Here are this week’s top five most-clicked stories from MHA’s News Roundup newsletter.
Work AHEAD: State, Federal Officials Finalizing Terms of New Hospital System in Maryland
Maryland Matters, by Danielle J. Brown
State and federal officials are finalizing the terms of an agreement to usher in a new hospital payment system in Maryland to replace the one set to expire at the end of the year. The state’s hospital-rate setting commission gave an overview Wednesday of some of the terms laid out in a future agreement with federal officials to transition the state into a federal program called the States Advancing All-Payer Health Equity Approaches and Development, or AHEAD, model.
Vascular Disease: Surgeon Explains Possible Symptoms and Treatment Methods
WBAL-TV, by Jenyne Donaldson
Baltimore hospitals are overcrowded even without a surge in respiratory illnesses. Dr. Sharon Swencki of MedStar Health said full hospitals are backing up emergency rooms and forcing patient diversions. With flu season approaching, doctors worry about capacity as more patients turn to ERs due to long waits for other care.
What Black Women Should Know About PCOS Risks and Treatment
Afro News, by Victoria Mejicanos
Dr. Nicola London of MedStar Health highlights how polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) often goes undiagnosed in Black women, despite its serious effects on fertility, metabolism, and long-term health. She emphasizes the need for greater awareness, early screening, and open conversations between patients and providers to ensure timely treatment and better outcomes.
Health Care Price Hike Frustrates Maryland Enrollees
The Capital Gazette, by Karl Hille
A Baltimore worker, Robert Laughlin, testified before Congress about the steep rise in insurance premiums as federal health care tax credits are set to expire. His monthly premium is jumping from $60 to $455 starting in January — a situation expected to affect 190,000 Marylanders who rely on these credits, with premiums projected to increase by about 95% in 2026. The Maryland Insurance Administration has also approved an average 13.4% premium hike for 2026, leaving many residents worried they’ll no longer be able to afford coverage.
Upper Chesapeake’s New Chief Medical Officer Focuses on Elevating Health Care in Harford County
The Baltimore Sun, by Matt Hubbard
The new chief medical officer of University of Maryland Upper Chesapeake Health, Giora Netzer, says he is focused on enhancing the system’s delivery of care by providing more transparency and communication among patients, their families and hospital staff.
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