Behind the Headlines is a publication of the Texas Hospital Association designed to help readers make sense of the complex healthcare news and policy environment. It provides hospital-relevant news summaries, the impact of health policies in local communities and analysis of the key issues shaping care delivery in Texas.
Contact: Carrie Williams, Chief Communications Officer, 512/465-1052
Seasonal Conflusion
August 17, 2026
A new Executive Order with updated vaccine recommendations to the childhood schedule risks creating confusion and access issues for families looking to immunize, threatening protection for communities statewide.
Measles Resurgence
August 10, 2026
Measles is making a comeback in Texas, and declining vaccination rates are putting children, communities and hospital resources at greater risk.
Coverage Should Be Elementary
August 3, 2026
Tens of thousands of eligible Texas children have lost health coverage after Medicaid unwinding, putting preventive care, healthy development and long-term outcomes at risk.
How Does “Free” Care Get Paid?
July 27, 2026
Texas hospitals provide billions in care without expecting payment in return. As more families struggle to afford healthcare, who keeps the safety net standing?
Health Cost Report Card
July 20, 2026
Rising expenses, stronger demand and fewer Texans maintaining Marketplace coverage are creating new financial challenges for Texas hospitals statewide.