Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) News

The Department of Health and Human Services and Operation Warp Speed said it will immediately broaden the population of those eligible to be vaccinated from COVID-19. In an effort to quickly increase the number of vaccinated individuals, the federal government will ask states to begin vaccinating patients over the age of 65 and those with underlying health conditions that place them at risk for COVID-19.

The COVID-19 pandemic has confirmed the strategic rationale underlying many hospital and health system mergers and acquisitions and may be acting as a catalyst for innovative strategic partnerships and tactical transactions, according to a new report by management consultancy KaufmanHall.

I have no doubt that Americans and people all over the world are looking forward to turning the page to a new year. The challenges the health care field encountered in 2020 due to the global pandemic have been intense both personally and professionally. But hope is growing for 2021 with the initial rollout of COVID-19 vaccines and much more to come. At a time when the country needs us most, hospitals and health care professionals continue to respond with excellence and compassion as we care for patients, families and communities.

Making everyone part of the solution and collaborations between clinical and hospital leadership is key to navigating the pandemic. In this first in a four-part series on lessons learned on the front lines, read about how teamwork at both Henry Ford Health System and Medisys Health Network accomplished greatness.

Making everyone part of the solution and collaborations between clinical and hospital leadership is key to navigating the pandemic. In this second in a four-part series on lessons learned on the front lines, read about how communication remains a vital component of a strong workforce, both from the top down and bottom up.

Making everyone part of the solution and collaborations between clinical and hospital leadership is key to navigating the pandemic. In this third in a four-part series on lessons learned on the front lines, read about how flexibility and preparation aided Henry Ford Health System and Medisys Health Network.

Making everyone part of the solution and collaborations between clinical and hospital leadership is key to navigating the pandemic. In this final in a four-part series on lessons learned on the front lines, read about the importance of supporting the health care workforce, especially now.

The Food and Drug Administration alerted clinical laboratories and health care providers of its ongoing effort to monitor the potential molecular test impact resulting from SARS-CoV-2 mutations, including the B.1.1.7 variant that has emerged from the United Kingdom.

The Department of Health and Human Services formally renewed the COVID-19 public health emergency declaration effective Jan. 21. The 90-day extension will help hospitals and health systems combat COVID-19 in their communities. 

Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar today discussed public health issues, including the COVID-19 pandemic and vaccination efforts, during a virtual forum moderated by AHA Executive Vice President Tom Nickels.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention allocated $22 billion in funding to states, localities and territories for COVID-19 testing and vaccination activities authorized in December by the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act.

The AHA released the latest edition of the COVID-19 Snapshot, which highlights the critical needs of hospitals and health systems during the deepening public health emergency.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services released updated guidance in response to questions on maintaining Medicaid enrollment during the Public Health Emergency under its interim final rule implementing Section 6008 of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.

Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar, Jan. 8 at 1 p.m. ET will discuss public health initiatives that HHS has worked on over the past four years, as well as activities related to the COVID-19 pandemic, including vaccination efforts.

The AHA urged the Department of Health and Human Services to take certain steps to speed COVID-19 vaccinations.

The past 10 months have been filled with jarring and dissonant images, scenes that have prompted us to say, “never thought we’d see that in our country.” Unfortunately, we now have to add yesterday’s storming of the U.S. Capitol and assault on our democracy to that mix.  

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 21 cases of anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction, among the nearly 1.9 million people who received a first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine between Dec. 14 and 23.

The Food and Drug Administration warned that Curative’s SARS-Cov-2 test could produce false results and that health care providers should strictly follow its authorization and labeling.

The Food and Drug Administration reminded the public of the importance of receiving COVID-19 vaccines in accordance to their agency authorizations, a process that FDA said will safely provide the “remarkable” levels of protection observed during large, randomized clinical trials.

New research conducted by the National Institutes of Health is shedding light on how COVID-19 affects patients’ brains.