California Healthline: Doctors and Nurses

Health Care District’s Funds for Recruitment Program Going Unused

Wed, 30 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

Harold Miller of the Network for Regional Healthcare Improvement Discusses Innovation

Wed, 23 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Harold Miller, president and CEO of the Network for Regional Healthcare Improvement, spoke with California Healthline about the importance of pursuing innovative health care improvement strategies that are tailored to local needs.

More U.S. Medical Students Seeking Dual Degrees

Tue, 22 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A growing number of U.S. medical students are pursuing dual degrees in public health, academic medicine and other fields, such as law and business. According to educators, the students seek to develop interdisciplinary skills for working under health care reform and global health care initiatives. Recent data from the Association of American Medical Colleges show that the combined enrollment in dual programs in medicine and academic medicine; medicine and law; and medicine and business increased by 36% between 2002 and 2011. San Francisco Chronicle.

Calif.'s HealthCare Partners To Be Acquired in $4.42B Deal

Tue, 22 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

DaVita, the second-largest provider of dialysis services in the U.S., has confirmed a $4.42 billion deal to acquire Torrance, Calif.-based physician group HealthCare Partners. The deal is the latest in a string of similar acquisitions by large health care companies as a strategy to rein in rising health costs. HealthCare Partners has more than 50 medical offices that serve 550,000 patients across Southern California. Los Angeles Times.

California Nursing Board Accuses Training School Operators of Fraud

Fri, 18 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

HHS Releases Final Rules To Ease Regulations for Health Care Providers

Fri, 11 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, HHS released two final rules designed to eliminate unnecessary, outdated and duplicative regulations on health care providers.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

Proposed Rule Would Boost Medicaid Pay for Primary Care Physicians

Thu, 10 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

Medical School Enrollments Nearing AAMC Target

Tue, 08 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

U.S. medical school enrollment is on track to reach 21,376 first-year students by 2016, according to a survey of 129 medical schools by the Association of American Medical Colleges. The survey found that first-year medical school enrollment will increase by 29.6% from the 2002-03 school year to the 2016-17 school year, which nearly meets AAMC's goal of a 30% increase by 2015. Modern Healthcare.

Kehoe Shelves Bill To Expand Early-Term Abortion Access

Mon, 07 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

After failing to secure a tie-breaking vote in the Senate Business Professional and Economic Development Committee, Sen. Christine Kehoe on Friday shelved legislation that would have allowed a limited number of non-physicians to perform an early-term abortion procedure. Kehoe indicated that she might pursue the issue through other avenues. U-T San Diego.

Chiropractic Board OKs Regulation Against Using Allergy Laser Therapy

Mon, 07 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

Legislation Boosting Care on Indian Reservations Passes

Fri, 04 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Thursday, the California Assembly passed legislation, by Assembly member Wes Chesbro, that would allow health care providers licensed in other states to practice on American Indian reservations without a California medical license. The bill was developed to address a shortage of medical professionals in California's 31 tribal health programs. The legislation now moves to the Senate. AP/Sacramento Bee.

Mass. Lawmakers Poised To Launch Health Care Payment Reform Efforts

Tue, 01 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Massachusetts lawmakers soon are expected to consider legislation that would overhaul the way health care providers are paid. For example, a legislative committee is advancing a bill that would move all state health care providers to a value-based payment model. Washington Post.

Senate Panel Approves Bill on Health Care Worker Flu Vaccination

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A Senate committee approved a bill to require health care workers to receive an influenza vaccination or wear a mask. Meanwhile, an Assembly panel is considering a bill on personal belief exemptions to the state's immunization requirement. Woodland Daily Democrat et al.

Many California Nursing Graduates Struggle To Find Jobs, Study Finds

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A California Institute for Nursing and Health Care survey finds that nearly half of nursing graduates were unable to secure a job in their field 18 months after graduating. Nursing graduates cited lack of experience as the top reason for not getting a job. Payers & Providers.

Early-Term Abortion Bill Stalls in Senate Committee

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Thursday, a scaled-back version of Sen. Christine Kehoe's bill to allow a limited number of non-physicians to perform an early-term abortion procedure stalled in the Senate Business, Professions and Economic Development Committee on a 4-4 vote. The bill is set to be reconsidered on May 7. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert" et al.

Senate Panel OKs Scaled Back Early-Term Abortion Bill

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, the California Senate Public Safety Committee approved a scaled-back version of a bill, by Sen. Christine Kehoe, that would allow only a limited number of non-physicians to perform an early-term abortion procedure. Under the original bill, up to 24,000 trained nurse practitioners, physician assistants and certified midwives would have been permitted to conduct aspiration abortions, but the revised version allows just 41 professionals who have been trained as part of a UC-San Francisco pilot program to perform the procedure. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert" et al.

Planned Parenthood Stumps for Early-Term Abortion Bill

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Friday, Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California launched a radio ad campaign in support of a bill -- by Sen. Christine Kehoe -- that would allow physician assistants, nurse practitioners and certified midwives to perform an early-term abortion procedure. The bill would require non-physicians to complete a specialized training program by Jan. 1, 2015, to perform the procedure. This week, two Senate committees are scheduled to consider the measure, which faces opposition from the California Nurses Association and California Catholic Conference. U-T San Diego, Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert."

High Demand for Health Care Workers in Sacramento

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Hospital employment is growing twice as fast as overall employment in the Sacramento area, with the industry generating more than 84,000 jobs annually, according to a Hospital Council of Northern and Central California report. Meanwhile, Sacramento health care employers posted the most online job advertisements in March, with registered nurses being the most sought after position, according to a new state Employment Development Department report. Sacramento Business Journal, Sacramento Bee.

Senate Hearing Tackles Flu Vaccination Rate

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

It's important to the general public that health care workers receive influenza inoculations, according to Senate member Lois Wolk (D-Davis), who was recently before the Senate Committee on Health to introduce SB 1318, which she hopes will increase the vaccination rate among health care professionals.

The bill would protect "our most vulnerable patients -- infants, seniors and those who are immune-compromised," Wolk said. "It would ensure that health care workers receive the influenza vaccination, or wear a mask during influenza season. It's a choice: Get vaccinated, or wear the mask. We want to decrease the deaths from influenza, and increase the safety at hospitals."

The California Nurses' Association and the Service Employees International Union are against the policy, in part because they see it as singling out people who opt out of getting the vaccine, by making them wear a mask in patient care areas.

Program Promotes Primary Care Medicine to Students

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Family medicine residents at UC-Davis are participating in a program to recruit high school students -- many of whom are from low-income or ethnic minority backgrounds -- to be primary care physicians. The California Academy of Family Physicians -- which, along with Sutter Health, helped launch the program last year -- estimates that as many as 30% of California family physicians will retire in the next few years and that the state's deficit will reach 17,000 physicians by 2015. Sacramento Bee.

Editorial: Physicians Provide Insight Into Curbing Costs

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

"Major restructuring of medical care is what's needed to curb" U.S. health care costs, and physicians "around the country are beginning to offer insights into how to do that," according to a San Jose Mercury News editorial that examines a recent American Board of Internal Medicine Foundation report on unnecessary or overused procedures. The editorial states that the report "is intended to start a serious debate on what procedures should be routinely done whether doctors think they're needed or not -- a first step in curbing costs to save money for life-saving procedures people do need." San Jose Mercury News.

Riverside County Mulls $15M Pledge to UC Medical School

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, Riverside County supervisors were expected to consider a $15 million pledge to UC-Riverside's medical school to help the facility attain accreditation and maintain its goal of opening in summer 2013. The funding would be provided in installments over eight years. KPCC's "KPCC News."

CMS Announces First 27 Participants in Medicare Shared Savings Program

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, CMS announced the first participants in Medicare's Shared Savings Program, which provides incentives for health care providers to form accountable care organizations. Two of the first 27 participants in the ACO program are based in California. Modern Healthcare et al.

U.S. Residents Cutting Back on Doctor Visits, Prescription Drugs

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A report finds that U.S. residents visited the doctor less often and received fewer prescription drugs in 2011 than in 2010. According to the report, the decline in prescriptions largely was driven by decreased use among elderly residents. New York Times, New York Times' "Well."

Physician Groups Identify 45 Overused Tests, Procedures

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In an effort to reduce medical waste, nine physician specialty groups each have developed a list of five tests and procedures in their respective fields that might be unnecessary or overused. The 45 tests and procedures were identified as part of the American Board of Internal Medicine Foundation's "Choosing Wisely" campaign. USA Today et al.

Community Rallies To Keep Kern Residency Program on Track

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

When the biggest hospital in Kern County decided to cut back its family practice residency program, the rural community reacted quickly and loudly, forcing the Bakersfield hospital to reinstate the program to its previous level.

OSHPD Awards $3.2M to Health Care Workforce Training Programs

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development has awarded $2.8 million to nursing education programs and nearly $400,000 to physician assistant programs to expand the health care workforce throughout the state. Payers & Providers.

More Than 100 Nurses Protest Hospital Executives' High Pay

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Thursday, more than 100 registered nurses rallied outside the California Hospital Association's Sacramento headquarters to protest the high wages of hospital executives. Organizers from the California Nurses Association-National Nurses United said the protest targeted the "increased austerity programs by wealthy corporate hospital chains while handing out lavish pay packages to the top 1% of hospital executives." Sacramento Bee, Sacramento Business Journal's "SBJ Morning Roundup."

Solution to Physician Shortage May Lie in Mid-Level Practitioners

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Ed Hernandez, an optometrist, can see it coming.

The Democrat Senate member from West Covina yesterday helped convene the second hearing in a week to explore the looming shortage of primary care providers in California. The addition of millions of newly insured along with a likely decline in the number of physicians in California is an equation that worries Hernandez. He said the gap is unlikely to be filled in traditional ways.

"Last week we looked at the shortage of providers in California, a shortage that will not lessen," Hernandez said yesterday at a joint meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and the Senate Committee on Business, Professions and Economic Development.

Study: Much of Mental Health Panel Has Ties to Rx Industry

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

About 69% of the members of a panel revising the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders have current or past financial ties to the pharmaceutical industry, according to a new report published in the journal PLoS Medicine. Lisa Cosgrove of the University of Massachusetts-Boston and Sheldon Krimsky of Tufts University School of Medicine -- the report's authors -- found that 16 of the approximately 140 members of the panel are California-based physicians and researchers. California Watch.

DMHC Pursuing Legal Action Against Individual Physician

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Department of Managed Health Care has issued a cease-and-desist order and filed a lawsuit against South Pasadena cosmetic surgeon Jeannette Martello for her routine balance billing of patients. According to a DMHC spokesperson, the legal action is the first that DMHC has issued against an individual physician. Payers & Providers.

Court: Nurse Anesthetists Do Not Need Doctor Supervision

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Last week, an appeals court ruled that nurse anesthetists do not need a physician's supervision to administer anesthesia to California hospital patients. The case stems from a lawsuit that the California Medical Association filed over former Gov. Schwarzenegger's order allowing nurse anesthetists to give anesthesia without supervision. A CMA official said the association has not decided whether to appeal the ruling. San Francisco Chronicle.

Kim Dempsey of NCB Capital Impact Discusses Ways To Boost Capacity of Community Clinics

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Kim Dempsey, director of innovation and strategy at NCB Capital Impact, spoke with California Healthline about recommendations for improving the operations of community health centers.

UC-Davis Ranked Highly for Rural Health Care Training

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

U.S. News & World Report recently ranked UC-Davis School of Medicine ninth among U.S. rural medicine specialty programs in its "Best Graduate Schools 2012" report. It also ranked the school 24th for primary-care training and 42nd among research institutions. Sacramento Business Journal.

Is California Ready for Millions of Newly Insured?

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Not only does the state face a challenge in training enough health care workers to care for millions of newly insured Californians in 2014, state officials also have to figure out how to distribute the workforce efficiently, according to the Center for the Health Professions at UC-San Francisco.

Trying To Provide Solutions to Patient Access

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

California is in a bit of a fix, according to Senate member Ed Hernandez (D-West Covina), chair of the Senate Committee on Health.

The state doesn't have enough physicians and other primary care providers now, according to some estimates. That shortage will become more acute in 2014 when the Affordable Care Act brings up to four million newly insured Californians into the system, looking for providers to care for them.

"2014 is essentially here," Hernandez said yesterday at a Senate health committee hearing on primary care workforce issues. "We have had a historic piece of legislation pass at the federal level, the most historic health legislation since the Lyndon Johnson administration, when the Medicare Act was passed. But there are a lot of unknowns still, including how to implement it."

House Could Vote on IPAB Repeal Legislation Soon

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

As early as next week, the U.S. House could vote on a measure that would repeal the Independent Payment Advisory Board set up under the federal health reform law. The bill also would set a $250,000 cap on punitive damages in malpractice suits, limit lawyer fees and establish other ways to rein in lawsuits against physicians. According to Republicans, the bill would reduce health spending by $50 billion over 10 years. The Hill's "Healthwatch."

Payment Delays, Personnel Issues Plague Medi-Cal Plan

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Ventura County health care providers say Gold Coast Health Plan, a managed care system that administers Medi-Cal in the county, is significantly behind in processing claims. Meanwhile, the group's CEO resigned on Thursday. Last month, the plan's human resources director and interim director of operations were dismissed, and its chief financial officer resigned in January after an allegation of driving under the influence. Ventura County Star.

Bill Would Expand Access to First-Term Abortions

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A bill, by Sen. Christine Kehoe, would allow nurse practitioners, physician assistants and certified midwives to perform "aspiration" abortions, a procedure that uses a suction method to remove a fetus from a uterus. If approved, California would become the fifth state to allow non-doctors to perform the procedure. The Legislature likely will approve the bill. Gov. Brown has not yet taken a stance on the legislation. Sacramento Bee.

Health IT Chief Slams Study Connecting EHRs to More Imaging Tests

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, National Coordinator for Health Information Technology Farzad Mostashari criticized aspects of a Health Affairs study suggesting that the use of electronic health records could encourage physicians to order imaging tests more frequently. Healthcare Informatics et al.

Former Students, Employees Sue Closed Medical Institute

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

At least three former students and employees have sued the Institute of Medical Education in Santa Clara County after it was closed Feb. 15 by federal regulators. The latest lawsuit alleges that students were misled by the for-profit school's owners. Last year, the school's accreditor ended its relationship with the federal government, which made students ineligible for financial aid and unable to take certain state licensing exams. Contra Costa Times.

Study: New RNs Cite Higher Commitment in Recession

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Newly licensed registered nurses who practiced during the recent economic recession perceived fewer job opportunities but reported higher commitment to employers, a better work environment and fewer injuries, according to a recent study in the American Journal of Nursing. The study -- funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation -- surveyed new RNs twice, once in 2006 and once again during the recession in 2009. AHA News.

Health Care Reform Driving Physicians Together

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Hospitals increasingly are employing physicians, while independent doctors are teaming up to jointly contract with health insurers -- driven in large part by the Affordable Care Act. Both trends have led to larger provider networks, though the effect on health care costs is not yet clear.

New Panel Formed To Study Physician Payment Reform

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Society of General Internal Medicine has formed a panel to investigate physician payments and the effect of financial incentives on patient care. Next year, the panel will make recommendations on how to reform physician payments and assess payment models, such as accountable care organizations, medical homes and value-based purchasing. The panel is funded in part by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the California Healthcare Foundation and the Sergei Zlinkoff Fund for Medical Education and Research. Modern Healthcare.

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.

Central Valley Residency May Stay Open

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Paul Hensler, CEO of Kern Medical Center in Bakersfield, said yesterday he plans to keep the family practice residency program intact.

Two weeks ago, the hospital announced it was closing that residency program to the incoming class of six residents, though the program itself would continue. Yesterday, Hensler said he and community members have been working hard to come up with a solution to keep the program.

"There are two scenarios," Hensler said, "to either make the [Family Practice] department more cost-effective, or to develop a collaborative program with the community here."

Doctors Using Electronic Health Records Order More Tests, Study Finds

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new Health Affairs study finds that doctors who can access patients' previous imaging tests through electronic health records order tests 40% more often than those using paper records. The study raises questions about whether EHRs can curb medical costs. New York Times et al.

Advocates Explore Options To Save KMC Residency Program

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Advocates are warning that the planned closure of Kern Medical Center's family medicine residency program could exacerbate the shortage of primary care physicians in the area. Options for maintaining the residency program include creating a consortium to help cover the cost of the program; working with or applying to become a federally qualified health center, which receives higher reimbursement rates from the federal government; and moving the program to another hospital in the area. Bakersfield Californian.

Are ACOs Casting a Wide Net for Patients?

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

With the launch of the Pioneer Accountable Care Organization Model in January, health care provider organizations have been working to build their patient bases. Early signs point to a heated competition among Pioneer ACOs to attract a diverse population now in order to reap financial benefits in later years.

New California Law Seeks To Expand Telehealth Services for Medicaid Beneficiaries

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

April Armstrong and Thomas Nesbitt of UC-Davis Health System, Mario Gutierrez of the Center for Connected Health Policy, Jen Lang-Ree, a nurse practitioner in California, and Jonathan Lopez, a dermatology patient, spoke with California Healthline about a new law that expands and streamlines telehealth services in the state.

Officials Release Stage 2 Rule for Electronic Health Record Program

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, federal officials released Stage 2 requirements for health care providers seeking to demonstrate meaningful use of electronic health records. Officials plan to soon release the Stage 2 proposed rule on EHR certification. Health Data Management et al.

Supreme Court Declines To Rule on Medi-Cal Reimbursement Suit

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The U.S. Supreme Court has declined to rule on a lawsuit considering whether Medi-Cal beneficiaries and providers can sue over reimbursement cuts. The justices said a lower appellate court should re-examine the case. Los Angeles Times, Sacramento Bee.

President Obama Signs Measure on Payroll Tax Cut, Medicare 'Doc Fix'

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, President Obama signed legislation to extend a payroll tax cut and delay scheduled cuts to Medicare physician payments. When the "doc fix" expires at the end of 2012, physicians would face a nearly 32% cut in Medicare payment rates. The Hill's "Blog Briefing Room" et al.

Opinion: Nurse Practitioners Viable Alternative for Care

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

With primary care physicians "in short supply, both in California and nationwide," nurse practitioners can help fill the gap, Patricia Dennehy -- a professor at UC-San Francisco's School of Nursing and director of GLIDE Health Services in San Francisco -- writes in a Los Angeles Times opinion piece. Dennehy notes that NPs help reduce costs because they provide the same quality of comprehensive care as physicians but receive lower salaries. Los Angeles Times.

San Diego Health Care Jobs Will Increase, Forecast Says

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

San Diego County's employment rate will see moderate but accelerating growth through 2013, in part because of more hirings in the health care sector, according to the latest projections from the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation. Growth in area health care jobs will be fueled largely by the implementation of the federal health reform law, the report predicts. U-T San Diego.

HHS To Delay Deadline for Complying With New Medical Coding System

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius has announced that HHS will begin the process to delay the deadline by which certain health care providers must start using ICD-10 diagnosis and procedure codes. HHS has yet to announce a new timeline for ICD-10 compliance. Wall Street Journal's "Health Blog" et al.

Opinion: WellPoint Plan Leads 'Fee-for-Value' Transition

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

WellPoint's new $1 billion initiative to increase primary physician payments by nearly 10% for meeting patient management and medical cost goals is "groundbreaking," Camden Groups executives Jay Warden and Teresa Koenig write in a Payers & Providers opinion piece. They write that it is one of several initiatives that acknowledge "the health reform-fueled transition from a fee-for-service to a fee-for-value world," adding "It's only a matter of time before integrated payer/provider organizations … are more common across the country." Payers & Providers.

Bill on Payroll Tax, 'Doc Fix' Clears Congress, Heads to Obama's Desk

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Today, both the House and Senate voted to pass legislation that would extend the payroll tax cut, continue unemployment benefits and delay scheduled cuts to Medicare physician payments. The bill now goes to President Obama, who has pledged to sign it "right away." Politico et al.

FDA Announces Probe of Fake Avastin Sold to Calif. Physicians

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

FDA has announced that it is investigating vials of fake Avastin, an intravenous drug used to treat cancer. The agency has sent letters notifying 16 California health providers that they may have been sold the counterfeit drug. AP/Contra Costa Times et al.

UCLA Medical School Offers First Bilingual Program

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

UCLA's David Geffen School of Medicine has become the only medical school in the U.S. to offer a program solely for native Spanish-speaking students who can communicate with Latino patients. The International Medical Graduate's program was designed to help the state address a shortage of bilingual and bi-cultural physicians. KPCC's "KPCC News."

Panel Reaches Deal on Extension of Payroll Tax Cut, Medicare 'Doc Fix'

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Late last night, a congressional committee approved a 10-month deal to extend a payroll tax cut and delay scheduled cuts to Medicare physician payments. The "doc fix" would be offset through cuts to certain hospital payments and a public health fund. New York Times et al.

Judge Rejects Dismissal of Nursing Strike Lawsuit

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Friday, a federal judge rejected the California Nurses Association's motion to dismiss a lawsuit that Kaiser Permanente filed against the union. The suit alleged that CNA violated a no-strike clause in its contract when it participated in a one-day strike in September 2011. The judge said the contract is "ambiguous" but declined to find that Kaiser lacks the right to file the suit. Sacramento Business Journal.

California Lags in Nurse-to-Resident Ratio Despite Increase in Nursing School Graduates

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Deloras Jones of the California Institute for Nursing & Health Care, Pamela Lassetter of the Fresno Regional Workforce Investment Board and DeAnn McEwen of the California Nurses Association's Council of Presidents spoke with California Healthline about the state's nurse-to-resident ratio.

Brown Approves Law Reinstating State Registered Nursing Board

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Gov. Brown has signed a bill to reinstate California's Board of Registered Nursing. The board disbanded last month after Brown vetoed a bill to extend the board's authority because it included excessive pension benefits. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert."

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.

Sebelius Touts Medical School Loan Repayment Program

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

At the Eisner Pediatric and Family Medical Center in Los Angeles on Monday, HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced the availability of more than $9 million in funding to help medical students repay school loans. The loan repayment program provides up to $120,000 to students who agree to spending three years as primary care doctors in underserved areas. Los Angeles Times.

Riverside County, SEIU Local 721 Reach Tentative Deal

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Thursday, the Service Employees International Union Local 721 announced that it has reached a tentative agreement with Riverside County on behalf of about 5,800 county employees. The preliminary deal includes step pay increases over the next two years and an 8% cost-of-living increase over five years. The union -- which will begin sending ballots this week -- is urging members to approve the deal. Riverside Press-Enterprise.

Report: More California Doctors Are Submitting Electronic Prescriptions

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new report by Cal eConnect finds that about 25% of California physicians currently send prescriptions electronically, up from 3% in 2007. However, the report also notes that only about 16% of eligible prescriptions are sent electronically. Healthcare IT News, Cal eConnect report.

Many Doctors Withhold Truth From Their Patients, Study Finds

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new Health Affairs study finds that about one-third of doctors do not believe they should disclose all serious medical errors to patients. Meanwhile, about 11% of physicians said they had lied to a patient or a patient's guardian in the last year. HealthDay et al.

Medical Marijuana Advocates Push for Ballot Initiative

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

This week, a coalition of medical marijuana advocates hopes to begin a drive to gather about 500,000 signatures required for placing a proposal on the November ballot that would establish a state-administrated enforcement bureau to oversee entities that grow, distribute and test medical marijuana products. The initiative must be reviewed and approved by the state attorney general and secretary of state before the group can collect signatures. Sacramento Bee.

Committee Weighs New Strategies on Payroll Tax Cut, Medicare 'Doc Fix'

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A conference committee is considering new approaches to extend the payroll tax cut and delay planned Medicare physician payment cuts. Lawmakers hope to reach a deal before the end of February, when the previous two-month agreement expires. The Hill's "Healthwatch" et al.

Calif. Nurses Union's Tactics Raise Questions, Concerns

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A confluence of factors such as a growing shortage of nurses and reduced funding for nursing education programs has given the California Nurses Association greater political clout and bargaining power. In recent months, CNA has participated in several one-day strikes in support of other hospital employees who are in the midst of tough contract negotiations. Critics say the union's tactics are putting patient care at risk. Ventura County Star.

BLS Data: Health Care Sector Added 30,900 Jobs in Jan.

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The U.S. health care sector added 30,900 jobs in January, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics employment data. Ambulatory health care services added 12,900 positions, and hospitals added 12,700 positions, according to the data. New York Times, Wall Street Journal.

Rep. Camp Airs Concerns About Plan To Put War Savings Toward 'Doc Fix'

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

House Ways and Means Committee Chair Dave Camp says a panel tasked with extending a payroll tax cut and delaying Medicare payment cuts might lack authority to fund such measures with savings from ending the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Kaiser Health News' "Capsules" et al.

Few People Aware of Medical Review Program

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

It has been 11 years since California launched its Independent Medical Review program, an appeals process that allows Californians to challenge denial or delay of coverage by private health care insurers.

In the Capitol Building in Sacramento yesterday, a policy briefing laid out the findings of a new report on IMR that includes praise for its effectiveness and some recommendations on how to make the program stronger.

The briefing was sponsored by the California HealthCare Foundation, which commissioned the report and publishes California Healthline.

Why We Can't Get National Malpractice Reform

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

National medical malpractice reform has been stalled for years, and a newly released White House memo helps underscore why federal efforts have been a non-starter.

Officials Dispute Size of Kaiser Permanente Worker Strike

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Officials from Kaiser Permanente and the National Union of Healthcare Workers offered conflicting reports on the number of employees who participated in a one-day strike on Tuesday. NUHW held the strike over proposed cuts to health and retirement benefits for mental health and psychiatric care workers. The California Nurses Association-National Nurses United and Stationary Engineers Local 39 union agreed to join the walkout in sympathy. Sacramento Business Journal, San Jose Mercury News.

Report: Data Lacking on Physicians Leaving Medicare

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Medicare contractors do not adequately track the number of physicians who opt out of the program, making it difficult to determine their reasons for leaving, according to a report from the HHS Office of Inspector General. The number of physicians who opted out of Medicare increased annually between 2006 and 2010, but investigators could not determine why physicians were leaving Medicare because of insufficient data. MedPage Today, Modern Healthcare.

Lawmakers Advance Bills on Physical Therapy, Hospital Smoking Ban

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The California Assembly has passed a bill to expand an existing hospital smoking ban to include campuses. Meanwhile, the Senate has cleared legislation to let consumers seek care from physical therapists without referrals. Los Angeles Times' "PolitiCal," AP/San Francisco Chronicle.

Judge Bars Riverside County Health Workers From Strike

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Monday, Judge John Vineyard issued a temporary restraining order prohibiting 248 Riverside County health care workers from joining a one-day strike planned for Tuesday by the Service Employees International Union Local 721 after the county argued that the workers' jobs were vital. The workers included nurses at the Riverside County Regional Medical Center and jail facilities. However, Vineyard said that 17 other health care workers -- such as clinical lab scientists and operating scrub techs -- could join the walkout. Riverside Press-Enterprise.

SEIU Members Plan One-Day Walkout in Riverside County

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Members of the Service Employees International Union Local 721 have informed Riverside County that they are planning a strike on Tuesday to protest contract conditions imposed by the county. The union represents about 5,800 county employees, including 274 nurses, laboratory technicians and other health care professionals. Riverside County Superior Court has scheduled a hearing Monday morning to hear an appeal from county officials to bar some health care professionals from striking. KPCC's "KPCC News," Riverside Press-Enterprise.

Kaiser Workers Set To Hold One-Day Strike on Tuesday

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, the National Union of Healthcare Workers plans to hold a one-day strike at Kaiser Permanente hospitals over proposed cuts to health and retirement benefits and long wait times for psychiatric care. In addition to the 4,000 NUHW members, about 17,000 members of the California Nurses Association and 650 members of the Stationary Engineers Local 39 plan to strike in sympathy. Kaiser facilities plan to remain open during the walkout. San Francisco Chronicle.

Editorial Hails Reform Law's Payment Disclosure Provision

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A Los Angeles Times editorial states that a proposed rule stemming from the federal health reform law "that requires the makers of drugs and medical devices to disclose most payments and gifts to physicians" on a searchable public website "would both protect patients and reduce medical costs." It notes that "the website will be a force for good even if few patients examine it" because "[w]atchdog organizations and news reporters will use it" to find "potentially troubling behavior." Los Angeles Times.

State Gets 'D' Grade in Report Card Analyzing Nurse-to-Resident Ratio

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The California Institute for Nursing and Health Care has analyzed the ratio of working registered nurses to residents. The report card gave the state a "D" for having 644.4 nurses per 100,000 people, compared with the national average of 859.9 per 100,000. Fresno Bee, CINHC release.

Fresno County Labor Walkout Affects Neediest Residents

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Some of the neediest Fresno County residents were unable to access welfare workers, family counselors or health care providers during a three-day strike this week involving about 2,000 county workers. Members of the Service Employees International Union and California Nurses Association went on strike over pay cuts of at least 9%. Fresno Bee.

Officials Raise Concerns Over Disbanding of Calif. Registered Nurse Board

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Some officials are raising concerns that the disbanding of the California Board of Registered Nursing could negatively affect the public. State officials say that the board's investigative work is continuing and that the public should not be concerned. California Watch.

Conference Committee Discusses Payroll Tax Cut, Medicare 'Doc Fix'

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, a bipartisan conference committee met to discuss a yearlong measure to extend a payroll tax cut and delay scheduled reductions to Medicare physician payments. A short-term deal on the payroll tax cut and Medicare "doc fix" expires at the end of next month. AP/U-T San Diego et al.

Three Unions Announce One-Day Strike at Kaiser Over Labor Negotiations

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The National Union of Healthcare Workers is planning a Jan. 31 walkout at Kaiser Permanente hospitals in protest of labor issues. The California Nurses Association and Stationary Engineers Local 39 said that they will join in solidarity. Sacramento Bee, Sacramento Business Journal.

Stanford Linking Up With Medical Groups for Not-for-Profit Alliance

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Stanford Hospital & Clinics recently has affiliated with several medical practices as part of its not-for-profit University HealthCare Alliance. The alliance could increase competition for other organizations such as Kaiser Permanente and Sutter Health. San Francisco Business Times.

Nurses Union Participates in Fresno County Labor Walkout

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Members of the California Nurses Association joined a three-day labor strike that began on Monday in Fresno County. The strike was planned by the 4,100-member Service Employees International Union over a new contract that includes pay cuts. CNA officials said county nurses face similar pay cuts of at least 10%. Meanwhile, Fresno County officials said they have taken steps to prevent possible disruptions to public health and social services during the strike. Fresno Business Journal, Fresno Bee.

Providence Health's Hospital-Doctor Alliance Sees High Participation

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Providence Health & Services' alliance for hospitals and physicians has garnered significant response since it was announced last fall. Nearly 670 physicians have agreed to participate, higher than estimates that 250 would participate. Payers & Providers.

Lawmakers Seek Smooth Passage of Longer-Term Medicare 'Doc Fix' Bill

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Democrats and Republicans both have agreed to concessions to facilitate the passage of a yearlong measure that would extend a payroll tax cut and delay scheduled reductions to Medicare physician reimbursements. The current two-month "doc fix" expires at the end of next month. New York Times et al.

Health Reform Will Change Hospitals' Labor Demands, Report Says

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A survey by Towers Watson finds that the federal health reform law will significantly change labor demands for hospitals in California and nationwide. Hospitals that are not preparing for the changes could be negatively affected, according to the firm. Payers & Providers.

State Health Agency Releases Reports on Hospital Infections

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The California Department of Public Health has released reports on infection rates at state hospitals. The reports also detail information about infection prevention practices and influenza vaccination rates at hospitals. Chico Enterprise-Record et al.

Sutter Health Makes $400M Investment Into Its Retirement Plan

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Sutter Health has announced that it contributed $400 million into its retirement plan and that the plan is now fully funded for its 45,000 workers. However, a California Nurses Association official states that the pension plan remains inadequate. San Francisco Business Times, Sacramento Bee.

Physician Group Guidelines Urge Doctors To Weigh Costs

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The American College of Physicians has taken a new position on cost control, urging physicians to practice "parsimonious" treatment. In the sixth edition of ACP's Ethics Manual, the group emphasizes each physician's duty to "practice effective and efficient health care, and to use health care resources responsibly." ACP notes that "[p]arsimonious care that utilizes the most efficient means to effectively diagnose a condition and treat a patient respects the need to use resources wisely and to help ensure that resources are equitably available." According to ACP President Virginia Hood, the guidelines are intended to reduce overall health care costs and improve patient care. NPR's "Shots," MedPage Today.

Editorial Pushes Flu Shots or Masks for Hospital Workers

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

"If California hospitals were graded on the percentage of their workers who get flu shots, many would get a 'D' and some would flunk," a San Jose Mercury News editorial states. The editorial cites a recent survey that found "only 64.3% of hospital employees got a flu vaccination in the 2010-2011 season," noting, "Those poor marks mean patients are just being exposed to viruses that can be lethal to them if they're already weakened by other illnesses." The editorial concludes that for health care professionals, "it's fair to require the vaccine or the alternative, a mask." San Jose Mercury News.

Obama Signs Two-Month Reprieve for Medicare Reimbursement Cuts

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Dec. 23, President Obama signed a two-month payroll tax cut extension that includes a two-month delay to scheduled Medicare payment cuts for physicians. A conference committee is expected to resume work on a longer-term deal. New York Times et al.

Ateev Mehrotra of RAND Corporation Talks About the Growth Potential of Retail Clinics

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Ateev Mehrotra, a policy analyst at the RAND Corporation, spoke with California Healthline about how the demand for retail clinics might increase in response to a growing shortage of primary care providers and a nationwide push to lower health care costs.

Calif. Leads U.S. in Retaining Medical School Graduates

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 08:00:00 GMT

In 2010, California had the highest retention rate for medical school graduates, according to a recent report from the Association of American Medical Colleges. Of the medical and osteopathic students who received their undergraduate medical education in California, 67.5% remained in the state to practice, the report found. Researchers noted that for all states, the median retention rate for medical school graduates increased by two percentage points in 2010. Fierce Healthcare.