Marco Island suicide, attempts prompt mental health discussion: "A Marco Island woman died Dec. 13 after jumping off the S.S. Jolley Bridge in an apparent suicide. Nine days later, Marco Island police officers saved a man who they said was attempting to do the same. On Jan. 4, police officers responded to a report of a gunshot wound they later determined was self-inflicted." -   Naples Daily News

Nurse shortages in Florida might be reduced by new multi-state license: "Florida nurses can apply now for a multi-state license, which might boost their employment options. In turn, the state's decision to make it easier for out-of-state nurses to come to Florida could reduce workforce shortages, especially during the busier winter months." - Naples Daily News

New spending stopgap measure stalls Medicare extenders, DSH delay: "While the Senate came to an agreement to reopen the government, the path forward for Medicare extenders and DSH payment cut delays isn't clear." - Modern Healthcare

Few doctors see Medicare pay bumps for care quality: "Less than 2% of the 1.1 million clinicians billing Medicare this year will receive a raise stemming from a pay-for-performance program that rewards doctors for improving patients' quality of care." - Modern Healthcare 

MedPAC votes 14-2 to junk MIPS, providers angered: "An influential policy organization that advises Congress on Medicare issues has voted to repeal and replace MIPS under MACRA. Providers immediately criticized the move to end the program and what the panel wants to replace it with." - Modern Healthcare