It can be difficult to get the day started on Wednesdays, given the middle-of-the-week slump. But this morning, the healthcare industry woke up to multiple major developments that cut through the midweek burnout.

The government shut down at midnight last night after Republicans and Democrats on Capitol Hill failed to breach an impasse over extending subsidies for Affordable Care Act plans. More than 32,000 HHS employees will be furloughed as a result, while operations at the federal health department will be pared back to what’s mandatory or funded by other means.

Broader Medicare coverage of telehealth services and a popular CMS hospital-at-home program also expired without an extension from Congress, lapses that experts say will disrupt patient care and provider operations.

Finally, investors got their first full look at Medicare Advantage plans for 2026 after the CMS updated its website that helps senior compare coverage. The sector has been bracing for slimmer benefits and higher costs for enrollees as major insurers sacrifice growth for profitability.

The CMS didn’t publish star ratings, something insurance market watchers are also eagerly awaiting. Analysts expect that to happen around Oct. 9. It’s nice to know we still have some news to look forward to.

Happy Hump Day,