Morning Headlines 7/8/20

House appropriators propose $12B increase for VA’s budget, including big IT boost

The White House’s 2021 budget request includes $105 billion for the VA, including $4.9 billion for IT and $2.6 billion (versus $1.5 billion this year) for its Cerner project.

Fastest growing EMR provider Medfar acquires Plexia, expanding reach to Western Canada

In Canada, EHR vendor Medfar Clinical Solutions acquires competitor Plexia for an undisclosed amount.

Google Maps releases new features to help people navigate coronavirus hot spots

Google Maps users in select areas can now receive alerts as they approach COVID-19 border checkpoints and areas that mandate virus protections such as masks and social distancing, as well as virus-related public transit alerts and guidelines from facilities that offer testing.