California Healthline

Legislature Takes Action on Several Health-Related Bills

Thu, 31 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

This week, the California Senate and Assembly took action on a variety of health-related bills. Friday is the deadline for the state Legislature to pass legislation out of its house of origin. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert" et al.

Survey: Medi-Cal Users Praise Program, Struggle To Obtain Primary Care

Thu, 31 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new survey finds that while 90% of Medi-Cal beneficiaries have a positive perception of the program, some have trouble finding primary care physicians. According to the survey, beneficiaries use the emergency department twice as much as other insured residents. Los Angeles Times et al.

Field Poll Finds Voter Support for Tobacco Tax Increase Is Slipping

Thu, 31 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new Field Poll finds that voter support is declining for Proposition 29, a June ballot initiative that would raise tobacco taxes by $1 per pack to fund research on smoking-related conditions. The poll finds that about half of likely voters support the tax. Sacramento Bee, Los Angeles Times.

House Approves Bill To Reauthorize, Modify FDA User Fee Programs

Thu, 31 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, the House passed a bill to reauthorize FDA's prescription drug and medical device user-fee programs. House and Senate leaders aim to reconcile their versions of the legislation and send a final bill to President Obama by July 4. The Hill's "Floor Action Blog" et al.

13.5M U.S. Residents Have High Deductibles, Health Savings Accounts

Thu, 31 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A report from America's Health Insurance Plans finds that about 13.5 million U.S. residents are enrolled in a high-deductible health plan paired with a health savings account. The number of enrollees in such plans has increased by 18.4% since 2011. Kaiser Health News/NPR et al.

Poll: Calif. Voters Back Tax Hike, Are Concerned by Use of Funding

Wed, 30 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new poll shows that many registered voters support a compromise tax hike plan by Gov. Brown. However, the poll finds that support for the plan decreased when respondents were told that new tax revenue might not support state services. Los Angeles Times.

Dentist Shortage Leading to Emergencies, Tooth Decay in Rural Counties

Wed, 30 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

As a result of dentist and specialist shortages, residents in rural California counties are experiencing high rates of tooth decay and preventable dental emergencies. Experts say clinicians face financial barriers to practicing in rural areas because reimbursement rates are lower. HealthyCal.

Health Care District’s Funds for Recruitment Program Going Unused

Wed, 30 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

After nearly a decade, no physicians have completed Peninsula Health Care District's physician recruitment program, which offers loan forgiveness. Critics say the hundreds of thousands of dollars allocated for the program could have been used to fund community health programs. Bay Citizen.

Amended FDA User Fee Bill Would Cut Deficit by $370M, CBO Estimates

Wed, 30 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Congressional Budget Office estimates that an amended House bill to reauthorize FDA's prescription drug and medical device user-fee programs would cut the federal deficit by $370 million. The House is set to vote on the bill later today. The Hill's "Healthwatch," CQ Today.

FDA Warns Physicians, Consumers About Sales of Counterfeit Adderall

Wed, 30 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, FDA warned doctors and consumers that online counterfeiters are selling fake versions of Teva Pharmaceuticals' Adderall, which treats attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. The agency said the fake pills are ineffective and could be harmful. Los Angeles Times et al.

Rural Kids' Access to Health Care in Question Under Brown's Plan

Tue, 29 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Physicians, lawmakers and health care advocates are concerned that a proposal in Gov. Brown's revised budget plan to shift all children in the Healthy Families program to Medi-Cal could cause treatment gaps for kids in rural communities. California Watch.

CalPERS Must Offer Long-Term Care to Same-Sex Couples, Judge Rules

Tue, 29 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A federal judge has ruled that CalPERS must give state workers' same-sex spouses or domestic partners access to a long-term care insurance plan. Experts say that more than 2,900 state workers in same-sex relationships have sought such coverage. Sacramento Bee et al.

Inmates With Mental Illnesses Wait Months in Jail Before Treatment

Tue, 29 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Advocates for prison inmates are criticizing the practice of holding individuals with mental illnesses in jail for months until beds at state hospitals become available. Certain inmates have waited three to six months in jail before receiving treatment, experts say. Sacramento Bee.

Insurers Shifting Greater Cost Share of Specialty Rx Drugs to Enrollees

Tue, 29 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Many health insurers have shifted costly specialty drugs into new categories, requiring members to pay a larger share of their cost. Lawmakers in California and other states have introduced bills that would cap out-of-pocket expenses for such specialty drugs. Los Angeles Times.

House GOP's Summer Strategy Involves Repeal of Health Reform Law

Tue, 29 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

House Majority Leader Eric Cantor says House Republicans plan to keep working to dismantle the health reform law as part of their summer strategy. According to Cantor, the House could vote by June 4 on two bills to repeal provisions of the overhaul. The Hill's "Healthwatch" et al.

Four Northern Calif. VA Facilities Cited for Health, Safety Issues

Fri, 25 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities in Northern California have been cited for a total of 25 health and safety violations by the U.S. Department of Labor. About half of the violations were considered "serious." Contra Costa Times, San Francisco Chronicle.

Poll: Brown's Approval Rating Dips, But Support for Tax Hike Plan Rises

Fri, 25 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A recent poll shows that Gov. Brown's job approval rating has fallen since April, but support for a compromise tax hike plan by Brown and backers of the "Millionaires Tax" has increased slightly. According to the poll, 56% of likely voters now support the plan. Sacramento Bee.

Senate Approves Bill To Reauthorize, Modify FDA User-Fee Programs

Fri, 25 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Senate approved in a 96-1 vote a bill that would reauthorize and modify FDA's prescription drug and medical device user-fee programs. The legislation also would create fees to review generic drugs and less-costly biotechnology products. New York Times et al.

CDC: States Spend Small Share of Tobacco Funds on Anti-Smoking Efforts

Fri, 25 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new CDC report finds that states spent just 3% of the nearly $244 billion they collected in tobacco settlement funds on anti-smoking efforts. It notes that cigarette sales and smoking rates declined faster when states like California spent more on anti-tobacco programs. Washington Times et al.

California Hospital News Roundup for the Week of May 25, 2012

Fri, 25 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Workers at Children's Hospital & Research Center Oakland have voted in favor of representation by the National Union of Healthcare Workers. Rady Children's Hospital San Diego seeks to launch a heart transplant program this year, which could make it the fifth California hospital to offer the surgery for children.

Fewer Infants Exposed to TB at Calif. Hospitals, Investigators Say

Thu, 24 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Health officials have lowered their estimate of newborns exposed to tuberculosis at two California hospitals from 35 to 25 infants. The facilities also are testing their workers for the infection. Capital Public Radio's "KXJZ News," AP/Sacramento Bee.

Voter Support Declining for Tobacco Tax Hike Initiative, Poll Finds

Thu, 24 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new poll finds that voter support for Proposition 29 has decreased from 67% in March to 53% this month. Experts say that advertisements funded by tobacco companies have contributed to the decline. AP/Sacramento Bee, San Jose Mercury News.

Judge Denies Release of TB Patient Jailed for Halting His Treatment

Thu, 24 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A San Joaquin County Superior Court judge has denied the release of a tuberculosis patient who was arrested last week for failing to comply with TB treatment orders. The patient has entered a not guilty plea, and the trial is set to begin in June. Stockton Record.

Study: Most Individual Health Plans Fall Short of Reform Law Standards

Thu, 24 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new Health Affairs study finds that more than half of all currently available individual health insurance policies do not meet the coverage standards established by the health reform law. However, most job-based health plans meet the federal standards. New York Times et al.

Reform Law Expected To Restrict Undocumented Residents' Care Access

Thu, 24 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The federal health reform law's planned expansion of health coverage is likely to strain the U.S. health care system and hinder access to care for undocumented residents. Some communities, like Los Angeles, are testing ways to extend care to undocumented residents. Politico.

California's 2010 Infant Mortality Rate Hits Record Low, Data Show

Wed, 23 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Department of Public Health data show that California's infant mortality rate fell to 4.7 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2010, a record low for the state. Officials attribute the decline in part to lower rates of premature births. U-T San Diego et al.

Infants in Sacramento, Solano County Hospitals Exposed to Tuberculosis

Wed, 23 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Sacramento and Solano county and hospital officials have warned the parents of 35 newborns that their infants were exposed to tuberculosis. Officials say that an individual with TB visited neonatal intensive care units at two area hospitals in March and April. Sacramento Bee, Capital Public Radio's "KXJZ News."

Brown's Reorganization Plan Approved by Little Hoover Commission

Wed, 23 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Little Hoover Commission has endorsed Gov. Brown's plan to reorganize the state government. The plan would reduce the number of state agencies from 12 to 10 by consolidating some departments and eliminating others. Sacramento Bee's "The State Worker," Imperial Valley News.

Experts: Reform Law's Changes Will Continue To Affect Health System

Wed, 23 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

During a forum yesterday, a senator and an Obama administration official said that several delivery system changes stemming from the health reform law are likely to remain even if the Supreme Court strikes down the overhaul. New York Times, Government Executive.

Reid Calls for Lawmakers To Reach Agreement on FDA User Fee Legislation

Wed, 23 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid urged lawmakers to reach a deal on amendments to a bill to reauthorize FDA's prescription drug and medical device user fee programs. If a deal is not reached, Reid said he will move on to other legislation. The Hill's "Floor Action Blog" et al.

Democrats Likely To Spurn Four Key Proposals in Brown's Budget

Tue, 22 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Democratic lawmakers likely will disagree with four key proposals in Gov. Brown's revised budget plan that call for cutting CalWORKs, In-Home Supportive Services, child care subsidies and financial aid for certain college students. San Francisco Chronicle.

Calif. Veterans Express Frustration Over Claims Processing Backlog

Tue, 22 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

At a recent forum, veterans highlighted claims processing problems at the Department of Veterans Affairs' Oakland office. It takes the office an average of 320 days to process disability claims, and nearly 40% of disability claims were processed incorrectly, according to an audit. Los Angeles Times.

GAO Report: Overhaul's Tax Credit Not Appealing to Small Businesses

Tue, 22 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new Government Accountability Office report finds that the health reform law's small business tax credit is not large enough to incentivize employers to offer health benefits. According to the report, the credit was claimed by 170,300 employers in 2010, far short of estimates. The Hill's "Healthwatch" et al.

Poll Finds Most Voters See Health Care Costs as Important Concern

Tue, 22 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A poll finds that 84% of U.S. voters say the cost of health care is an extremely or very important concern. When asked about which presidential candidate would be better able to control health care costs, 51% chose President Obama and 44% chose Mitt Romney. Politico et al.

Database Aims To Help Researchers Analyze Medical Care Costs

Tue, 22 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Health Care Cost Institute is compiling a database containing more than 3 billion de-identified medical claims from more than 33 million individuals. The project aims to help researchers conduct large-scale analyses of information on medical costs. Washington Post, Politico.

Study: Reform Law Would Have Added 100,000 State Jobs in 2010

Mon, 21 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new Bay Area Council Economic Institute report finds that the federal health reform law would have contributed $4.4 billion to California's economy and generated nearly 100,000 jobs in the state if it were fully implemented in 2010. KPCC's "KPCC News," BACEI release.

Calif. Lawmakers Push Reform Bills as State Awaits SCOTUS Decision

Mon, 21 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

California lawmakers are trying to advance several bills that would implement health reform even if the U.S. Supreme Court decides to strike down the overhaul. One proposed measure would establish a state-run Basic Health Plan for low-income residents. Sacramento Business Journal.

LAO Says Budget Deficit Likely Higher Than Gov. Brown's Recent Estimate

Mon, 21 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new report by the Legislative Analyst's Office projects that the state budget deficit is larger than Gov. Brown's recent estimate of $15.7 billion. LAO indicated that the deficit could be higher than $17 billion. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert," Sacramento Business Journal.

Medical Price Increases Fuel Rise in Health Care Spending, Report Finds

Mon, 21 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A Health Care Cost Institute study finds that health care spending by privately insured U.S. residents rose between 2009 and 2010, primarily because the prices of services increased. Prices for some medical services rose about five times faster than overall inflation. Politico et al.

Mobile Technology Poses Security Risks to Health Data, According to DHS

Mon, 21 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A report from the Department of Homeland Security finds that the health care industry's adoption of mobile technology poses certain security risks to patient data. The report offers recommendations to boost health care organizations' data security. Government Computer News et al.

CalPERS Increases Contributions for State Employee Pensions

Fri, 18 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

CalPERS has approved a 5.7% increase in payment rates for state worker pensions in the next fiscal year. The cost increase will be implemented over two years, a strategy that Gov. Brown calls "not a prudent decision." Sacramento Business Journal et al.

California Nursing Board Accuses Training School Operators of Fraud

Fri, 18 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The state Board of Registered Nursing is seeking to revoke the licenses of nurses who operated a training school that was not approved by the board or accredited. Pending legislation would allow the board to order such schools to cease operations. California Watch.

Senate Begins Debate on Measure To Reauthorize FDA User-Fee Programs

Fri, 18 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Senate has started debating a bill to reauthorize and modify FDA's prescription drug and medical device user-fee programs. Some stakeholders discussed adding language to the bill to create a national system to track prescription drug safety. The Hill's "Healthwatch" et al.

Boehner: House GOP Is Committed to Repeal of Health Reform Law

Fri, 18 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, House Speaker John Boehner said House Republicans are committed to repealing the entire federal health reform law if the U.S. Supreme Court upholds all or part of the overhaul. According to Boehner, a full repeal of the law would boost the troubled economy. Politico et al.

California Hospital News Roundup for the Week of May 18, 2012

Fri, 18 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Los Angeles Times has obtained internal reports from Metropolitan State Hospital showing lapses in patient care. Santa Clara Valley Medical Center has stopped construction on a support building after workers discovered a cemetery on the hospital grounds.

Steinberg Rebuffs S&P's Criticism of Accessing Budget Reserves

Thu, 17 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Senate President Pro Tempore Darrell Steinberg continues to support using state budget reserves to avoid making deep cuts to social services programs, despite Standard & Poor's call for lawmakers to avoid the strategy. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert."

Man's Arrest for Halting His Own Tuberculosis Treatment Spurs Debate

Thu, 17 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Certain San Joaquin County officials support the arrest of a Stockton man who stopped taking his tuberculosis medication, while some health law experts deride the prosecution. County officials say the arrest was made as a last resort, but certain experts say prosecution sends the wrong message. AP/Sacramento Bee.

LAO: Oversight of Prison Health Care Could End Without Construction

Thu, 17 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A Legislative Analyst's Office report finds that federal oversight of California's prison health care system could end without the state expanding certain health care facilities. LAO says California would assume $76 million in debt by completing construction. KPCC's "KPCC News."

Senate Rejects Several Republican-Supported FY 2013 Budget Plans

Thu, 17 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Senate voted down five different Republican-backed fiscal year 2013 budget resolutions yesterday. Lawmakers noted that Congress is unlikely to approve any budget proposals that include changes to Medicare and Medicaid until 2013. The Hill's "Floor Action Blog" et al.

HHS Issues Guidance, Releases New Details on Health Plan Exchanges

Thu, 17 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, HHS said states have until Nov. 16 to submit plans for operating health insurance exchanges under the federal health reform law. HHS also released guidance on how it will facilitate exchanges for states that opt not to administer their own marketplaces. Reuters et al.

LAO Revenue Forecast Close to Gov. Brown's Latest Estimates

Wed, 16 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Legislative Analyst's Office says its revenue projections for California are similar to those included in Gov. Brown's revised budget plan. Previously, LAO had found the projections included in Brown’s initial budget plan to be too optimistic. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert."

S&P Rejects Lawmaker's Proposed Strategy To Access Budget Reserves

Wed, 16 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Standard & Poor's recommends that lawmakers forgo Senate President Pro Tempore Darrell Steinberg's idea to use state budget reserves to aid social service programs. S&P says that lawmakers should pursue "credible" budget solutions. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert."

California Issues Fewer Credentials for School Nurses, Report Finds

Wed, 16 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new report finds that the number of credentials issued for public school nurses decreased by 26.4% between the 2006-2007 and 2010-2011 school years. According to the report, the number of nurses employed in public schools declined by 13.3% during that time. California Watch.

Insurers To Lose $1T if Reform Law Is Struck Down, Report Finds

Wed, 16 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

If the U.S. Supreme Court overturns the federal health reform law, health insurers stand to lose nearly $1 trillion in new revenue and nearly $174 billion in profits between 2013 and 2020, according to a recent report by Bloomberg Government. The Hill's "Healthwatch" et al.

Study: Health Care Costs Rising for Families With Job-Based PPO Coverage

Wed, 16 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A Milliman study finds that the average annual health care costs for a family of four with an employer-sponsored preferred provider plan is $20,728, a 6.9% increase from 2011. The study found that workers on average pay about 41% of those costs. Los Angeles Times, CQ HealthBeat.

Brown Calls for Deeper Health Program Cuts in Revised Budget

Tue, 15 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Gov. Brown has released his revised budget plan for the next fiscal year. The plan includes deeper Medi-Cal and In-Home Supportive Services cuts than his original plan and maintains proposed cuts to welfare and child care programs. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert" et al.

Calif. Lawmakers Reject Plan Curbing Nursing Home, Hospital Checks

Tue, 15 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Budget subcommittees in the Assembly and Senate have rejected a budget proposal that would have curbed inspections of hospitals’ and nursing homes’ compliance with state laws. Patient safety advocates are worried that the proposal will resurface. California Watch.

Obama Administration Unveils Plan To Combat Alzheimer's Disease

Tue, 15 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Obama administration has announced a plan aimed at finding an effective way to treat and prevent Alzheimer's disease by 2025. Officials also launched a website offering information for families and caregivers of people with Alzheimer's disease. AP/San Francisco Chronicle et al.

Bill Would Offer Benefits to Domestic Partners of Federal Employees

Tue, 15 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Tomorrow, a Senate panel is scheduled to mark up legislation that would extend certain health benefits to domestic partners of gay and lesbian federal employees. Meanwhile, more companies are offering health benefits to workers' domestic partners. Washington Times et al.

Obama, Romney Attempt To Distinguish Rival Medicare Reform Plans

Tue, 15 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In recent months, President Obama and Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney have tried to differentiate their plans to reform Medicare. The two also have accused each other of supporting plans that would effectively dismantle the program. New York Times.

California Budget Deficit Has Grown to $16B, Brown Says

Mon, 14 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Gov. Brown has announced that California's budget deficit has increased to $16 billion, significantly higher than the $9.2 billion he estimated in January. The governor plans to release his May budget revision today. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert" et al.

Unions at Odds Over Bill That Would Arm Mental Hospital Police Officers

Mon, 14 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The California Statewide Law Enforcement Association supports an Assembly bill that would allow police officers at state mental hospitals to carry guns. However, the California Association of Psychiatric Technicians says the bill is potentially hazardous. Sacramento Bee.

Personal IHSS Data Missing From Mailed Shipment, Officials Say

Mon, 14 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

State officials say that personal data on In-Home Supportive Services workers and care recipients might have been compromised when microfiche containing Social Security numbers went missing from a shipment sent by mail. Los Angeles Times, AP/San Jose Mercury News.

HHS Releases Final Rule on Health Reform Law's Premium Rebate Checks

Mon, 14 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new final rule requires health insurers to inform consumers that their premium rebates are a result of the federal health reform law. The requirement is seen as part of an attempt by the Obama administration to boost the law's popularity. Wall Street Journal, Time's "The Page."

Many GOP Lawmakers Not Moving Forward on Health Plan Exchanges

Mon, 14 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Several Republican governors and state lawmakers are not taking steps to implement health insurance exchanges required by the health reform law. Some lawmakers say they are awaiting the Supreme Court's decision on the overhaul before moving forward. Washington Post et al.

Gov. Brown Removes Physician in Prop. 29 Ad From Health Board

Fri, 11 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Gov. Brown has rescinded the appointment of a physician to a state health board after she appeared in a tobacco industry-funded advertisement criticizing Proposition 29, which would increase the state's tobacco sales tax. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert."

Brown Submits Voter Signatures Supporting Compromise Tax Plan

Fri, 11 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Gov. Brown has begun submitting voter signatures in support of a compromise tax hike plan. He is expected to submit a total of about 1.5 million signatures statewide to qualify the measure for the November ballot. He said the tax plan will help the state avoid dire cuts. Sacramento Bee.

Reconciliation Measure Cutting Entitlement Spending Clears House

Fri, 11 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The House has approved a budget reconciliation bill that would override automatic spending cuts and reduce entitlement spending. The bill would cut the federal Medicaid match to states and impose stricter eligibility standards. Washington Times et al.

HHS Releases Final Rules To Ease Regulations for Health Care Providers

Fri, 11 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, HHS released two final rules designed to eliminate unnecessary, outdated and duplicative regulations on health care providers. Federal officials estimate that the changes would generate more than $5 billion in savings over five years. The Hill's "Healthwatch" et al.

California Hospital News Roundup for the Week of May 11, 2012

Fri, 11 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The California Department of Public Health has cited Shasta Regional Medical Center for repeated breaches of patient confidentiality in 2011. Children's Hospital & Research Center in Oakland has received $3 million in grant funding that the facility will use for renovations.

Report: California Health Care Spending Grows, Rate Slows

Thu, 10 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

California's health care spending increased by nearly 300% from 1991 to 2009, according to a California HealthCare Foundation report. However, the report finds that the pace of growth has decelerated since 2003. Los Angeles Times' "Money & Co."

Brown Administration Plans To Cut State Worker Costs by $750M

Thu, 10 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Officials from Gov. Brown's administration have met with union leaders to discuss strategies for making $750 million in cuts to state worker costs, such as raising worker contributions to health care benefits. Sacramento Bee's "The State Worker," Los Angeles Times' "PolitiCal."

CalHIPSO Helping More Than 7,700 Health Care Providers Adopt EHRs

Thu, 10 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The California Health Information Partnership and Services Organization has signed up more than 7,700 health care providers seeking to adopt electronic health records. It says members have earned more than $65 million in federal incentive payments. Healthcare IT News et al.

Proposed Rule Would Boost Medicaid Pay for Primary Care Physicians

Thu, 10 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, HHS released a proposed rule that would increase Medicaid reimbursements for primary care physicians over two years. Under the proposal, which stems from the health reform law, the federal government would cover the entire cost of the increase. Washington Post et al.

Study: Millions of Small Businesses Not Claiming Reform Law Tax Credits

Thu, 10 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study by Families USA and the Small Business Majority finds that millions of small businesses have not taken advantage of a tax credit under the federal health reform law designed to help them provide health coverage to their employees. The Hill's "Healthwatch," CQ HealthBeat.

Coalition Supports Alternative to Brown’s Plan on Kids’ Health Care

Wed, 09 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A coalition supports an alternate plan to Gov. Brown's proposal to shift nearly one million children from Healthy Families to Medi-Cal. The new plan would move about 200,000 kids who already were expected to shift to Medi-Cal under a federal reform law provision. HealthyCal.

Officials Seek End To Oversight of Prison Health Care in 30 Days

Wed, 09 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

California prison officials have asked a federal judge to end oversight of prison health care in 30 days. According to court filings, officials say the state has "transformed" inmate health care services and has the capacity to maintain the improvements. KPCC's "KPCC News."

Ads Supporting Prop. 29 Aim To Counter Tobacco Industry’s Criticisms

Wed, 09 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Supporters of Proposition 29 have launched advertisements to counter criticisms of the tobacco tax ballot initiative. Meanwhile, opponents of Prop. 29 are outspending supporters $38 million to about $4.7 million. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert," San Francisco Chronicle.

House Subcommittee OKs Measure To Extend FDA User-Fee Programs

Wed, 09 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, a House panel unanimously approved legislation to modify FDA's user-fee programs for drugs and medical devices and extend the programs for an extra five years. The House Energy and Commerce Committee is expected to mark up the bill tomorrow. Politico et al.

Senators Launch Probe Into Drugmakers' Ties With Painkiller Groups

Wed, 09 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Senate Finance Committee has started investigating ties between drugmakers, advocacy groups and organizations that set painkiller prescription guidelines. Meanwhile, the American Pain Foundation said it will dissolve for financial reasons. New York Times, Washington Post.

Study: Reported Charges Vary Between California Hospitals

Tue, 08 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new study finds that reported hospital charges for certain treatments vary among California hospitals. However, hospital officials say that the findings are of little value because the charges do not represent what patients actually pay. Ventura County Star.

Concerns Raised About Access to Primary Care in Sacramento County

Tue, 08 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Health care leaders in Sacramento County are concerned about the lack of primary care services available to low-income and uninsured residents. The county once operated six public clinics but now runs only one, while not-for-profit community clinics are scarce. Sacramento Bee.

Supporters of Munger's Tax Hike Plan Submit 830,000 Signatures

Tue, 08 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Supporters of Molly Munger's tax hike plan have submitted 830,000 signatures to election officials, which should be enough to qualify the initiative for the November ballot. Munger said a cooperative campaign with supporters of a rival tax plan from Gov. Brown is possible. KPCC's "KPCC News," Sacramento Bee.

House Panel OKs Budget Plan That Includes Cuts to Health Care Spending

Tue, 08 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The House Budget Committee has approved a budget plan that would cut funding from Medicaid, the Children's Health Insurance Program and other health initiatives. The full House likely will pass the bill, but the Senate is expected to reject it. AP/San Francisco Chronicle et al.

New Study Predicts That U.S. Obesity Rate Will Rise to 42% by 2030

Tue, 08 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study released at a CDC conference predicts that the percentage of U.S. residents who are obese will reach 42% by 2030. The study notes that the U.S. could save $550 billion in medical costs by maintaining the current obesity rate of 36%. Washington Times et al.

Report: Recession Fuels $70B Jump in Medicaid Spending

Mon, 07 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A Kaiser Family Foundation report finds that Medicaid spending increased from $330 billion in fiscal year 2007 to $400 billion in FY 2010, partly because of increased unemployment and lower incomes during the recession. Reuters.

Brown Order Aims To Improve Californians' Health, Reduce Costs

Mon, 07 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Gov. Brown has issued an executive order establishing a task force to develop strategies for reducing health care costs and improving residents' health. The group will assess ways to curb chronic health conditions and cut hospital readmissions, among other efforts. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert."

Chiropractic Board OKs Regulation Against Using Allergy Laser Therapy

Mon, 07 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Board of Chiropractic Examiners has passed a regulation barring chiropractors from using laser therapy to treat allergy symptoms. Some say the move is an attempt to convince lawmakers to drop a bill that would stop chiropractors from performing any allergy treatments. Sacramento Bee.

Massachusetts Bill Aims To Help Control Rise in Health Care Spending

Mon, 07 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Last week, Massachusetts lawmakers introduced state legislation that aims to control rising health care costs. The bill would establish a growth rate for health care spending and create a quasi-governmental entity to enforce the rate. Boston Globe's "White Coat Notes" et al.

California Health Care Personnel News Update for April 2012

Mon, 07 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Dev GnanaDev plans to resign as medical director of Arrowhead Regional Medical Center at the end of June after serving in the role since 2000. Gov. Brown has appointed Lora Connolly -- former chief deputy director of the California Department of Aging -- as director of the agency.

GOP Declares Opposition to Gov. Brown's Compromise Tax Plan

Fri, 04 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

California GOP leaders have voiced opposition to a compromise tax plan by Gov. Brown and backers of the "Millionaires Tax." Republicans say it would drive businesses and residents out of the state. Sacramento Bee, Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert."

State Assembly Passes Bill To Extend Mental Health Law Until 2017

Fri, 04 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Assembly has passed a bill that would extend until 2017 Laura's Law, which allows court-ordered treatment for certain residents with mental health conditions. However, some lawmakers say that compulsory treatment is counterproductive. AP/U-T San Diego.

NIH Project Encourages Researchers To Find New Uses for Old Drugs

Fri, 04 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

NIH has announced an initiative that seeks to find new uses for old drugs that did not adequately treat one disease but might be effective for another. For the program, drugmakers will provide about 20 compounds to biomedical researchers. AP/San Francisco Chronicle et al.

Obama Administration Keeps Up Promotion of Health Care Overhaul

Fri, 04 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

While Republicans continue to criticize the federal health reform law, the Obama administration has released a steady stream of information touting the law's benefits. The strategy aims to help U.S. residents better understand how the law works. The Hill's "Healthwatch."

California Hospital News Roundup for the Week of May 4, 2012

Fri, 04 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

This week, about 4,500 nurses went on strike at seven Sutter Health hospitals in the San Francisco Bay Area in response to proposals made by Sutter during contract negotiations. Stanford Hospital & Clinics has agreed to a three-year HMO and PPO contract with Blue Shield of California.

SEIU Drops Ballot Initiatives as Part of New Agreement With CHA

Thu, 03 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Service Employees International Union will stop pursuing two proposed ballot initiatives as part of an agreement with the California Hospital Association. In exchange, CHA will help facilitate the union's organizing efforts. Los Angeles Times' "PolitiCal," Payers & Providers.

Calif. Providers Charged in Nationwide Medicare Fraud Crackdown

Thu, 03 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Federal prosecutors have charged more than 100 medical professionals across the U.S. with defrauding Medicare of $452 million. Eight of those individuals are located in the Los Angeles area and are accused of bilking Medicare of $20 million. Payers & Providers, Los Angeles Times.

L.A. Program Provides Care to Undocumented Restaurant Workers

Thu, 03 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In Los Angeles, a community clinic and a restaurant workers group have launched a cooperative to offer health coverage to undocumented residents working in restaurants. The program is believed to be the first of its kind in the U.S. Los Angeles Times.

U.S. Leads in Health Care Spending, Lags in Certain Care Quality Indicators

Thu, 03 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A Commonwealth Fund report finds that the U.S. spends more on health care than 12 other industrialized countries. However, compared with the other countries, the U.S. has higher mortality rates for asthma and diabetes-related amputations, the report notes. Politico et al.

Medicare Expected To Face Payment Issues if Reform Struck Down

Thu, 03 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

According to the Obama administration, Medicare could face payment disruptions if the Supreme Court strikes down the health reform law. Former CMS administrators Don Berwick and Tom Scully disagree on how the ruling would affect payments. AP/San Francisco Chronicle.