California Healthline: Chronic Disease Care

High Desert's Black Residents Have Lower Life Expectancy

Tue, 29 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Recent data from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health show that black residents in Antelope Valley die on average four years earlier than black residents living in other areas of Los Angeles County and 10 years earlier than all county residents. County health officials said the lower life expectancy for black Antelope Valley residents could be the result of poor access to quality health care; health behaviors, such as diet and obesity; and education and employment levels. Los Angeles Times.

Medical Pot Advocates Stump for Dispensary Regulation Bill

Mon, 21 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Saturday, medical marijuana advocates launched a three-day event in Sacramento to rally support for a bill, by Assembly member Tom Ammiano, that would create a statewide oversight agency to regulate legal dispensaries. In Congress, Reps. Sam Farr, Tom McClintock and Dana Rohrabacher have co-sponsored an amendment that would block funding for federal efforts to close businesses in California and 16 other states that permit medical marijuana use. Sacramento Bee, Contra Costa Times.

Richmond City Council OKs Soda Tax Measures for Ballot

Thu, 17 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, the Richmond City Council voted 5-2 to put on the November ballot a pair of soda tax measures that seek to curb the city's high child obesity rate. The first measure proposes a 1-cent per ounce tax on sugar-sweetened drinks, while the second would advise the city council to use the tax revenue for sports and health education programs for local youths. If approved, the soda tax would be the first of its kind in the U.S. Contra Costa Times, KQED's "State of Health."

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 Regulate Spending of Public Health Care Districts

Mon, 14 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The California Assembly is considering a bill that would require taxpayer-funded health care districts to spend at least 95% of their annual tax revenue on community programs and services and provide annual reports on their spending to local officials. Supporters of the bill include consumer advocacy group Health Access and Services Employees International Union California. However, the Association of California Healthcare Districts argues that the measure would hinder the ability of smaller districts to operate. California Watch.

San Diego Barbershops Offer Shave, Haircut and Health Screening

Thu, 03 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Volunteers this month will descend on barbershops in Southeast San Diego to screen African-American men for diabetes and high blood pressure during a multicity event aimed at raising awareness and addressing health disparities.

Community Dental Clinics Struggle To Provide Services

Wed, 02 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Since California lawmakers cut non-emergency dental services for low-income and disabled residents three years ago, community dental clinics have struggled to cover preventive services. In addition, the clinics have had difficulty finding specialists to perform more advanced dental procedures at a not-for-profit rate. HealthyCal.

Study Highlights Treatment Challenges for Type 2 Diabetes

Tue, 01 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Type 2 diabetes progresses more quickly and is harder to treat in children and teenagers than in adults, according to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine. The findings could foreshadow a major strain on the U.S. health care system because poorly controlled diabetes significantly increases the risk of costly medical conditions. New York Times et al.

Study Finds Preventable Chronic Ailments Cost CalPERS Millions in 2008

Tue, 01 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new study finds that CalPERS could have saved up to $54 million in 2008 if members did not have as many preventable health conditions. Various groups have launched a program aimed at improving public workers' health. AP/Sacramento Bee, Sacramento Bee's "The State Worker."

Hearing Examines Unequal State Spending on Autism Services

Tue, 01 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

State officials and children's health care advocates are criticizing the Department of Developmental Services for unequal spending on autism services across ethnic and racial groups. Lawmakers are seeking legislation to strengthen accountability. Los Angeles Times.

UCSF Study Says Unmet Basic Needs Weaken HIV Progress

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Despite progress in the treatment and prevention of HIV, a UC-San Francisco study involving 288 homeless men with HIV finds that unmet basic needs -- such as shelter, regular meals and good hygiene -- had the largest effect on the physical and mental health of patients. A 2011 study involving homeless women had similar findings. San Francisco Chronicle.

Experts Link Recession, Changing Views to Drop in Health Care Spending

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Economists say the recent sharp decline in health care spending could be related to the recession, but other factors might be at play. They note that the decline also could stem from clinicians' and patients' changing views about health care spending. New York Times, Reuters.

Program Targets Unnecessary Treatments, Procedures

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The American College of Physicians and Consumer Reports have launched High Value Care, an education program to help patients determine whether a medical test or procedure is necessary. The program advises patients on procedures to avoid when there is insufficient proof that their benefits outweigh their risks and costs. The first two conditions that the program is focusing on back pain and Type 2 diabetes. New York Times' "Bucks," MedPage Today.

Senate Committee Clears Legislation for Newborn Disease Testing

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The California Senate Health Committee has approved a bill that would require screening of newborns for two lysosomal storage diseases. Some health experts are concerned by the bill, saying not enough is known about the diseases and their treatments. Ventura County Star.

Sacramento Firm Nabs $5M for Stem Cell Harvesting

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Sacramento-based SynGen announced that it received $5 million in funding from the San Francisco venture capital firm Bay City Capital to further develop its stem cell harvesting systems. SynGen will use the funding to develop, market and obtain regulatory approval for SynGen-1000, which harvests stem and progenitor cells for use in various treatments. Sacramento Bee.

Community Health Centers Fall Short, Analysis Finds

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Hundreds of U.S. community health centers are underperforming on key health care quality measures -- such as vaccinating children and helping diabetic patients control blood sugar -- according to a Kaiser Health News/USA Today analysis. The analysis – which was based on 2010 data -- found that centers in the South generally performed worse than those in California, New England and the Midwest. Kaiser Health News/USA Today.

Expanded Website Tracks Quality of Dialysis Clinics

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

This week, a newly expanded website will allow U.S. residents to view how dialysis clinics across the U.S. compare with one another based on 16 quality measures. The no-cost website was launched two years ago by the not-for-profit news organization ProPublica and now includes statistics through 2010. San Jose Mercury News.

California To Conduct Four-Year Study of HIV-Prevention Pill Truvada

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

California researchers are planning a four-year study to examine if use of the HIV-prevention pill Truvada among certain residents could help slow the spread of the disease. Some experts question the pill's efficacy and say it could lead to more people not using condoms. Los Angeles Times, U-T San Diego.

Assembly Committee OKs Bill on Medical Pot Dispensaries

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, the Assembly's public safety committee voted 4-2 to pass a bill, by Assembly member Tom Ammiano, that would create statewide regulations for medical marijuana dispensaries. Lawmakers voted along party lines, with Democrats supporting the bill. The measure now goes to the Assembly appropriations committee. AP/UT-San Diego.

U.S. Hospitals Opening Geriatric-Focused EDs

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Hospitals across the U.S are opening geriatric emergency departments to cater to the country's aging population and boost patient satisfaction scores. The EDs offer targeted services and amenities for elderly patients, who represent a growing share of hospital patients. Individuals over age 65 now account for 15% to 20% of all ED visits, a percentage that is expected to rise as baby boomers age. New York Times.

Indian Health Clinic Uses CDC Grant To Combat Diabetes

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Potawot Health Village in Arcata, Calif. -- a multi-tribal health clinic serving the region's American Indian and Native Alaskan populations -- was one of 17 Indian organizations nationwide to receive a $100,000 grant from CDC's Native Diabetes Wellness Program. Potawot will use the grant to develop a comprehensive Food as Medicine program aimed at combating diabetes. California Watch.

Annual Screening for Lung Cancer Is Cost-Effective, Study Finds

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new study published in the journal Health Affairs finds that annual CT scans for lung cancer in longtime tobacco users cost less than common screening practices for other types of cancer. The study also finds that such scans could save thousands of lives annually. NPR's "Shots" et al.

UC-Davis Study Links Obesity During Pregnancy to Autism

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new UC-Davis study published in the journal Pediatrics finds that women who are obese are 70% more likely to have a child with autism and twice as likely to have a child with other types of developmental delays as normal-weight women with normal blood pressure and no diabetes. Sacramento Bee, Los Angeles Times.

S.F. Elected Officials Rally Behind Medical Marijuana

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

At a rally on Tuesday, several San Francisco elected officials offered support for state-sanctioned medical marijuana dispensaries. The rally -- which was held in response to a federal crackdown on California dispensaries -- came one day after federal agents raided Oaksterdam University, a marijuana cultivation school in Oakland. San Francisco Chronicle.

Napa, Solano Counties Have High Obesity, Smoking Rates

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Solano and Napa counties have the highest smoking and binge drinking rates in the state, respectively, according to the "Adult Health Profiles" report by the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research. The study -- which is based on the 2009 California Health Interview Survey -- also found that Napa County had the highest obesity rate in the Bay Area and that Solano County's obesity rate was significantly higher than the rest of the state. Vallejo Times-Herald.

Field Poll: Eating Habits, Inactivity Cited as Top Children's Health Risks

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A Field Poll finds that 48% of likely state voters say the top health risks to children are unhealthy diets and a lack of exercise. The poll also finds that 73% of voters believe it is communities' responsibility to address childhood obesity. Sacramento Bee, San Francisco Chronicle.

Oakland School District Eyes Universal Health Access

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

By the end of the year, the Oakland Unified School District could become the first major urban U.S. school district to provide universal access to primary health care to all students. Since 2010, nine new school-based health care centers have opened or are scheduled to open this year, for a total of 26 centers in the district. The $18 million initiative is funded primarily by the city of Oakland, Alameda County and Kaiser Permanente. HealthyCal.

Court Will Not Revisit Ruling on Payment for Bone Marrow Donors

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, an appeals court turned down the Obama administration's request to reconsider a ruling allowing payments to people who donate bone marrow. The administration has 90 days to decide whether to petition the case to the Supreme Court. AP/U-T San Diego, Los Angeles Times.

Mt. Diablo Health District To Proceed With Grant Awards

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Mt. Diablo Health Care District Board Chair Jeff Kasper said the district will proceed with its plans to award grants to area not-for-profits while the process to disband the board and turn over the district's funding and responsibilities to Concord continues. Contra Costa Times.

Poll Finds Obesity Rates in L.A. Region Down About 3%

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Obesity rates among residents of the Los Angeles, Long Beach and Santa Ana metro areas have decreased by nearly 3% since 2009, according to a new poll by Gallup and Healthways. The poll also found that diabetes rates in the region have dropped by about 1% from 2010. The findings suggest that more residents in the area are exercising regularly. KPCC's "KPCC News."

LAO Notes Possible Challenges for Gov. Brown's Proposed IHSS Cuts

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Legislative Analyst's Office says cuts proposed by Gov. Brown for In-Home Supportive Services could face legal challenges and be difficult to implement. LAO is offering alternative cost-saving proposals. HealthyCal, Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert."

1-800-GET-THIN Billboards Being Pulled Down in S. Calif.

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Billboard advertisements for the 1-800-GET-THIN campaign are being pulled down across Southern California because contracts with two billboard companies to promote the Lap-Band weight-loss surgery have lapsed. FDA and Los Angeles County officials have expressed concern about the ad campaign, calling it misleading. Allergan -- the Lap-Band's maker -- has said it will no longer sell the device to surgery centers tied to the campaign. Los Angeles Times.

Lawmakers Stay Out of Mt. Diablo Health District Debate

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Assembly member Susan Bonilla and Sen. Mark DeSaulnier will not intervene in efforts to shut down Mt. Diablo Health Care District, saying the fate of the district is a local matter. The Contra Costa Local Agency Formation Commission is expected on Wednesday to disband the health care district or recommend the creation of a new subsidiary to take over its responsibilities. Contra Costa Times.

Mt. Diablo Health District Under Fire After Recent Grant

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Mt. Diablo Health Care District awarded a $50,000 grant to the not-for-profit NorCal Transitions to help the homeless, but the group's founder has a criminal record that includes felony grand theft, unpaid taxes and allegations of domestic abuse. The health district already has come under fire for spending the majority of its funding on overhead, elections and lawyers, and rarely offering community services. This week, officials likely will vote to terminate the health care district. Contra Costa Times.

Obama Administration Files Appeal for Tobacco Labeling

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Obama administration has filed an appeal with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia challenging a ruling that new laws forcing tobacco companies to add graphic warning labels to cigarette packaging are unconstitutional. Last week, U.S. District Judge Richard Leon ruled that requiring tobacco companies to use the labels violated their free speech rights. Reuters.

Survey: Californians Concur on Need for Prevention

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

At a joint Assembly and Senate health hearing yesterday, results of a Field Poll unveiled a few days shy of the official release indicate that an overwhelming majority of Californians (about 80% of those surveyed) believe government and schools need to pitch in to fight childhood obesity and that preventive health programs pay for themselves in reduced health care costs to the state.

That tied in nicely with the intent of the hearing, which was convened by the two legislative health committees to look at ways to focus health policy toward prevention of chronic conditions such as obesity, heart disease and diabetes.

"When we look at the fact that individual [health] behavior and people's environment contribute to about 70% of our health care costs, it should really be addressed," according to Larry Cohen, founder and executive director of the Prevention Institute and a panelist at the hearing. "But our health care investment is only about 4% in prevention."

Study: Calif. Student Obesity Rates Rising at Slower Pace

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Obesity rates are rising at a slower pace among California students, according to a UC-Davis Health System study of state-mandated physical fitness tests of school-aged children. Data show that obesity rates among fifth-, seventh- and ninth-graders increased by 0.33% in 2008, compared with 0.8% to 1.7% annually in previous decades. California Watch.

S.F. Bay Area Medical Home Pilot Program Sees Positive Results

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Since launching a patient-centered medical home pilot program in 2010, John Muir Health has seen a 43% drop in hospitalizations and a 14% drop in emergency department visits. Medical home programs seek to address the cost of treating patients with chronic illnesses. Contra Costa Times.

Obese Children More Likely To Develop Asthma, Study Finds

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A recent Kaiser Permanente study finds that children in Southern California were 18% more likely to develop asthma if they were overweight or obese. For the study -- which was published in the medical journal Obesity -- researchers examined the electronic health records of 681,000 children covered by Kaiser between the ages of 6 and 19. Payers & Providers.

Judge Rules Against Graphic Warnings on Cigarette Boxes

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Wednesday, a federal judge ruled that a federal law requiring tobacco companies to include graphic warning labels on cigarette packages is unconstitutional. The decision came three months after the judge issued a preliminary injunction blocking FDA from enforcing the requirement, citing concerns that it violates companies' free speech rights. The government is expected to appeal the ruling. Reuters et al.

Judge Dismisses Lawsuit by Medical Marijuana Advocates

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, a federal judge dismissed one of five lawsuits filed last year by medical marijuana advocates to block federal prosecutors and California officials from shutting down dispensaries across the state. The lawsuit was filed on behalf of the El Camino Wellness Center and a Sacramento patient. Sacramento Bee.

Health Plans Looking for Strategies To Curb Costs After Reform Rollout

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

After the federal health reform law is fully implemented in 2014, health insurers are expected to look for new ways to control costs through greater monitoring of individuals with chronic conditions, better coordination with physicians and new payment models. New York Times.

Bill Would Ban Sugary Sports Drinks at Middle, High Schools

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

California Assembly member Das Williams has introduced a bill that would prohibit the sale of sugary sports drinks -- also known as "electrolyte replacement beverages" -- in middle and high schools during regular hours of operation. The California Medical Association is co-sponsoring the bill. The drinks already are banned at elementary schools. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert."

Editorial Says Tobacco Taxes Could Hurt State Budget

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

An Orange County Register editorial states that California's decision to borrow $4.4 billion against uncertain revenue from a tobacco settlement might force officials to tap the state's general fund. The settlement funds might not become available because they are linked to shrinking tobacco sales. The editorial calls for a moratorium on tobacco taxes, arguing that they would "further depress cigarette use, making the bond repayment problem worse." Orange County Register.

Physician Files Lawsuit Against 1-800-GET-THIN President for I.D. Theft

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

An anesthesiologist is claiming that the president of the 1-800-GET-THIN marketing firm stole the physician's identity to establish a corporation that billed insurers for anesthesia administered during Lap-Band procedures. The executive has denied any wrongdoing. Los Angeles Times.

Health Plans Boost Diabetes Care, Struggle With Other Treatments

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

California's Office of the Patient Advocate reports that major health plans improved care for patients with diabetes in 2010. However, the plans fell below national standards for treating other conditions. Contra Costa Times, Los Angeles Times.

Bond Agency Says Calif. Counting on Unreliable Tobacco Funds

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The state has borrowed billions against anticipated revenue it may never receive from a decade-old tobacco settlement. The settlement funds are linked to tobacco sales, which have dropped quicker than officials predicted as a result of tobacco tax hikes and antismoking laws. California Watch.

LIVESTRONG Group Gives $1.5M To Support Tobacco Tax Increase

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The LIVESTRONG Foundation has made a $1.5 million contribution to support a June ballot measure that aims to increase the state tobacco tax. Funding from the tax hike would aid research on smoking-related conditions such as cancer and heart disease. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert" et al.

Survey: Patients, Physicians Not Discussing End-of-Life Care

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A California HealthCare Foundation survey finds that about 80% of residents would want to talk to their physicians about end-of-life care if they became seriously ill. However, only 7% of residents have done so. Contra Costa Times, San Francisco Chronicle.

Seniors Improperly Denied Home Care Payments, Lawsuit Says

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new lawsuit alleges that Senior Health Insurance Company of Pennsylvania avoided reimbursing California seniors for in-home care costs. SHIP has about 10,000 policyholders in California. AP/San Francisco Chronicle, KPCC's "KPCC News."

NIH Gets Funding Boost for Alzheimer's Research

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, the Obama administration announced that NIH will spend more than $500 million on Alzheimer's research in 2013. According to the announcement, NIH also will allocate an additional $50 million for research this year. AP/Sacramento Bee.

FDA Grants Priority Review to Genetech Breast Cancer Drug

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, San Francisco-based Genentech announced that FDA will give its experimental breast cancer treatment pertuzumab a priority review. Genetech, a unit of Roche, said the agency will make a decision about the drug by June 8. San Francisco Business Times.

Surgery Centers Halt Lap-Band Procedures Amid Investigations

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Lap-Band surgeries have been temporarily discontinued at two surgery centers linked with the 1-800-GET-THIN campaign. Facility officials said they halted the procedure because of allegations questioning its safety. Los Angeles Times et al.

Study: Tobacco Tax Hike Could Boost Jobs, Economy

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A June 5 ballot initiative that would raise California's tobacco tax by $1 per pack could boost the state's economy by nearly $2 billion annually and create 12,000 new permanent jobs in medical research and other sectors, according to a new study from the UC-San Francisco Center for Tobacco Control Research and Education. UCSF researchers also noted that as a result of the new tax, "Californians would smoke less and spend their money in other ways." San Francisco Business Times.

Richmond Weighs Soda Tax To Combat Child Obesity

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Richmond City Council is considering a pair of ballot measures that seek to curb the city's high child obesity rate. The first measure would set a one-cent per ounce tax on sugar-sweetened drinks, and the second measure would allocate the tax revenue toward public health initiatives. HealthyCal.

Lap-Band Maker Will Not Sell to Clinics Linked to Marketing Campaign

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The manufacturer of the Lap-Band device says it has discontinued sales to surgery centers affiliated with the 1-800-GET-THIN marketing campaign. Several of the centers' patients died following weight-loss procedures, prompting state and federal investigations. Los Angeles Times, AP/Sacramento Bee.

Calif. Komen Affiliates Blast Defunding Decision

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In a joint statement to California's congressional delegation on Thursday, all seven California affiliates of the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation said they oppose the breast cancer advocacy group's decision this week to halt funding grants to Planned Parenthood affiliates nationwide. In 2011, 19 Planned Parenthood affiliates received about $680,000 from Komen for their breast cancer screening and education programs. Washington Post's "WonkBlog," Oakland Tribune.

IOM Report Highlights Costs of Chronic Conditions in U.S.

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In a report issued Tuesday, the Institute of Medicine highlighted nine chronic conditions that have significant effects on the U.S. health care system and account for billions of dollars in annual spending. The report makes 17 recommendations for addressing the high cost of chronic disease care in the U.S. Modern Healthcare, Los Angeles Times' "Booster Shots."

Health Care Advocates Support Tobacco Tax Hike To Fund Research

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Health providers and advocates have launched a campaign for a June ballot measure that aims to raise the state tobacco tax by $1 per pack. Funds from the increase would aid research for smoking-related health conditions. Riverside Press Enterprise, Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert."

Editorial: Calif. Must Resolve Issue of Aging Prison Inmates

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Although California has made strides to reduce overcrowding in prisons, it also must address the cost of holding a growing number of geriatric prisoners, according to a Sacramento Bee editorial that highlights a new Human Rights Watch report. The editorial states, "Dealing with geriatric populations behind bars is costly, especially since prisoners are not eligible for federal health insurance programs for the elderly." It adds, "In addition to normal prison security costs, the state has to deal with the ailments of the old -- mobility impairments, hearing and vision loss, dementia, illnesses that are chronic, disabling and terminal." Sacramento Bee.

Sacramento County To Be Part of CDC Health Study

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

CDC has selected Sacramento to be one of 15 counties to participate in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The survey -- which will begin Thursday and continue through April 1 -- aims to identify health issues and guide the federal government in developing initiatives and policies to address those issues. Sacramento Bee.

FDA OKs Genentech Drug To Treat Advanced Skin Cancer

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Monday, FDA approved the first drug to treat an advanced form of basal cell carcinoma, the most common type of skin cancer. The drug -- known generically as vismodegib -- will be marketed as Erivedge by California-based Genentech. The company estimates that a 10-month treatment course would cost about $75,000. New York Times' "Prescriptions," Wall Street Journal.

Hair Products Maker Settles Calif. Lawsuit Over Use of Carcinogen

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Monday, California announced a $600,000 settlement with the manufacturer of the Brazilian Blowout hair-straightening treatment. The company was accused of failing to inform users that its products contain formaldehyde, which the state classifies as a carcinogen. San Francisco Chronicle et al.

Personal Stories Highlight Oral Chemotherapy Bill

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

New legislation proposed by Assembly member Henry Perea (D-Fresno) would require health plans to provide chemotherapy in pill form, in some cases.

"This bill will provide greater access for oral chemotherapy treatment," Perea said on the Assembly floor late last week. "This is the right thing to do, to allow people access to lifesaving drugs."

Perea introduced the measure with his personal account of caring for his mother, who he said was diagnosed with stage 2 lung cancer just over a year ago. During the long, eight-hour chemo infusion in the hospital, he learned quite a lot about cancer and chemo from patients and professionals.

Legislature Takes Action on Several Health-Related Bills

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Assembly has passed bills that would expand coverage of mental health care services and require insurers to cover oral chemotherapy treatments. Meanwhile, a bill to establish a universal health care system in California stalled in the Senate. Sacramento Bee et al.

Los Angeles County OKs Plan To Spur Healthy Communities

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved an ordinance that requires new developments in unincorporated areas to provide wider sidewalks, bicycle parking and other changes to help promote exercise and reduce obesity. Community health leaders said that they were encouraged that county officials were examining how environmental issues affect health but that the county could do more. Los Angeles Times.

Elderly Health Program Viewed as Model To Cut Costs, Improve Care

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

State and federal policymakers are looking to the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly as a potential model to save money and improve health care for the elderly and individuals with disabilities. California has five PACE organizations that operate 18 centers. San Francisco Chronicle.

House Members Call for Study of Weight-Loss Surgery, Advertising

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

California Rep. Henry Waxman and two other House members are calling on the House Energy and Commerce Committee to investigate the safety and effectiveness of the Lap-Band weight-loss procedure and its affiliated marketing campaigns. Los Angeles Times et al.

State Receives "F" for Inadequate Funding of Tobacco Prevention

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Thursday, the American Lung Association released a state-by-state report card that gave California an "F" grade for not adequately funding tobacco prevention and control programs. However, the state received an "A" for its smoke-free air policies. San Bernardino Sun et al.

Study: Obesity Rates Plateau, Show No Signs of Declining

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

After two decades of steady increases, U.S. obesity rates over the previous 12 years have remained at around 36% for adults and 17% among children, according to a new CDC study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. The study found that from 2009 to 2010, more than 78 million adults and almost 13 million children ages two to 19 were obese. The researchers noted that they did not find any indication of a decline in obesity rates in any population group. New York Times' "Well" et al.

Calif. High Court To Review Local Medical Pot Bans

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Wednesday, the California Supreme Court agreed to review four lawsuits related to medical marijuana dispensaries and questions about local control. In one case, a lower state court ruled that Riverside had the right to ban dispensaries. The decision has been used by local governments throughout the state to shut down medical marijuana clinics in their areas. Riverside Press-Enterprise.

Mercy Opens New Imaging, Cancer Centers in Sacramento

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Last week, Mercy Sacramento officially opened the new Mercy Cancer Center and Mercy Imaging Center in east Sacramento to provide patients with oncology diagnostic imaging and treatment services in one central location. The centers -- which together cost $20 million and were built adjacent to each other -- also provide outpatient services such as radiation and other therapies. The imaging center began accepting new patients last month, and the cancer center is expected to be fully operational this month. Sacramento Bee.

Advocates Warn Reform Law Might Negatively Affect HIV/AIDS Patients

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Patient advocates are expressing concern that the federal health reform law might unintentionally have negative effects on programs that serve Californians living with HIV or AIDS. Advocates also say they are concerned with cuts to the programs' budgets. HealthyCal.

S.F. Makes $1.8M Funding Request for HIV/AIDS Care

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Last week, San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee and members of the Board of Supervisors announced that they have requested to use $1.8 million from a city reserve fund for HIV/AIDS care and treatment services. The funds would be used to maintain primary care, hospice services and housing assistance for residents with HIV/AIDS through June 30. Lee and the supervisors made the request after Congress eliminated about $5 million in federal funding from the most recent budget package that would have gone toward HIV/AIDS programs in the city. The supplemental request is expected to gain final approval from a majority of the board. Bay Citizen, San Francisco Chronicle's "City Insider."

Analysis Highlights Rates of Stroke Prevention Procedure

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Residents of Santa Maria in Santa Barbara County have the highest rates statewide of a stroke prevention procedure called carotid endarterectomy, according to an analysis of hospital data by Stanford University professor Laurence Baker. Residents of the Clearlake area in Lake County have the second highest rates of the procedure in California, the analysis found. The procedure carries risks that include heart attack, stroke and death. San Francisco Chronicle, KQED's "The California Report."

UCSF, Drug Company Sanofi Launch Diabetes Drug Project

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, French pharmaceutical company Sanofi and UC-San Francisco announced details of a $3.1 million pilot project designed to identify drug targets that might lead to new treatments for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. The initiative is part of a broader partnership between UCSF and the drugmaker that was launched in January 2011. Under the latest project, laboratories led by three UCSF scientists will study insulin-producing cells, known as beta cells, which are destroyed in Type 1 diabetes and often fail to produce enough insulin in Type 2 diabetes. San Francisco Business Times' "Biotech SF," Fierce Biotech.

First Lady's Initiative Aims To Boost Research on PTSD, TBI

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Wednesday, first lady Michelle Obama announced a new initiative, as part of her "Joining Forces" campaign, in which more than 100 medical schools will commit to increasing research and training on treating veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury. The initiative is intended to provide military-focused training to physicians beyond those who work at military medical centers or military bases. The initiative will not provide funding to the participating schools, but schools will be able to make individual decisions on how to integrate the additional training and research into their curriculum. AP/Washington Post, MedPage Today.

Opinion: Protect Funds for IHSS Anti-Fraud Initiatives

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

"Gov. Jerry Brown's plan to save money by cutting state funding to combat In-Home Supportive Services fraud is penny-wise and pound-foolish" because it "will create an open season for criminals to bilk taxpayers out of the very dollars he wants to save," Sacramento County District Attorney Jan Scully writes in a Sacramento Bee opinion piece. "For the past two fiscal years, the state budget included $10 million for IHSS fraud investigations," which "made California eligible to receive $10 million in additional federal funds, totaling $20 million each fiscal year for distribution to any county willing to implement an IHSS fraud investigation plan," she notes. "The governor should protect IHSS fraud prevention funds because ... [f]ailing to do so will be a disservice to IHSS participants, taxpayers and communities throughout California," Scully concludes. Sacramento Bee.

Tenderloin Health Center To Close Amid Financial Turmoil

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Thursday, the board of directors of San Francisco's Tenderloin Health announced that the center will close because of financial problems. According to Tenderloin Health CEO David Fernandez, the center -- which serves homeless and indigent city residents at risk of acquiring HIV or AIDS -- is dealing with debt amid a poor economy and the loss of federal funds. Fernandez said the center would close in the next several months, once new providers are found for its clients. Each year, the center provides about 250 patients with medical care, 500 patients with dental care, 750 with housing assistance and serves 1,400 individuals who need prevention and testing services. San Francisco Chronicle.

Groups Seek Sensors To Monitor Air Pollution Closer to Calif. Freeways

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Groups led by the Natural Resources Defense Council have filed a lawsuit calling on the Environmental Protection Agency to place air pollution-monitoring stations close to freeways to address health concerns associated with living nearby. AP/San Jose Mercury News.

Analysis: Residents of Coachella Valley Sicker Than Other Californians

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

An analysis from Riverside County's Health Assessment Resource Center finds that residents of the Coachella Valley are in poorer health than people in other parts of the state. The analysis points to higher rates of diabetes among Coachella Valley residents. California Watch.

L.A. County Supervisors Seek Stronger Oversight of Outpatient Clinics

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, Los Angeles County supervisors approved an initiative to seek increased regulation of outpatient surgery centers after FDA reproached eight California surgical centers and a marketing firm about misleading advertising for weight-loss surgery. Los Angeles Times et al.

Indigent Patient Populations Tied to Higher Readmissions

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Hospitals with the most low-income patients are nearly three times more likely to report high congestive heart failure readmission rates than other hospitals, according to an analysis by Kaiser Health News. For the analysis, KHN studied 30-day congestive heart failure readmission rates at 3,119 U.S. hospitals from July 2007 to June 2010 using the CMS Hospital Compare website. According to the analysis, 11.7% of the hospitals that treated the greatest share of low-income patients were ranked by Medicare as having worse rehospitalization rates than the national average. In comparison, only 4.3% of remaining hospitals reported higher-than-average rates. Kaiser Health News.

Washington State Case Could Carry Implications for California IHSS Cuts

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

An appeals court has ruled in a Washington state case that states cannot cut in-home services for the elderly and residents with disabilities if there is serious risk they could be institutionalized. An attorney says the ruling has implications for California. San Francisco Chronicle.

Blue Shield Foundation Doles Out $9M in Q4 Grants

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

During the fourth quarter of 2011, the Blue Shield of California Foundation awarded $8.9 million in health care grants. In total, the foundation awarded $27 million in grants in 2011, $5 million more than last year. The Q4 grants include $4.5 million to help counties, community clinics and other safety-net providers improve their use of electronic health records and other health information technology; $2.3 million to boost access to care by funding infrastructure to help handle augmented Medi-Cal funding for low-income Californians; and more than $2 million to target domestic violence as part of the foundation's Blue Shield Against Violence campaign. San Francisco Business Times.

Low Revenue Triggers $980M in Deeper State Spending Reductions

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Gov. Brown has announced that there will be $980 million in deeper spending cuts because of lower-than-expected state revenue. The cuts will begin to take effect next year and will affect health and human services programs. Sacramento Bee et al.

Richmond City To Vote on Sweetened Drink Tax Measure

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Last week, the Richmond City Council approved a November 2012 city ballot measure that would impose a penny-per-ounce sales tax on sweetened drinks, including soda and fruit beverages that contain less than 10% juice. Proponents of the measure say it would help address the obesity rate in the city, particularly among children, by generating funds for anti-obesity programs. Opponents argue that moderate consumption of sweetened beverages can be part of a healthy diet. Contra Costa Times, KQED's "State of Health."

Report Finds Health Issues for Santa Clara Vietnamese

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

On Monday, the Santa Clara County Department of Public Health released a report showing that the rates of cancer, heart disease and tuberculosis are higher among the county's Vietnamese residents than other ethnic and racial groups. County officials cited several reasons for the disparity, including a lack of employer-sponsored health insurance, low English language skills and challenges navigating the health care system. Van Lan Truong -- chair of the National Congress of Vietnamese Americans and a member of the advisory board for the survey -- said the report should help guide policy and funding decisions for programs designed for the Vietnamese community. San Jose Mercury News.

Monning Wants Public Health To Be Part of Local Planning

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

In a recent interview with Capital Public Radio, Assembly member Bill Monning said he plans to push legislation in January, when the Legislature reconvenes, that would establish state guidelines to encourage local governments and transportation planners to consider public health when developing housing, roads and businesses. The guidelines would not be mandatory. Supporters of the legislation say it could help curb rates of obesity, asthma and other diseases. Capital Public Radio.

Study: Fast-Food Toy Ban Did Not Lead to Healthier Food Options

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A Stanford University study concludes that a Santa Clara County ordinance banning fast-food restaurants from giving out toys with meals that did not meet nutritional rules helped reduce marketing of the meals but did not increase healthful food options. Time's "Healthland" et al.

Clashing Views of Transition for Seniors, Disabled

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Either the state's transition to managed care is going great, or it's a confusing mess.

That would depend on who's talking. At a joint oversight hearing last week, convened by the Senate and the Assembly committees on health, government officials outlined a generally positive picture for the effort to move Medi-Cal seniors and people with disabilities (SPDs) from Medi-Cal fee-for-service to managed care.

"The transition of seniors and people with disabilities into managed care is part of the triple mandate from [the federal] HHS," according to Jane Ogle, deputy director at the Department of Health Care Services. "Better health, better quality and more cost-effective care."

FDA To Issue Final Decision on BPA Safety Next Year

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

FDA will have to issue a final decision by March 31 on whether to ban the use of the chemical additive bisphenol-A, according to a settlement with the Natural Resources Defense Council. In 2008, the council petitioned FDA to ban the chemical and later sued the agency after it failed to promptly respond. The settlement -- which comes amid growing evidence that BPA is linked to a variety of health problems -- was approved by a U.S. district court judge in New York, who noted that FDA must issue a final assessment on the use of BPA, not a "tentative response." Washington Post.

Diabetes Project Tries To Reach Valley Hmong Community

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Healthy House, a health and community services coalition in Merced, is using a $50,000 grant to launch a diabetes education and treatment project for the Central Valley's large Hmong community.

Columnist Raises Questions About State Stem Cell Agency

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Geron's announcement last month that it was stopping "the first human trial of stem cell-based spinal cord therapy ... underscores the old questions, and raises new ones, about what [the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine] is supposed to accomplish," Los Angeles Times columnist Michael Hiltzik writes. Geron refunded a loan from CIRM to fund the trial, but "CIRM needs to take a good look at whether it pushed too hard for the Geron loan and overplayed the significance of the trial," according to Hiltzik, who adds, "These questions are only going to become more important in the future, as CIRM prepares to ask California voters for new billions to supplement its original $3 billion bond issue authorized by voters through 2004's Proposition 71." Los Angeles Times.

Report Ranks California 24th Among States for Overall Health

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A new report ranks California the 24th healthiest state in the U.S. According to the report, the state has low rates of infant mortality and smoking, but it has a significant number of uninsured residents. Sacramento Business Journal et al.

Judge Stops State From Planning for In-Home Supportive Services Cuts

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A judge has issued a temporary restraining order blocking the state from notifying In-Home Supportive Services beneficiaries that the program could face automatic cuts if state revenue projections fail to meet budget estimates. Sacramento Business Journal, AP/Santa Cruz Sentinel.

Court OKs Compensation for Some Bone Marrow Donors

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A three-member panel of the San Francisco-based 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled that a federal law prohibiting payment for donated organs does not apply to bone marrow harvested from a donor's blood. The 1984 National Organ Transplant Act prohibits donor payment for bone marrow but permits compensation for blood, sperm and egg donations. According to the court, a new technology that extracts cells from donors' bloodstreams is not covered by the law because the process is nearly identical to donating blood. The ruling stems from a lawsuit filed by a coalition of patients and the California-based not-for-profit organization More Marrow Donors. New York Times et al.

Study: HIV/AIDS Hospitalization Rates Drop, Disparities Increase

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

A report by the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development finds that California's hospitalization rate for complications related to HIV/AIDS has fallen but that rates of HIV/AIDS have increased among blacks, whites and Hispanics. Los Angeles Daily News et al.

Editorial: ADHC Settlement Is a 'Win' for State and Elderly

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The recent adult day health care settlement between state officials and advocates for the elderly and individuals with disabilities to establish a "similar community-based program" was "an 11th-hour reprieve," according to a Modesto Bee editorial. According to the Bee, the "threatened closures" of ADHC centers "made no sense either on fiscal or humanitarian grounds." The editorial notes, "While reimbursement will switch from a fee for service to a managed care model, the services for most of the elderly, low-income adults will endure." The editorial concludes that the settlement is "a rare win for both sides but mostly for frail, elderly Californians and their families." Modesto Bee.

Sacramento County Sees Jump in STI Rates in Women

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

More than four out of every 100 Sacramento County women between ages 15 and 24 were diagnosed with chlamydia or gonorrhea in 2010, a 12% increase from 2009, according to the state Department of Public Health. Meanwhile, the county's birth rate among young women declined by 23%. Sacramento Bee.