Global Health Insurance and Access: Key Developments and Policy Trends
Vaccines and Health Insurance Access: Reviewing 2025’s Top Health News
15 Dec 2025
WBUR reporters and health experts reviewed the most significant health stories of 2025, focusing on vaccine policy changes and shifts in health insurance coverage in Massachusetts. The discussion highlighted how these developments affect residents’ access to care and public health outcomes. The segment emphasized the ongoing impact of policy decisions on both preventive services and insurance affordability. Overall, it provided a year-end perspective on key trends shaping local health care.
Bills Aim to Promote Telemedicine and Regulate AI in New Hampshire Health Insurance
15 Dec 2025
New Hampshire Rep. Alicia Gregg filed two bills targeting the state’s health insurance practices. House Bill 1406 would prevent insurers from using AI to override doctors’ clinical decisions, allowing AI only for fraud detection or audits, with violations subject to state review. House Bill 1232 would require insurers to reimburse providers equally for telemedicine and in-person services, addressing access challenges, particularly in rural areas. Both bills aim to ensure patient access and maintain provider incentives, with proposed implementation in January 2027. These measures reflect growing efforts nationwide to regulate AI in insurance and expand telehealth coverage.
Poll: Most Americans Satisfied with Health Insurance, but a Quarter Report Denials or Delays
14 Dec 2025
A new NBC News poll shows that 82% of Americans are satisfied with their health insurance, with the highest satisfaction among older adults and those on Medicare or Medicaid. However, about 24% reported experiencing coverage delays or denials in the past two years, with women and private insurance holders slightly more affected. Younger adults, college graduates, and independents were more likely to be dissatisfied. Views on the Affordable Care Act remain divided, with most Democrats and younger Americans wanting to keep it, while many Republicans and older men support repeal. The poll also found that more Americans trust Democrats than Republicans to manage health care costs.
Indonesia Advances Universal Health Coverage While Addressing Remaining Gaps
12 Dec 2025
Indonesia is making steady progress toward universal health coverage (UHC), with its Service Coverage Index now at 67, reflecting improvements in access and measurement. Maternal and child health and infectious disease services are relatively strong, but gaps remain in family planning, HIV care, and noncommunicable disease management, while rural areas face shortages of health workers. Financial protection has improved, yet about 26.6% of the population, especially the poorest and rural families, still experience high health costs. The government, supported by WHO, is enhancing health data collection and local-level tracking to better target resources and reforms. Focused investments and partnerships aim to ensure equitable access to care for all Indonesians.
