Department of Health Services, Policy & Practice
Announcements
Recent News and announcements
See all news and announcements from HSPP
April 16, 2026
News from SPH
When UnitedHealth bought doctor practices, Medicare Advantage spending rose but care stayed the same, study finds
The findings of the working paper offer a behind-the-scenes look at what can happen as major health insurers expand into owning and operating physician practices.
April 2, 2026
News from SPH
Distance to opioid treatment programs limits methadone access in many U.S. jails
A new study highlights how geography and regulations can block a lifesaving treatment for people in custody.
March 31, 2026
News from SPH
Jada Owens: Pivot to policy
After witnessing stark racial disparities in Alzheimer’s care, Jada Owens pivoted from medicine to policy. The Brown Health Equity Scholar is headed to D.C. for a one-year Winston Fellowship to help shape the future of U.S. health care.
March 30, 2026
News from SPH
Researchers identify the keys to preventing hospitalizations during nursing home flu outbreaks
Using new statistical methods, researchers from Brown University find that rapid treatment of at least 70% of residents with antivirals within 48 hours reduces hospitalizations by 21%.
March 26, 2026
News from SPH
Information Futures Lab welcomes 2026 visiting fellows
The Information Futures Lab at Brown University has announced its 2026 visiting fellows, a group of interdisciplinary leaders dedicated to addressing the global information crisis and building healthier communication networks.
March 5, 2026
News from Brown
White House autism briefing linked to swift shifts in prescribing patterns, study finds
A new study showed a significant decrease in acetaminophen use during pregnancy and a surge in leucovorin prescriptions after a September 2025 announcement that included comments by the president and head of the FDA.
