

Congress Left, Health Care Crisis Remains: Americans Suffer

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The US Department of Health and Human Services has declared a public health emergency in Washington state due to severe storms, flooding, and landslides. This declaration aims to facilitate healthcare access and support recovery efforts in the affected regions.

## Public Health Emergency Declared in Washington After Severe Storms

The US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F.

Kennedy Jr has declared a public health emergency for Washington state following a series of devastating storms that have caused significant flooding, landslides, and mudslides across the region.

This emergency declaration aims to enhance healthcare access and support recovery efforts in the wake of the natural disasters that began impacting the area on December 9, 2025.

This declaration comes on the heels of an emergency declaration by President Donald Trump, which was issued on December 12, 2025.

Trump's declaration unlocked federal assistance for various counties affected by the storms, including Benton, Chelan, Clallam, Grays Harbor, Jefferson, King, Kittitas, Lewis, Mason, Pierce, Skagit, Snohomish, Thurston, Wahkiakum, Whatcom, and Yakima.

The assistance is also extended to the Samish Indian Nation and other Tribal Nations within the specified jurisdictions.

John Knox, HHS' Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), emphasized the department's readiness to assist state and local response efforts.

He noted the potential healthcare impacts stemming from the severe storms and highlighted the importance of ensuring that residents have continuous access to necessary care during and after the crisis.

To facilitate this, HHS has activated its emPOWER program, which provides critical data on Medicare beneficiaries who rely on electricity-dependent medical equipment, such as dialysis machines and oxygen tanks.

This information is vital for prioritizing at-risk individuals during power outages and other disruptions caused by the storms.

In addition to healthcare access, the HHS declaration allows for greater flexibility in Medicare and Medicaid services to address urgent needs arising from the emergency.

This flexibility is crucial as communities work to recover from the extensive damage caused by back-to-back atmospheric rivers that have led to historic flooding and infrastructure disruptions.

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson had previously declared a statewide emergency on December 10, 2025, in response to the severe weather conditions.

He subsequently directed $3.5 million in state aid to support residents affected by the flooding and activated assistance programs for quicker emergency relief.

As recovery efforts ramp up, HHS is also providing emotional support through the Disaster Distress Helpline, which offers 24/7 crisis counseling in multiple languages.

Residents can reach out for assistance by calling or texting 1-800-985-5990, ensuring that mental health resources are available alongside physical health support during this challenging time.

The HHS declaration and the accompanying federal assistance are critical steps in addressing the immediate healthcare needs of those impacted by the storms.

As the situation evolves, state and federal agencies are working collaboratively to ensure that residents receive the necessary support to recover and rebuild.

In summary, the public health emergency declared by HHS underscores the severity of the situation in Washington state and the commitment of federal and state agencies to provide essential healthcare services and support to affected communities.

Public Health Emergency Declared in Washington After Severe Storms

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Tossing apple cores out of car windows may seem harmless, but it poses significant risks to wildlife and the environment. This article explores the ecological consequences of this common practice, including wildlife fatalities, digestive issues for animals, and the potential introduction of non-native species.

## The Dangers of Throwing Apple Cores Out the Car Window

Many drivers may think that tossing an apple core out of their car window is a benign act, believing it to be biodegradable and harmless.

However, experts warn that this seemingly innocent action can have serious ecological consequences that affect both wildlife and human safety.

One of the primary concerns is that apple cores do not decompose quickly when discarded on roadsides.

According to Lauren Click, executive director of Let's Go Compost, proper decomposition requires specific conditions such as moisture, heat, and a rich microbial environment, which are rarely found along highways.

Instead, apple cores can persist for one to two months or longer, remaining a potential food source for wildlife during that time.

When animals begin to associate roadsides with easy meals, they are more likely to linger in these dangerous areas, increasing their risk of being struck by vehicles.

Kevin Jackson, founder of EXP Journeys, emphasizes that this behavior can lead to wildlife fatalities and create hazardous situations for drivers who may need to brake or swerve suddenly to avoid hitting an animal.

Moreover, apple cores can disrupt the natural diets of wildlife.

Many animals are not adapted to digest apples, which can lead to digestive issues or even choking hazards.

This is particularly concerning for species that may be drawn to the roadside in search of food, as they may consume items that are not suitable for their diets.

The introduction of apple seeds into the environment can also have unintended consequences.

If these seeds sprout, they can lead to the growth of non-native apple trees, which may crowd out native species and disrupt local ecosystems.

This ecological disruption can have far-reaching effects, altering the balance of local flora and fauna.

In addition to the ecological risks, throwing apple cores out of car windows can also be considered littering, which is illegal in many states.

For instance, Washington's health and safety laws define litter as any waste material disposed of improperly, including food scraps.

Penalties for littering can be severe, with fines ranging from $250 to $6,500 depending on the state and the amount of litter involved.

Furthermore, the act of littering can contribute to a broader culture of disregard for the environment.

If individuals justify throwing away biodegradable items like apple cores, they may be more likely to dismiss the importance of proper waste disposal in general.

In conclusion, while it may seem harmless to toss an apple core out of the car window, the practice poses significant risks to wildlife, disrupts local ecosystems, and can lead to legal consequences.

To protect both the environment and public safety, it is essential to dispose of food waste responsibly, ideally by composting or placing it in a trash bag for proper disposal.

By understanding the implications of our actions, we can contribute to a healthier planet and ensure the safety of both wildlife and human drivers alike.

The Dangers of Throwing Apple Cores Out the Car Window

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US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr has declared a public health emergency in Washington state due to severe flooding and storms. This declaration aims to assist vulnerable populations, particularly Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries, and follows an emergency declaration from President Trump.

## RFK Jr. Declares Public Health Emergency for Washington Flooding

Kennedy Jr declared a public health emergency on Wednesday in response to severe flooding in Washington state caused by heavy rains and overflowing rivers.

This declaration is particularly focused on assisting Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries who may be vulnerable during such disasters.

The flooding has led to thousands of evacuations, breached multiple levees, and caused significant damage to highways across the region.

Although the flooding did not reach the levels initially forecasted, it has resulted in at least one reported death.

Kennedy's declaration is retroactive to December 9, when the severe weather began impacting the area.

In conjunction with this emergency declaration, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is providing access to HHS emPOWER, a program that offers data on Medicare enrollees who rely on electricity-dependent medical equipment.

This information is crucial for ensuring that those who depend on such equipment have continuous access to necessary healthcare services during and after the storm.

John Knox, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR), emphasized that HHS is prepared to assist state and local response efforts due to the potential health care impacts from the severe storms.

The agency has also waived certain penalties under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) to facilitate the sharing of health information necessary for disaster response.

The declaration could enhance Washington state's chances of receiving a major disaster declaration from President Trump, which would unlock federal resources to aid in recovery efforts.

Governor Bob Ferguson is expected to request such a declaration in the coming weeks.

As the state grapples with the aftermath of the flooding, a windstorm is forecasted to hit western Washington, potentially exacerbating existing issues by making trees and power lines more susceptible to falling due to saturated soil.

In addition to the emergency measures, the federal Disaster Distress Helpline is available for those in need of crisis counseling.

This multilingual hotline operates 24 hours a day and can be reached via call or text at 1-800-985-5990.

The public health emergency declaration highlights the ongoing challenges that severe weather events pose to health care providers and the importance of coordinated response efforts to protect vulnerable populations.

As the situation develops, state and federal agencies are working together to ensure that residents affected by the flooding receive the care and support they need.

In a related political context, Washington Attorney General Nick Brown has filed a lawsuit against Kennedy regarding his administration's stance on gender-affirming care, calling it "cruel and unnecessary." This lawsuit marks the 49th legal action taken by Washington against the federal government since Trump took office.

The declaration by Kennedy and the ongoing response efforts underscore the critical intersection of health care and emergency management in the face of natural disasters.

Topic

Health

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