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For retirees, unplanned medical expenses can upend their budget. Indeed, while about 33% of Americans age 65 or older have at least $6,000 set aside for medical bills, 27% have less than $500 in savings for that purpose, according to a survey from MedicareGuide.com. Nearly half (46%) in that age group — who generally rely on Medicare for coverage — are very or somewhat concerned that a major health situation in their household could lead to medical debt or bankruptcy. (O'Brien, 11/2)

One of the four retail pharmacy companies on trial for their alleged roles in fostering an opioid crisis in two Ohio counties announced Friday it had settled lawsuits filed by 10 government entities in the state that have accused the companies of creating a public nuisance. The settlement by Pittsburgh-based Giant Eagle includes Lake and Trumbull counties, whose federal lawsuits are being heard in a bellwether trial in Cleveland that began in early October. The other defendants on trial are CVS, Walgreens and Walmart. (Gillispie, 10/29)