California Healthline: Public Health

Lawyer Warns of Risk of Valley Fever Outbreak to Prison Population

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 08:00:00 GMT

A lawyer for California prison inmates has told a federal judge that thousands of prisoners should be moved immediately because of the threat of valley fever. A state lawyer argues that prisoners should not be moved until CDC completes a study of the issue. AP/Sacramento Bee.

California Prison Crowding Back Up, Brown's Lawyers Say

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 08:00:00 GMT

In a monthly progress report to U.S. District courts on Monday, Gov. Brown's lawyers acknowledged that prison crowding has increased. According to the report, the state's 33 prisons are now at more than 150% crowding, while three California prisons are at or near 175% crowding. The lawyers said the governor is "drafting legislative language" aimed at reducing prison crowding. However, the state argues that prison medical care has improved despite the overcrowding. Los Angeles Times' "PolitiCal."

U.S. Surgeon General Regina Benjamin To Resign in July

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 08:00:00 GMT

On Wednesday, U.S. Surgeon General Regina Benjamin announced she will resign in July. HHS confirmed the news, noting Benjamin's influence on "the health and lives of Americans across the country" by leading efforts to promote walking and reduce tobacco use. Politico, Modern Healthcare.

State Public Health Agencies Under Pressure To Curb Growing Valley Fever Threat in California

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Robert Levin of the Ventura County Public Health Department and George Rutherford of UC-San Francisco spoke with California Healthline about the growing concern among state and federal officials over the spread of valley fever in California.

House GOP Questions IRS About Seizure of Health Records in Calif.

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Republicans on a House panel are investigating how the Internal Revenue Service handles confidential medical information. The probe follows a lawsuit alleging that the IRS improperly seized millions of health records in California. The Hill's "Healthwatch."

Sacramento County Reports First West Nile Death in 2013

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 08:00:00 GMT

The California Department of Public Health has announced that a Sacramento County male has become the first human in the state to die from the West Nile virus this year. Details about the man were not released because of health privacy laws. Although the virus had been detected in dead birds in at least six other counties, no human cases -- infected or deceased -- have been reported anywhere else in the state. Sacramento Bee.

Advocates, Providers Seek Plan To Improve Care for Homeless

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Hospital officials and patient advocates in Southern California are seeking to create a plan to improve care for individuals who are homeless and reduce their readmissions. Such patients are among the most frequent users of hospital services in the region. Los Angeles Times.

South L.A. Residents Face Barriers to Dental Care

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Preventive dental care is not "at the front of patients' mind," Frazier Moore -- dental director at Watts Health Clinic in Los Angeles -- said. Cost also is a barrier to dental care. According to a 2013 report from the L.A. County Department of Public Health, nearly 15% of children and 35% of adults in South L.A. did not receive dental care in 2011 because it was unaffordable. KPCC's "On Central."

Panel OKs Audit of Emergency Medical Funds in L.A. County

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 08:00:00 GMT

California's Joint Legislative Audit Committee has ordered an audit into how funds from 2002's Measure B are distributed throughout Los Angeles County to trauma centers and emergency department. The order comes in response to complaints that the funding is not being distributed fairly. Measure B increased county property taxes by three cents per square foot to provide funding for the county's trauma centers and emergency medical services. Los Angeles Times.

UCSF, Duke Seek To Combat Antibiotic Resistance

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Researchers at UC-San Francisco and Duke University will collaborate on a $62 million national research program to combat antibiotic resistance in bacteria. The federally funded program, which will run through 2019, will focus on two particular bacterial strains: methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA, and E. coli. San Francisco Business Times' "BiotechSF."

Poor School Ventilation May Lead to Illness, Study Says

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 08:00:00 GMT

A majority of California elementary classrooms fail to meet the state's minimum ventilation standards, according to a study by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory researchers published in the journal Indoor Air. The state's ventilation standard calls for seven liters of fresh air per person to replace indoor air every second, but the average ventilation rate of the classrooms studied was four liters per second. The researchers said that if classroom ventilation rates met state standards, students' illness-related absences would decline by 3.4%. Sacramento Bee.

Workers Cut Health Visits After Switch to High-Deductible Plan

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 08:00:00 GMT

A new study finds that U.S. workers visited their physicians and pharmacies less after their employers moved them into a high-deductible health plan. The study's authors say beneficiaries might forgo preventive treatment because they are confused about the plan's coverage. Modern Physician.

Counties Need Funding for Public Health, Editorial Says

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 08:00:00 GMT

A Sacramento Bee editorial argues if the state takes "back the bulk of a $1.5 billion block grant that goes to counties for the medically indigent and for public health" as Gov. Brown proposed in his budget plan, "counties will have to choose between covering the remaining uninsured or continuing basic public health functions, when they should be doing both." It concludes, "The Legislature, a co-equal branch of government, needs to jump into the fray, sending the message that public health is important." Sacramento Bee.

Valley Fever Cases Drop in State; Officials Unsure if Trend Will Continue

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Although the number of valley fever cases in California fell by more than 1,000 in 2012, public health officials say it is too early to tell if the trend will continue. The 2012 count still is significantly higher than the number of cases reported in 2002, they say. Stockton Record.

Study: Black, Latino Children Opt for Sugary Fruit Juices

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 08:00:00 GMT

While the overall consumption of sugary sodas among California children has declined, more low-income black and Latino children are consuming sugar-sweetened fruit juices, according to a study by UC-San Francisco researchers published in the journal Academic Pediatrics. Alexis Gomez -- a family nurse practitioner at St. John's Well Child and Family Center -- said that overconsumption of such fruit drinks can increase a young person's chance of becoming obese and developing type 2 diabetes. KPCC's "On Central."

Assembly Rejects Bill on Medical Marijuana Regulation

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 08:00:00 GMT

On Friday, the Assembly voted 35-37 to reject a bill, by Assembly member Tom Ammiano, that would have created a state regulatory agency to establish guidelines around the cultivation, sale and taxation of medical marijuana. Ammiano's office said the measure stalled because of a procedural issue that caused voting to end prematurely. In a release, Ammiano said he would continue to push the measure and work on "getting this to the governor's desk for his signature this year." Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert."

Supreme Court Weighs Whether Non-Nurses Can Give Shots to School Kids

Fri, 31 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

The California Supreme Court has heard arguments about whether the state's Nursing Practice Act requires that licensed nurses administer insulin injections and other medications to children attending public schools. The Supreme Court must deliver a ruling on the issue within 90 days. Los Angeles Times.

CIRM Discusses $70M Plan To Develop 'Alpha Clinics'

Fri, 31 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

During a recent interview with the Los Angeles Times, California Institute for Regenerative Medicine President Alan Trounson announced that CIRM is developing a $70-million plan to establish "alpha clinics" statewide as part of a strategy to cut costs and accelerate enrollment in clinical trials for stem cell therapies. CIRM's governing board is expected to vote on the plan later this year. San Francisco Business Times' "SFBiotech."

Campaign Seeks To Replace Sugary Drinks With Water

Fri, 31 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

First 5 Contra Costa and Healthy and Active Before 5 have collaborated to launch a public advertising campaign to encourage parents in Contra Costa County to substitute sugary drinks with water for toddlers and preschoolers. Leaders of the collaborative said they seek to reduce children's risk for obesity, tooth decay and type 2 diabetes, among other ailments. Contra Costa Times.

Riverside County Criticizes Inmate Health Care Lawsuit

Thu, 30 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Riverside County has asked a judge to dismiss a civil rights class-action lawsuit filed against its jail system by inmates who complained about inadequate health care services. In its response to a cruel-and-unusual punishment complaint filed by four inmates, county officials said that the prisoners had declined to take prescribed mediation, as well as refused or failed to attend medical appointments while in custody. The officials also said that three of the individuals no longer are incarcerated and thus lack standing to sue, further noting that the plaintiffs did not exhaust all available grievance procedures before filing the lawsuit. Riverside Press-Enterprise.

Wal-Mart Pleads Guilty to Waste Dumping in California

Thu, 30 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, Wal-Mart announced that it will pay nearly $82 million to the federal government as part of plea agreements with U.S. attorneys' offices in California and Missouri over criminal charges that the retailer illegally dumped hazardous waste in the two states. Court filings indicate that the dumping occurred in 16 California counties between 2003 and 2005. Reuters, AP/Contra Costa Times.

L.A. Council Opposes City Health Department Proposal

Thu, 30 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, the Los Angeles City Council opposed a 2014 city ballot proposal by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation that would require the city to establish its own health department. City officials said that such a requirement would be difficult to implement and would create problems for public health services in the county. The City Clerk is verifying signatures gathered by the foundation in support of the measure. KPCC's "Represent!"

Agency Fails To Recoup Tax Money Spent on Toxic Cleanup

Thu, 30 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

The California Department of Toxic Substances Control spent $100 million of taxpayer's money over 26 years to clean contaminated property but failed to collect reimbursements from liable polluters. The department also identified a separate $40 million wrapped up in legal matters and another $45 million for which bills were sent but reimbursements were never collected. Sacramento Bee.

Brown's Lawyers Refute Contempt Calls in Prison Overcrowding Case

Thu, 30 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Lawyers for Gov. Brown say he should not be held in contempt for failing to meet a prison population cap, arguing that the Legislature must fix the issue. They say arguments that Brown can direct lawmakers' actions are based on a "flawed assumption." Los Angeles Times' "PolitiCal."

Lawsuit Alleges Inadequate Care at Monterey County Jail

Wed, 29 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Last week, the Monterey County Public Defender's Office filed a lawsuit that aims to improve health care and mental health care services at the Monterey County Jail. The complaint calls the jail's medical and mental health care services "woefully inadequate." It adds, "Severe overcrowding, outdate facilities and chronic under-staffing have created dangerous conditions in the jail, placing prisoners and staff at serious risk of injury and death." Monterey Herald.

Proposed Federal Home Care Rules Could Disrupt IHSS Program

Tue, 28 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Observers say proposed federal home care rules that would require overtime pay for certain caregivers could disrupt California's In-Home Supportive Services Program by raising costs and prompting restrictions on workers' hours. Los Angeles Times.

Several Health-Related Bills Fail To Pass Senate Panel

Tue, 28 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

On Friday, the Assembly Appropriations Committee failed to move several health-related bills from the suspense file. Among the bills that failed to pass were AB 187, which would have added a 10% tax on ammunition sales to support mental health and public safety programs; AB 299, which would have prohibited health plans or insurers from making mail-order pharmacies mandatory; and AB 332, which would have required condoms in the adult film industry. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert."

Campaign Pushes Smokers To Talk With Their Physicians

Tue, 28 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

As part of CDC's Tips From Former Smokers anti-smoking initiative, the agency and five physician groups last week launched a multimedia campaign to encourage smokers to discuss ways to quit with their physicians. The campaign is being funded with $48 million from the Affordable Care Act's Prevention and Public Health Fund. MedPage Today.

Editorial: CIRM Still Struggles With Conflicts of Interest

Tue, 28 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

A Sacramento Bee editorial posits that while Jonathan Thomas -- chair of the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine -- has vowed to avoid conflicts of interest in allocating public dollars for stem cell research, the institute continues to have "serious conflicts." For instance, CIRM's oversight board recently awarded a $20 million grant to StemCells, after the company launched a lobbying effort to win the money and external experts recommended against the award. The authors write, "None of this helps CIRM's reputation in being fair and impartial in spending $3 billion in public funds." Sacramento Bee.

Resistance From Calif. Prison Officials Growing, Kelso Says

Fri, 24 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

In a report filed in federal court on Wednesday, federal receiver J. Clark Kelso -- who is monitoring California's prison health care system -- said state officials have changed their tone toward his orders in cases involving valley fever outbreaks at prisons "from acquiescence bordering on support ... to opposition bordering on contempt." Kelso said that resistance from state officials has increased since a panel of judges denied their request to end a federal prison population cap. A state Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation official said the receiver's report is "less about the health of inmates and more about shifting blame." KPCC's "Represent!"

House Lawmakers Look To Resolve Differences on Immigrant Coverage

Fri, 24 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

House lawmakers seek an agreement on legislation that would allow certain immigrants to purchase health coverage. House members disagree on whether immigrants should be deported if they do not obtain insurance or fail to pay health care bills. Los Angeles Times et al.

CDC: U.S. Adults Continue Unhealthy Behaviors

Fri, 24 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Many U.S. adults continue to take part in unhealthy behaviors -- such as smoking, heavy drinking and sedentary lifestyles -- that have kept the country's overall health from improving, according to a CDC report released Tuesday. The report noted that about 60% of U.S. adults are either overweight or obese. HealthDay/Philadelphia Inquirer.

Opinion: Sugary Drink Tax Would Curb Kids' Obesity

Thu, 23 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Sugary drink consumption has reached "a tipping point," and with 40% of California children overweight, it is time to implement a tax on sweetened beverages, Sen. Bill Monning and Harold Goldstein, executive director of the California Center for Public Health Advocacy, write in a Sacramento Bee opinion piece. They note that SB 622 -- authored by Monning -- will generate $1.7 billion annually for nutrition education and other anti-obesity efforts by levying a penny-per-ounce tax on such drinks. Sacramento Bee.

Number of Elective Surgeries Varies by Region, Study Finds

Thu, 23 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

A California HealthCare Foundation study finds wide variations in the number of elective surgeries by region. CHCF publishes California Healthline. According to the study, several factors, including access to information about the procedures, physician preferences and patient input, contribute to the geographical differences. Los Angeles Times.

Task Force To Examine Developmental Centers

Thu, 23 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Diana Dooley, secretary of the state's Health and Human Services agency, yesterday announced formation of a task force to take a hard look at the viability of closing four developmental centers in California.

"I don't know if the four developmental centers we operate can all close," Dooley said. "I want to hear from the stakeholders with an open mind. Clearly there is a problem with these centers, but we also have to address the fiscal issues. If they cannot operate, then we should look at a timeline for closing them."

Developmental centers in California have come under fire recently -- with allegations of chronic abuse of patients, investigations by multiple government agencies and loss of federal certification. The state has taken a number of steps, particularly at Sonoma Developmental Center, to investigate possible abuses and improve safety of the centers' clients.

Beaumont Council Votes To Ban Marijuana Dispensaries

Wed, 22 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, the Beaumont City Council unanimously voted to ban medical marijuana dispensaries in the city. After voting to extend a moratorium against such businesses -- which was set to expire June 1 -- for 12 more months, the council voted to ban the dispensaries altogether. Before the proposed ban can be implemented, it must come before the council one more time. Riverside Press-Enterprise.

Studies Show Immigrant Health Declining Over Time

Tue, 21 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Several studies have found that the quality of health among immigrants to the U.S. declines progressively the longer they live in the country, in large part because they tend to adopt more Western behaviors, such as smoking, drinking, high-calorie diets and sedentary lifestyles. The studies also show that U.S.-born children of immigrants have lower quality of health and shorter lifespans compared with their parents, even though they generally have higher incomes, better access to higher-quality medical care, nutritious food and opportunities to lead healthier lifestyles. New York Times.

Senate OKs Bill To Regulate Medical Marijuana Shops

Tue, 21 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

On Monday, the California Senate voted 22-12 to approve a bill that would shield medical marijuana dispensaries from prosecution for marijuana sale or possession. Senate President Pro Tempore Darrell Steinberg said the legislation aims to bar criminals from the medical marijuana business and clarify confusion between state and federal law. The bill now moves to the Assembly. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert" et al.

Vehicle Emissions Pose Health Risks at Border Crossings

Mon, 20 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Toxic vehicle emissions pose a significant health risk at border crossings between the U.S. and Mexico, according to a report prepared by scholars from San Diego State University and a team of Mexican researchers. The report recommended that U.S. and Mexico officials devise a strategy to reduce vehicle wait times at border crossings. U-T San Diego.

Health Care Issues High on Latino Community Agenda

Mon, 20 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Health care was a focal point when leaders of Latino community organizations met in Sacramento last week to launch the "California Latino Agenda," a statewide campaign to unite leadership, establish goals and lobby for policy positions.

New Study Finds Transit Cuts Affect Health Care Access

Fri, 17 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

More than 80% of surveyed transit-dependent riders in Alameda County said they have more difficulty getting to their jobs, doctors' offices, schools or social activities, according to a new report from the Alameda County Public Health Department. The survey -- which examined the effects of public transportation cuts -- found that 6% of respondents, most of whom were seniors and people with disabilities, reported less access to health care appointments. KQED's "State of Health".

Opinion: Panel Recognized Charity Care Bill Was Flawed

Fri, 17 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

In a Capitol Weekly opinion piece, Martin Gallegos -- senior vice president and chief legislative advocate for the California Hospital Association -- applauds an Assembly panel's decision last week to move AB 975 -- which would have increased the level of charity care not-for-profit acute care facilities must provide and tightened hospital reporting requirements -- to the Suspense File, noting that the committee recognized "the many negative impacts, including the high unnecessary costs to the state." He concludes, "The demise of AB 975 means we can continue the real work of implementing the [Affordable Care Act]." Capitol Weekly.

House Approves Bill To Fully Repeal the ACA; Senate Passage Unlikely

Fri, 17 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

On Thursday, the House approved legislation to fully repeal the Affordable Care Act. The legislation marks the 37th time that congressional Republicans have sought to repeal, defund or dismantle the ACA. The bill is not expected to pass in the Senate. Washington Post et al.

Assembly Approves Race, Ethnicity in Quality Reporting

Fri, 17 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

The Assembly yesterday passed a bill that requires state officials to include race and ethnicity when compiling health care quality data.

AB 411 by Assembly member Richard Pan (D-Sacramento) would not create any kind of difficulty for state officials, since that data already exists, according to Pan. The point is to make state officials use it, Pan said.

"It's similar to the way MRMIB (Managed Risk Medical Insurance Board) used to analyze Healthy Families data," Pan said. "This is a vital thing that we need to do."

Glendale City Council Moves To Ban Smoking in New Units

Fri, 17 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, the Glendale City Council unanimously moved to ban smoking in all new apartments and condominium units. Under the ban, developers could apply for an outdoor smoking permit by paying about $200, along with a $50 annual fee, and establishing a space that is approved by city officials. Council members say that they do not seek to extend the ban to existing multi-unit facilities because it would be too difficult to enforce. Los Angeles Times.

UC-San Diego Launches Center for Brain Mapping

Thu, 16 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

On Thursday, UC-San Diego launched the Center for Brain Activity Mapping. The center is designed to be a focal point for the Obama administration's Brain Research Through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies Initiative, which could become a long-term, multibillion-dollar effort to develop tools for scientists to simultaneously see and study upward of one million brain cells. U-T San Diego.

Inmates' Lawyers Ask Judges To Find Brown, Beard in Contempt

Thu, 16 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Lawyers for inmates have asked federal judges to find Gov. Brown and prison official Jeffrey Beard in contempt of court for not meeting a prison population cap. Earlier this week, Brown filed a notice of appeal in the U.S. Supreme Court over a decision to uphold the cap. Contra Costa Times.

Programs Seek To Give Respite to Mentally Ill, Caregivers

Tue, 14 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Several newly funded California programs aim to reduce stressors for individuals with mental illnesses or their families. For example, the Del Oro Caregiver Resource Center seeks to reduce the likelihood that caregivers of patients with dementia will develop mental health issues themselves by providing them a temporary break from their circumstances, according to program officials. The programs are funded by the Respite Partnership Collaborative, a private-public partnership of the Sierra Health Foundation, Center for Health Program Management and the Sacramento County Division of Behavioral Health Services. Sacramento Bee.

Editorial Endorses Groups' Plan To Address Uninsured

Tue, 14 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

A Los Angeles Times editorial supports a proposal by Health Access and other not-for-profit groups that would let counties keep funds from sales taxes and vehicle fees while the federal government covers the full cost of the Medi-Cal expansion. Under the plan, counties after three years "would receive a set amount per indigent person they enroll in a HMO-style health care network, with any leftover dollars reverting to the state," the editorial notes. It concludes that the "proposal offers a better approach to public health, while leaving counties free to decide who should be eligible for the benefits," adding, "The state should embrace it." Los Angeles Times.

Calif. Appeals Prison Population Cap to U.S. Supreme Court

Tue, 14 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Gov. Brown's administration has filed a notice of appeal in the U.S. Supreme Court over a prison population cap designed to improve inmate health care. State officials say such care now exceeds constitutional standards. AP/U-T San Diego et al.

Santa Cruz County Sees Rise in Pertussis Vaccination Rates

Mon, 13 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Santa Cruz County officials say that the number of children without vaccinations for whooping cough, or pertussis, has decreased over the past few years. Officials attribute the downward trend to a 2011 state law that required incoming seventh grade students to obtain booster shots for whooping cough starting with the 2011-2012 school year. Santa Cruz Sentinel.

$2-Per-Pack Tobacco Tax Clears First of Legislative Hurdles

Mon, 13 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

A new bill proposing to raise the state tax on tobacco by $2 per pack of cigarettes cleared its first two committees in the California Legislature last week. The tax would push the price of cigarettes beyond $8 a pack and move California from 33rd in the country to fourth in tobacco taxation.

Obama To Tout Health Reform Benefits for Women, Families Today

Fri, 10 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

During a White House Mother's Day-themed event today, President Obama will promote certain Affordable Care Act provisions. Obama is expected to discuss provisions that benefit women and families, such as no-cost cancer screenings. The Hill's "Healthwatch" et al.

Gov. Brown Should Look to Private Prisons, Editorial Says

Fri, 10 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

An Orange County Register editorial argues that a proposal in Gov. Brown's plan to reduce California's prison population that would "house several thousand inmates in California's privately run prisons" deserves support. It notes that "seven private prisons incarcerated state inmates" until about 10 years ago when the state cancelled its contracts with the private facilities "in a bow to the ... state prison guards union." It concludes that Brown should think about sending inmates to private prisons "manned by nonunionized guards" to reach a federally mandated prison population cap. Orange County Register.

Prison Ruling Appeal Will Not End Oversight, Editorial Says

Thu, 09 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

A Sacramento Bee editorial argues that Brown's pledge to appeal a court-ordered reduction to the state's prison population to help improve inmates' medical care might "delay the reckoning" but is "unlikely to end federal oversight." It adds, "All this fighting is sidetracking everybody from the real task -- which should be finding common ground around durable remedies to reduce [the] prison population." Sacramento Bee.

Health Issues, Costs Biggest Concerns for Near-Retirees

Wed, 08 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Health issues and health care costs are the most pressing concerns for U.S. residents near retirement age, according to a new survey by Merrill Lynch. Most survey respondents cited serious health problems as their most significant concern about living a long life. In addition, respondents listed concerns about the sustainability of federal health programs and unexpected medical expenses as their primary concerns about health care costs. Reuters.

Debate Grows Over Bill Aiming To Remove Junk Food From State Offices

Wed, 08 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Debate continues over a bill that would remove unhealthy food from vending machines in state facilities. Proponents say the state should not contribute to rising health costs, while opponents argue that elected officials should not govern what people eat. Los Angeles Times.

Brown Unveils Proposal for California EPA To Reform Proposition 65

Wed, 08 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Gov. Brown has proposed a plan to reform Proposition 65, which aims to block businesses from exposing residents to harmful chemicals. Critics say the law allows unscrupulous lawyers to file claims against businesses that have done nothing wrong. KPCC's 'KPCC News" et al.

Tool Allows Users To View Environment-Related Health Issues

Tue, 07 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

An online mapping tool launched by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment shows which communities across the state are most at risk for health problems caused by the environment. It examines about 1,800 ZIP codes across the state. HealthyCal.

Brown: Delay Moving Prisoners Following Valley Fever Outbreak

Tue, 07 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Gov. Brown's administration has issued a court filing saying that the state should delay moving more than 3,000 inmates from two state prisons because of valley fever-related deaths until CDC completes an investigation of the outbreak. AP/Sacramento Bee.

Editorial: Proposed Soda Tax a 'Multidimensional Mess'

Mon, 06 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

A U-T San Diego editorial argues that a proposed bill that would impose a one-cent-per-ounce tax on certain types of sweetened beverages to raise funds for childhood anti-obesity programs is "a multidimensional mess" that is "built on the historically flawed theory that if you throw money at problems, they will go away." It adds that the measure "breaks the vow ... by many Democratic lawmakers" that there would be no "more broad new taxes" if the Proposition 30 tax hike ballot measure passed. U-T San Diego.

Statewide Soda Tax Gaining Momentum in Calif. Legislature

Mon, 06 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

A new bill proposing a statewide tax on sugary beverages appears to be gaining momentum in the California Legislature. A similar bill stalled three years ago, but with public support growing and a supermajority of Democrats in both houses, supporters predict a different outcome this time.

Snickers, Seriousness Expected for Junk Food Bill

Mon, 06 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

This week, an Assembly committee will take up a plan to change the foods offered in vending machines in state buildings. No more empty calories for state workers, according to the proposed law.

AB 459 by Assembly member Holly Mitchell (D-Los Angeles) is scheduled to be heard Wednesday in the Assembly Committee on Appropriations. A similar bill authored by Mitchell last year stalled in committee. This year's bill earned initial approval two weeks ago in the Business and Professions Committee.

According to Harold Goldstein, executive director of the California Center for Public Health Advocacy, the debate over the bill boils down to a fundamental issue.

DOJ To Appeal Judge's Ruling on Plan B Age Restrictions

Fri, 03 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

On Wednesday, the Department of Justice said it would appeal a federal court order requiring FDA to make emergency contraception available without age or point-of-sale restrictions. DOJ's decision comes shortly after FDA announced that it has approved a drugmaker's request to sell its emergency contraception drug over the counter to people ages 15 and older with proof of age. New York Times, Washington Post's "Wonkblog."

California AG Files Lawsuit Over Lead-Tainted Candies

Fri, 03 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, state Attorney General Kamala Harris filed a lawsuit alleging that several local and national food retailers are selling lead-tainted candies in violation of a state law requiring warning labels on products that contain harmful chemicals. If the retailers and manufacturers are found to be at fault, they could face daily fines of up to $2,500 for each violation. AP/Sacramento Bee.

CDC Gets Involved in Valley Fever Outbreak at Two Calif. Prisons

Thu, 02 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Following the deaths of more than three dozen California prisoners infected with valley fever, CDC has launched an investigation of the fungal disease outbreak. Federal receiver J. Clark Kelso also has ordered about 3,200 high-risk inmates to be relocated. Los Angeles Times et al.

Calif. Indian Health Group To Settle False Claims Allegations

Thu, 02 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, the Office of the U.S. Attorney for Northern California announced that the California Rural Indian Health Board will pay the federal government $532,000 to settle allegations that the organization submitted false claims for substance abuse recovery programs. CRIHB also will surrender $4.6 million in federal grants from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. AP/Sacramento Bee.

Birth Control Mandate: The Most Controversial Regulation Ever?

Wed, 01 May 2013 08:00:00 GMT

The White House called for comment on its proposed contraception mandate. Hundreds of thousands of responses poured in. Why do so many care so much?

State Told To Move Inmates at Risk of Valley Fever

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Federal receiver J. Clark Kelso, charged with monitoring the state's prison health care system, has ordered the relocation of about 3,280 inmates from the Avenal and Pleasant Valley state prisons because they are more susceptible to the deadly fungal infection known as valley fever. The order affects certain racial minorities and those who have serious chronic medical conditions. Los Angeles Times, AP/Washington Post.

CMS Proposes New Data Use To Prepare for Emergencies

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

CMS has proposed adding a new routine use of individual health information to eight federal databases to make it easier to identify medically vulnerable residents during an emergency, according to a Federal Register notice. CMS will accept public comments on the notice for 30 days after its publication on April 23. Health Data Management.

Report Finds 7 of the 10 Most Polluted Cities Are in Calif.

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Seven of the 10 most ozone-polluted U.S. cities are in California, according to the American Lung Association's annual "State of the Air" report. However, the report noted that California had fewer unhealthy ozone days since ALA began conducting its report 14 years ago. KPCC's "KPCC News," Capital Public Radio's "KXJZ News."

L.A. County Opposes Further Prison Realignment Efforts

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

At a Los Angeles Board of Supervisors meeting on Tuesday, L.A. County Chief Probation Officer Jerry Powers said that he and officials from other counties have told the state Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation that they are not willing to accept any more inmates under prison realignment initiatives. The state has been working under a federal overseer to reduce its prison population to help improve inmates' health care. KPCC's "The Latest."

Editorial: State Must Assess Unspent Safe Water Funds

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

A Sacramento Bee editorial argues that a series of bills that would "shift the responsibility for disbursing safe drinking water funds" between state agencies and make it easier for communities to seek federal funding for water treatment efforts do not "relieve the Legislature and [Gov. Brown] of ascertaining how this federal money has gone unspent." Last week, the Environmental Protection Agency said that state officials failed to spend $455 million in federal funding that was allocated to improve local drinking water systems. Sacramento Bee.

Calif. EPA Identifies 10 Areas With Highest Pollution Levels

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

In a report released Tuesday, the California Environmental Protection Agency identified the 10 ZIP codes with the highest pollution levels. Seven of the ZIP codes on the list are in San Joaquin Valley and three are in the Los Angeles region. Cal EPA also unveiled CalEnviroScreen, a comprehensive online tool designed to help planners identify regions with high levels of pollution and direct cleanup funding to them. Sacramento Bee, AP/Stockton Record.

Baby Boomer Suicides in Calif. Climbed in Previous Decade

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

The suicide rate for California residents born between 1946 and 1964 increased by 30% during the decade ending in 2010, according to the state Department of Public Health. The agency found that rates increased significantly in the Sacramento region, where about 140 baby boomers committed suicide in 2010, or 25 of every 100,000 residents in the age group. Sacramento Bee.

UCLA Becomes First UC School To Implement Tobacco Ban

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

On Monday, UCLA implemented a new tobacco-free policy, making it the first UC campus to prohibit tobacco products. UCLA Chancellor Gene Block in a letter to the campus said, "Implementing a tobacco-free policy beginning on Earth Day will underscore the benefits that this new policy will bring to the well-being of our entire community." Los Angeles Times' "L.A. Now."

Officials Say L.A. Meningitis Case Not Tied to Other Cases

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

In a new report, Los Angeles County health officials said the bacterial meningitis that killed a West Hollywood man this month is not linked to any other meningitis cases across the country. Officials hope the new report will alleviate concerns of an outbreak in the area. Los Angeles Times, AP/UT-San Diego.

Some Lawmakers Seek Care for Undocumented Immigrants

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

A plan supported by some lawmakers would use $700 million in savings from the Medi-Cal expansion to offer health services to undocumented immigrants. State officials say Gov. Brown has not taken a public position on the plan. Sacramento Bee, AP/U-T San Diego.

EPA Notice Says Calif. Has Violated the Safe Drinking Water Act

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

EPA has issued a notice saying that California has violated the Safe Drinking Water Act by not spending $455 million in federal funding allocated for improving drinking water systems. The state says it will take all necessary steps to address the problem. Sacramento Bee et al.

L.A. County Offers Meningitis Vaccines to Certain Residents

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

On Wednesday, Los Angeles County began offering no-cost meningitis vaccines to low-income and uninsured residents, amid concerns of a potential outbreak of the disease. Since November 2012, there have been 13 cases of meningitis and two meningitis-related deaths in the county. However, Jonathan Fielding -- a county health officer -- said there is no evidence of an outbreak. Los Angeles Times.

Assembly Committee Rejects Apartment Smoking Ban

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

On Wednesday, the Assembly Housing and Community Development Committee voted 5-2 against a bill that would have banned smoking in apartment buildings and other multi-family housing facilities. Critics of the bill -- by Assembly member Marc Levine -- questioned who would enforce the rule and what effect it would have on habitual smokers or people with disabilities who cannot easily leave their residences. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert."

State Senator Proposes Tobacco Tax Increase To Fund Health Programs

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

A bill by state Sen. Kevin de León would increase cigarette taxes by $2 per pack. The estimated $1.2 billion in annual revenue from the tax hike would be used to pay for programs that promote access to care and tobacco-related health services. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert."

Brown Says Calif. Might Release 10,000 Inmates Under Population Cap

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Gov. Brown says that state officials will prepare to release up to 10,000 inmates if they are forced to obey court-ordered prison population caps. California was ordered to reduce its prison population to help improve inmates' medical and mental health care services. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert."

Report Finds Improved Access to Dental Care for Medi-Cal Kids

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

A state report finds that a higher rate of Sacramento and Los Angeles children enrolled in Medi-Cal received dental treatment in 2012 than in 2011. However, an advisory committee still is concerned about dental care access in those areas. Sacramento Bee.

Group Offers Free Vaccines To Curb Spread of Meningitis

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

In response to concerns about a potential outbreak of bacterial meningitis among men who have sex with men, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation on Sunday announced that it will offer no-cost vaccines in an effort to combat the spread of the disease. Over the weekend, a West Hollywood man died after contracting the disease. Los Angeles Times et al.

California To Identify BPA as Reproductive Toxicant

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

On Thursday, the California Environmental Protection Agency announced that the state will identify the chemical additive Bisphenol-A, or BPA, as a reproductive toxicant under Proposition 65. BPA has been linked to a variety of health problems, including birth defects. San Francisco Chronicle.

Senate Panel Likely To OK Tavenner as Head of CMS

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Following a confirmation hearing on Tuesday, acting CMS Administrator Marilyn Tavenner appeared to be on track to win approval from the Senate Finance Committee, encountering little opposition from lawmakers. The committee likely will vote on Tavenner's nomination next week. If she is confirmed by the full Senate, Tavenner would be the first permanent CMS administrator since 2006. Reuters et al.

Editorial: State Should Not Appeal Prison Health Ruling

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

A Sacramento Bee editorial argues that the state should not appeal a decision by U.S. District Judge Lawrence Karlton to reject Gov. Brown's request to end federal oversight of California's prison health care system. According to the editorial, Brown should "stop spending taxpayer funds on fruitless appeals" that "will not pass constitutional muster." Sacramento Bee.

Senate Committee OKs Bill To Boost Regulation of Fracking

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, a California Senate committee voted 6-2 to approve a bill that would tighten rules for the drilling process called hydraulic fracturing, or fracking. Critics argue that fracking could cause public health risks by polluting public water supplies. The bill -- by Sen. Fran Pavley -- would require state authorities to monitor and report on the public health and environmental effects of the drilling process. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert."

Obama's Tobacco Tax Plan Expected To Follow California's Example

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

This week, President Obama is expected to propose a plan that would fund a universal preschool program using tobacco taxes, which is similar to a California initiative. Some experts hail the approach, while others say it is a risky long-term strategy. KPCC's "KPCC News."

Healthy Food Needed in Schools, Opinion Piece Says

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

In a Sacramento Bee opinion piece, Mikki Cichocki -- youth services coordinator for the San Bernardino City Unified School District and secretary-treasurer of the California Teachers Association -- argues that the availability of unhealthy food in schools "undermines parents' efforts to raise healthy kids, makes it harder for teachers to do their jobs well and contributes to an obesity epidemic that threatens the health of more than 23.5 million children and teens." She writes that the U.S. Department of Agriculture's proposed nutrition standards for schools "won't solve all the problems we face as parents and teachers, but [are] a critical step." Sacramento Bee.

Palliative Care Key Part of Berkeley Forum's Prescription

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Heath care organizations in Northern California are in step with a recent report from the Berkeley Forum suggesting that improvements in palliative care could help California save $110 billion over the next decade.

Recent Flu Season One of the Worst in Calif., Officials Say

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

According to the California Department of Public Heath, there were 62 influenza-related deaths in California this flu season, far more than the 20 flu-related deaths reported last year. Experts say the increase could have been caused in part by more testing and better reporting among physicians this year. KPCC's "KPCC News."

Funding Shortage Hampers Valley Fever Treatment

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

A lack of funding is hindering treatment and prevention of valley fever, according to an investigative series by the Reporting on Health Collaborative. Researchers say that 150,000 people contract valley fever annually and millions of dollars are spent treating those patients, but valley fever receives far less funding than other diseases that affect fewer people. Stockton Record.

Judge Denies Bid To End Federal Oversight of Prison Health Care

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

A federal judge has rejected Gov. Brown's request to end federal oversight of California's prison health care system. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation says that state officials plan to appeal the ruling. Los Angeles Times et al.

First 5 L.A. Awards $11M Grant to UCLA To Boost L.A. County Dental Care

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

First 5 L.A. has awarded the UCLA School of Dentistry $11 million to create a program that will provide dental care for children and pregnant women in Los Angeles County. Some of the funding will be used to expand community outreach efforts. KPCC's "KPCC News," UCLA release.

Flu Season Death Toll in S.D. County Hits 60, Officials Say

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

Sixty San Diego County residents have died from influenza this season, marking the highest death toll from the flu since the county began keeping records at least 15 years ago, according to a report released Wednesday by the county's Health and Human Services Agency. All but one of the 60 people who died this flu season had an underlying health problem, the agency noted. U-T San Diego.

Three School-Based Wellness Centers Opening in L.A. Area

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

St. John's Well Child and Family Center is opening three wellness centers on school campuses in the Los Angeles area. Jim Mangia -- president and CEO of St. John's -- said that centers will provide comprehensive medical, dental and mental health care services to community residents. HealthyCal.

Consultants Recommend Creation of Specialized Prison Health Division

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

A report by consultants for a federal receiver overseeing California's prison health care system recommends that the state develop a specialized division to oversee inmate care. It also says that California should maximize its federal funding for inmate care. Los Angeles Times.

CDC Finds More U.S. Children Diagnosed With ADHD

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 08:00:00 GMT

The number of children diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder has increased by 53% over the last decade, but that increase might reflect overuse of the diagnosis and its medications, according to a new CDC report. Observers say that even more children might be diagnosed with the disorder after the American Psychiatric Association releases new criteria for ADHD diagnoses in its fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. New York Times.