Medicare officials say researchers and the public will now have an easier way to analyze spending on costly prescription drugs.

Americans want to know what the next U.S. president will do to lower their rising healthcare costs, a priority shared by Republican and Democratic voters and second only to keeping the country safe, according to a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll.

Prices rose faster than inflation for 22% of top generic drugs reviewed between 2005 and 2014, according to a report released Thursday by HHS' Office of Inspector General.

A newly qualified November 2016 ballot measure would impose price controls on state drug purchases, potentially setting up an expensive battle with the pharmaceutical industry.

Kaiser Permanente is preparing to instill its integrated model for high-quality care at sustainable costs in the minds of future physicians. The Oakland, Calif.-based system plans to open an independent medical school in Southern California, with its first class expected to enroll in fall 2019.

In another sign that a 2014 truce is in danger, a powerful union for health care workers has launched a $3 million fund that could fund a new ballot battle with hospitals.