JAMA Editors' Summary Whole Brain vs Stereotactic Radiation for Brain Metastases, Type 1 Diabetes Review, Physician Well-Being, and more
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Feb 20, 2026 They compare whole brain vs stereotactic radiation and highlight effects on symptoms and quality of life. Medicare trends get attention, including rising forced disenrollment and a new billing add-on code. Clinical updates cover pertussis in adults, microplastics for patients, and a comprehensive review of type 1 diabetes and individualized therapy approaches.
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Stereotactic Radiation Improves Symptoms
- Stereotactic radiation targeting visible brain metastases improves patient-reported symptoms and daily function compared with whole brain radiation with hippocampal avoidance.
- The randomized Phase III trial supports stereotactic radiation to reduce symptom burden and enhance quality of life.
Medicare Advantage Forced Exits Are Rising
- Forced disenrollment from Medicare Advantage rose from about 1% (2018–2024) to almost 7% in 2025 and may reach 10% in 2026.
- This trend raises concerns about alignment between CMS, policymakers, and beneficiary interests.
G-2211 Billing Saw Robust Early Uptake
- Medicare's G-2211 add-on code had rapid early uptake in 2024 with 24 million codes billed for 10.6 million patients, totaling $394 million.
- Specialists billed 43% of codes, primary care 40%, and other clinicians about 17% in the first year.