In a new “Beyond the Data” column, KFF’s President and CEO Dr. Drew Altman analyzes years of KFF polling on vaccines in light of the current controversies about them. The real problem, he says, is not lack of public confidence in the safety of vaccines — few say they are unsafe — it’s that polarization and misinformation have eroded confidence in what’s true or not, and in scientific institutions people used to rely on for the facts.
KFF's updated analysis apportions the increase in the number of uninsured across the 50 states and DC, including the percentage point increase by state. Nationally, CBO estimates that the reconciliation law will increase the number of uninsured by 10 million in 2034. That number would rise to over 14 million if enhanced premium tax credits for ACA Marketplace enrollees expire later this year.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is targeting the government’s Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, without which manufacturers might cease producing shots.
Alarmed at Republicans’ deep cuts to health care and restrictions on reproductive rights, advocates are supporting California’s effort to counter a middecade gerrymander by the Texas GOP to pad their party’s fragile U.S. House majority.
Please note: We won't publish This Week on Aug. 29. We'll be back in your inbox on Sep. 5.
Question of the Week
Last week, 46% correctly answered that 77% of 1988 NFL players say playing professional football had a negative impact on their physical health.
How many millions of additional people nationwide could be uninsured in 2034 due to the budget reconciliation package and expiration of the ACA enhanced tax credits?
