HCA doctors say its cost-cutting is endangering Appalachian patients — a warning for the whole U.S. health care system

Since HCA took over the Mission hospital system in North Carolina in 2019, there's been a staffing crisis and an exodus of doctors. It's a stunning fall from grace for Mission, a formerly nonprofit system with a reputation for quality that once drew esteemed doctors from across the country. Read more.

By Tara Bannow

Molly Ferguson for STAT

Colon cancer prevention paradox: Higher-risk patients pay more for colonoscopy

A "screening" colonoscopy has no copay. For those at higher risk for colorectal cancer, a "surveillance" colonoscopy can cost thousands. To many patients, it can feel like they are being asked to make an impossible choice: protect their financial health and risk getting life-threatening, late-stage colorectal cancer, or pay up repeatedly for peace of mind. Read more.

By Angus Chen

Christine Kao/STAT

With biotech in a slump, the industry's job market is upside down

The biotech industry has gone from what some observers called a "sugar high" to a downturn that is making it difficult for both public and private companies to raise money. A major index of biotech stocks has fallen nearly 60% since peaking in early 2021, and countless companies have downsized, merged, or simply gone out of business. Read more.

By Jonathan Wosen and Damian Garde

More great reads from STAT this week

People with congenital heart disease are living longer — but facing new threat of heart failure
Blood cancers may arise from CAR-T cells, but experts think only in very rare cases
A growing number of U.S. states, cities, and counties are suing insulin makers and PBMs
Opinion: Manufacturers need to be more open about a dangerous Alzheimer's drug side effect
Patients want test results now, and radiologists need time to explain. Can they meet in the middle?