California Healthline: Health Care Costs

State's Request To Take Over Prison Health Care Denied

Thu, 31 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Thelton Henderson denied California's request to resume oversight of California's prison health care system. In 2006, a federal receiver was appointed to oversee the state's prison health care system because inadequate care led to an average of one inmate death per week. Henderson ruled that the receivership will stay in place until a 2008 inmate health care improvement plan is accomplished or until the state can demonstrate that it can provide adequate medical care. San Francisco Chronicle, KPCC's "KPCC News."

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

Thu, 31 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

If ACA Stands, What California Stands To Gain (or Lose)

Wed, 30 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Supreme Court's ruling on ObamaCare is imminent, and most analysts have focused on what happens if the law gets struck down. Here's a reminder of what comes next if the law is allowed to stand.

Insurers Shifting Greater Cost Share of Specialty Rx Drugs to Enrollees

Tue, 29 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

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.

Study Highlights Benefits of Trained Medical Interpreters

Thu, 24 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Trained medical interpreters make half as many clinically significant interpreting errors as "ad hoc interpreters," such as family members, according to a study published in the Annals of Emergency Medicine. According to the study, professionally trained interpreters with at least 100 hours of training had a 2% proportion of errors with clinical significance, compared with 12% for professional interpreters with fewer than 100 hours of training and 22% for ad hoc interpreters. Kaiser Health News/Washington Post.

Does Health Care's Profit Motive Hurt More Than it Helps?

Wed, 23 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The federal health care law has created a whole new set of financial incentives, and some less-appealing implications -- like several marketers pitching hospice care as a "cost-cutter" for hospitals -- are now coming to light.

Poll Finds Most Voters See Health Care Costs as Important Concern

Tue, 22 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

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

Mon, 21 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

Survey: Health Costs a Top Issue for S.F. Small Businesses

Fri, 18 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Sixty-six percent of small business owners in the San Francisco Bay Area who responded to a Bank of America survey said that employee health care costs are a key concern relating to the economy's effects on their business. At least 52% said they were confident about economic improvement in the next 12 months. San Francisco Business Times' "Bay Area BizTalk."

Senate Rejects Several Republican-Supported FY 2013 Budget Plans

Thu, 17 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

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

Wed, 16 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

Four Myths About ObamaCare That Just Won't Die

Wed, 16 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Has any piece of major legislation ever engendered as much misinformation? More than two years after the Affordable Care Act passed, both critics and supporters are still telling tall tales -- and coming up with new ones, too.

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.

Sacramento's Access Leisure Program on Chopping Block

Fri, 11 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On May 15, the Sacramento Department of Parks and Recreation will deliver to the city council a budget plan that includes a proposal to end the city's Access Leisure program for adults and teens with developmental disabilities. The program's budget faces a shortage of more than $360,000 after raising only about $44,300 through fundraising and attendance fees. Sacramento Bee.

Lower Copayments Driving Increased ED Use, Study Finds

Fri, 11 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Relatively low out-of-pocket costs for emergency department services compared with primary care services could be causing overutilization of EDs, according to a study by employee benefits management firm Highroads and the Corporate Executive Board. The study also found minimal difference in out-of-pocket costs between urgent care and primary care services, which, coupled with the longer hours of urgent care clinics, could be driving more visits to urgent care facilities than primary care physician offices. Payers & Providers.

State Loses Bid To Cut FQHC Rates, Restructure Pay System

Thu, 10 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Two budget subcommittees recently rejected an attempt by the state Department of Health Care Services to rework the way it pays federally qualified health centers and rural health clinics. The proposal included a funding cut of 10%, or about $100 million, to those centers.

Report: California Health Care Spending Grows, Rate Slows

Thu, 10 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

Study: Consumer-Driven Health Plans Could Cut Costs

Wed, 09 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Consumer-directed health insurance plans -- which offer high-deductible coverage and often feature a health savings account -- could reduce health spending by as much as $57 billion annually if 50% of the U.S. workforce signed up for them, according to a RAND study published Monday in the journal Health Affairs. However, researchers expressed uncertainty about whether the cutbacks in care that CDPs trigger could lead to poorer health or health emergencies in the future. AP/San Francisco Chronicle, The Hill's "Healthwatch."

Legislation Would Help Credit Ratings Sunk by Medical Debt

Wed, 09 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Congress is considering legislation that would aid consumers who have low credit scores as a result of issues related to medical bills and medical debt. Collection agencies are allowed to keep records of medical debt on file for seven years, but the Senate bill would require those debts to be scrubbed within 45 days of being settled or paid. The House bill only would affect medical debts up to $2,500. New York Times.

Study: Reported Charges Vary Between California Hospitals

Tue, 08 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

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

Tue, 08 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

Concerns Raised About Access to Primary Care in Sacramento County

Tue, 08 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

Massachusetts Bill Aims To Help Control Rise in Health Care Spending

Mon, 07 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

Report: Recession Fuels $70B Jump in Medicaid Spending

Mon, 07 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

Assembly Panel OKs Bill To Limit Hospital Execs' Payouts

Mon, 07 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Wednesday, the Assembly Committee on Local Government approved a bill, by Assembly member Luis Alejo, that would prohibit taxpayer-funded health care districts from offering financial perks to retiring executives that are not offered to other employees. The measure comes after the Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System gave its outgoing CEO a $4.9 million retirement and severance package last year. The bill now goes to the full Assembly. Bay Citizen.

Brown Order Aims To Improve Californians' Health, Reduce Costs

Mon, 07 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

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

Thu, 03 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

Not-for-Profit Hospitals Draw Scrutiny Over Charity Care

Wed, 02 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

New rules implemented under the federal health reform law seek to clarify how not-for-profit hospitals must report charity care and provide health care services to low-income patients. However, the rules are not being actively enforced, allowing some not-for-profit hospitals to seek payment from patients who struggle to pay hospital bills. NPR's "Shots."

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.

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.

Insurance Rate Regulation Ballot Proposal Draws Support

Tue, 01 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Monday, Consumer Watchdog reported $1.5 million in contributions, including donations from several high-profile business leaders, for a proposed ballot measure that would give the California Department of Insurance greater regulation of health insurance rates. A group of insurers, hospitals, doctors and business groups who oppose the proposal has reported $367,200 in donations. Los Angeles Times.

S.F. Spinal Implant Billing Firm Faces Fraud Charges

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Wednesday, Santa Clara County prosecutors filed nine felony fraud charges against two officials at Implantium -- a San Francisco-based firm -- for allegedly overbilling for spinal implants for government employees. Prosecutors said the invoices had been marked up by tens of thousands of dollars. AP/San Francisco Chronicle, San Jose Mercury News.

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.

WellPoint Reports Drop in Q1 Profit, Cites Rising Health Care Costs

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

WellPoint -- the second-largest insurer in the U.S. -- has reported an 8% drop in first-quarter profits. The company said lower enrollment and rising health care costs contributed to the loss, in addition to higher-than-expected claims from a Medicare plan. Los Angeles Times.

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.

Medicare Hospital Trust Fund Still Expected To Be Insolvent in 2024

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A report from the board of trustees for Medicare and Social Security predicts that Medicare's hospital insurance trust fund will become insolvent in 2024. The projected insolvency date has stayed stable since last year. AP/Washington Post et al.

Medicare Trustees To Release Report; Program Still Facing Insolvency

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Medicare trustees' annual financial reports are scheduled to be released today. Although growth in Medicare spending has slowed, the program still is headed toward insolvency. About 10,000 baby boomers become eligible for Medicare each day. AP/San Francisco Chronicle.

GAO Report: U.S. Should Abandon Bonus Program for Medicare Advantage

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new report from the Government Accountability Office calls for canceling a demonstration program that provides quality bonus payments to Medicare Advantage plans. The report contends that the program is unlikely to "produce meaningful results." New York Times et al.

Report: State Prison Health Care Needs Independent Oversight

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A state report recommends that California allow independent monitoring of prison health care when a federal receivership ends, noting that improvements could be lost without continued oversight. AP/San Francisco Chronicle, Los Angeles Times' "PolitiCal."

Changes to San Diego Retiree Health Plan To Save $802M

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A plan to shift many San Diego workers to a city-funded, 401(k)-like health savings plan -- instead of a guaranteed benefit plan upon retirement -- will save the city $802 million over the next 25 years, according to San Diego City Chief Operating Officer Jay Goldstone. Goldstone said more workers opted for the new plan, which raised the projected savings from $714 million. U-T San Diego.

Medicare Competitive Bidding Pilot Reduced Costs by 42%, CMS Says

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new CMS report finds that a yearlong Medicare competitive bidding pilot program conducted in nine metropolitan areas curbed costs by 42% without reducing care quality. However, the American Association for Homecare disputed the report's findings. New York Times et al.

Columnist Criticizes Reform Law for 'Crazy Spending'

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Syndicated columnist Jay Ambrose argues that the federal health reform law's contraception coverage provision "sums up part of what [the law] is about: interventions helping some by the most autocratic, complicated, ineffective means possible while hurting many others." He writes, "But Obamacare is also about crazy spending," adding, "Are there lifeboats for this fiscal Titanic of ours? We could go under." Orange County Register.

House Uses Procedural Move to Approve Rep. Ryan's Budget Proposal

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

With no support from Democrats, the House yesterday used a procedural move to pass Rep. Paul Ryan's fiscal year 2013 budget proposal. Meanwhile, Sen. Kent Conrad intends to introduce a version of the Simpson-Bowles bipartisan budget plan. Los Angeles Times et al.

A Second Opinion on Medicare 'Double Counting'

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Myth or fact: There's no such thing as an honest Medicare budget. Why the latest blow-up over health care accounting is symptomatic of a larger problem.

Hospital Deal Could Lead to Higher Health Costs in S.F.

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Some San Francisco officials are concerned that a deal between Mayor Ed Lee and the California Pacific Medical Center to build a 555-bed hospital on Cathedral Hill could threaten the city's efforts to control health care costs. Officials say they are worried that some of the cost of the $2.5 billion project could be passed along to residents. San Francisco Chronicle.

Lawmakers To Hold Slew of Hearings on Expiring Health Care Policies

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Today, Congress returned from recess to a series of hearings aimed at addressing expiring health care policies. Lawmakers will examine an update to prescription drug and medical device user fees, medical malpractice legislation and other issues. The Hill's "Healthwatch."

Californians Struggle To Find Accurate Medical Pricing

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

It is difficult for California residents to determine the cost of common medical procedures. Although hospitals are required by law to publish average charges for certain procedures, the prices often are not what patients actually pay. Los Angeles Times.

Experts See Challenges in New Medicare Payment System for Physicians

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Physician Value-Based Payment Modifier program, set to begin in 2015, will give higher payments to Medicare physicians who provide high-quality care at a lower cost. Experts say it will be difficult to accurately assess doctors' quality of care. Kaiser Health News/Washington Post.

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.

Lawmakers Ask IRS To Explain Plans for Using Reform Law Funding

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Two House Republicans have sent a letter asking the Internal Revenue Service to explain how it plans to use the $500 million it is receiving for the implementation of the health reform law. The lawmakers asked IRS to respond by April 27. The Hill's "Healthwatch," Washington Times.

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.

Critics Say Health Districts Should Spend More on Public Health

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

At an oversight committee hearing yesterday, critics of tax-supported health districts said the entities should spend more on public health initiatives. Lawmakers might consider legislation to restrict how the districts spend money. The Bay Citizen.

U.S. Must Address Health Care Costs, Opinion Piece Says

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In an opinion piece for the Los Angeles Times' "Opinion L.A.," Art Kellermann -- a physician and vice president at Rand Health -- writes that the U.S. "spends far more on health care -- per capita and as a percentage of GDP -- than any other nation on Earth." He adds, "Only by confronting the brutal facts ... can we hope to improve America's costly and underperforming health care system into the high-value system Americans need and deserve." Los Angeles Times' "Opinion L.A."

Health Reform To Add Billions to Deficit Over 10 Years, Report Says

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A report released today by the GOP trustee for Medicare and Social Security estimates that the health reform law will add more than $340 billion to the federal deficit over the next 10 years. The Obama administration criticized the report's calculation methods. Reuters et al.

Study Links Robotic-Assisted Surgeries to Better Outcomes

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A study by the UCLA School of Medicine finds that patients who underwent robotic-assisted surgeries to remove cancerous bladders had lower mortality and complication rates than those who underwent traditional surgeries. However, the study -- which was partly funded by the Department of Defense -- notes that the robotic procedures cost an average of $3,000 more than traditional surgeries. Payers & Providers.

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.

San Diego Seeks Ways To Manage Frequent Users of Emergency Services

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

San Diego officials are working to address the frequent use of emergency services by a largely homeless population. According to experts, frequent emergency service users need access to better coordinated health care and more permanent housing options. U-T San Diego.

President To Criticize Ryan's GOP Budget Plan as 'Social Darwinism'

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

According to the White House, President Obama in a speech today is expected to say that Rep. Paul Ryan's budget proposal is "nothing but thinly-veiled social Darwinism." Ryan's plan would repeal the health reform law and alter Medicare and Medicaid. Washington Post's "44" et al.

House Approves Ryan's FY 2013 Budget Proposal, Axes Separate GOP Plan

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, the House approved House Budget Committee Chair Paul Ryan's fiscal year 2013 budget proposal, which would repeal the health reform law and alter Medicaid and Medicare. The House rejected a budget plan by the Republican Study Committee. Wall Street Journal et al.

House Rejects Several Alternative Fiscal Year 2013 Budget Proposals

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, the House voted 382-38 to reject a bipartisan budget plan that was introduced as an alternative to Rep. Paul Ryan's fiscal year 2013 budget blueprint and unanimously voted down a proposal based on President Obama's $3.6 trillion budget plan. AP/U-T San Diego et al.

Health Trust for California Schools To Report Travel

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

This week, the Los Angeles attorney for the California Schools Voluntary Employees Benefits Association -- which provides health care and other benefits to school districts in California and across the U.S. -- said the not-for-profit health insurance trust's board has been asked to report its travel benefits on state disclosure forms and revise its past filings to reflect that information. U-T San Diego.

Republicans Promoting Health Care Changes in Ryan's Budget Blueprint

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

GOP lawmakers are working to build support for House Budget Committee Chair Paul Ryan's new budget plan, which would repeal the health reform law and alter Medicare and Medicaid. Republicans aim to present the plan as the only option for saving Medicare. Washington Post et al.

House Passes Measure To Repeal Independent Payment Advisory Board

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, the House approved legislation that would repeal the federal health reform law's Independent Payment Advisory Board. The measure is not expected to clear the Senate, and President Obama has vowed to veto the legislation if it reaches his desk. AP/USA Today et al.

Procedural House Vote Advances Bill To Repeal Health Reform's IPAB

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, the House took a procedural vote to advance a bill that would repeal the federal health reform law's Independent Payment Advisory Board. The bill is expected to pass the House in a final floor vote but is unlikely to receive Senate approval. The Hill's "Healthwatch."

Californians Concerned About Health Care Costs, New Survey Finds

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new survey from the California HealthCare Foundation finds that many residents are worried about health costs but that only 25% of respondents consider prices before seeking care. Nearly 50% of survey respondents said they do not know their deductible. HealthyCal, CHCF survey.

Anthem Blue Cross Will Reduce Planned Premium Rate Increases

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Anthem Blue Cross has agreed to lower premium rate increases for about 600,000 policyholders from an average of 10.4% to 8.2%. State officials sought the lower rate hike after questioning Anthem's estimates for medical expenses. 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.

House To Consider Bill To Repeal Reform Law's Payment Advisory Board

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Today, the House is scheduled to consider legislation that would repeal the Independent Payment Advisory Board created under the federal health reform law. President Obama has pledged to veto the IPAB repeal measure if it reaches his desk. The Hill's "Healthwatch" et al.

CalPERS Oversight Is Lacking, Recent Survey on Accountability Says

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A survey by the Center for Public Integrity and Public Radio International finds that oversight of CalPERS is lacking. Critics want more independent guidance on the CalPERS board, noting that it is overrepresented by individuals who could benefit from its decisions. KPCC's "KPCC News."

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."

Editorial: CDC Study Shows Need for Health Reform Law

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A recent CDC survey finding that 20% of U.S. families are struggling to pay medical bills reveals that the U.S. must continue efforts to implement the federal health reform law, a San Jose Mercury News editorial argues. According to the editorial, the reform law is "imperfect," but "at least California has a plan in place to significantly reduce the number of uninsured and to begin lowering costs." The editorial concludes, "That's more than the states fighting so hard to overturn" the law can say. San Jose Mercury News.

CalPERS Acknowledges Lower Returns, Higher Costs to Taxpayers

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, a CalPERS board voted to lower its estimated rate of investment return from 7.75% to 7.5%. The change means the state will have to pay $303 million more to cover promised public employee pensions. San Jose Mercury News, Capital Public Radio's "KXJZ News."

Report: Health System Quality Varies Among Calif. Communities

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A Commonwealth Fund report finds that communities vary in health system quality, with higher income areas mostly outperforming lower income areas. Santa Rosa and San Mateo ranked in the top 10 U.S. regions for health system performance. Los Angeles Times et al.

Reform Law Expected To Cost Less, Insure Fewer People Than Projected

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The health reform law's insurance coverage provisions are expected to cost less than projected over the next decade but provide coverage for fewer U.S. residents than previously estimated, according to a Congressional Budget Office report. The Hill's "Healthwatch" et al.

CBO: Medicare Spending To Nearly Double Over Next Decade to $1.058T

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Congressional Budget Office estimates that Medicare spending will nearly double from $563.3 billion in fiscal year 2011 to $1.058 trillion in fiscal year 2022. It also estimates that Medicaid spending will jump from $275 billion in FY 2011 to $622 billion in FY 2022. Modern Healthcare.

Survey: Small Business Owners Worry About Health Care Costs

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A survey finds that most California small business owners are worried about rising health care costs. However, findings show that many respondents were unaware of federal assistance for offering worker health benefits. Sacramento Business Journal.

Workers' Comp Costs Up Slightly in 2011, Report Finds

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The average cost of workers' compensation insurance for California employers increased slightly from $2.32 per $100 of payroll in 2010 to $2.37 in 2011, while payouts to injured workers and their health care providers increased from $7.8 billion in 2010 to $8.1 billion in 2011, according to the Workers' Compensation Insurance Rating Bureau's annual report. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert."

Hospital Costs for Life-Saving Care Rising in Northern Calif.

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Hospital costs associated with complicated life-saving procedures are increasing faster than costs for routine care in Northern California. According to a Sacramento Bee review of data from the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development, the number of hospital stays in the region that cost $1 million or more increased by 700% over the past 10 years, from 430 in 2000 to nearly 3,000 in 2010. Health experts and hospital officials said they expect continued growth in high-cost hospital treatments, due in part to the care needs of the state's aging population. Sacramento Bee.

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.

Health Care Districts Spending Less on Aiding Uninsured Residents

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Certain publicly operated health care districts are spending more of their reserves on administrative expenses than on care resources for uninsured residents. Critics say the districts may no longer be the best option for improving care in communities. Bay Citizen.

Exemptions Included in SEIU's Proposed Ballot Measures Raise Queries

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Service Employees International Union has proposed two ballot measures that aim to limit hospital billing and boost charity care. However, critics note that the measures would exempt hospitals where many union members work. Los Angeles Times, Sacramento Bee.

House Ways and Means Committee Approves IPAB Repeal Measure

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The House Ways and Means Committee has passed a bill to repeal the health reform law's Independent Payment Advisory Board. A Congressional Budget Office report estimates that repealing IPAB would add $3.1 billion to the deficit over a decade. The Hill's "Healthwatch" et al.

Hollywood Union Contract Talks To Focus on Health Costs

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Because of rising medical costs, health and pension benefits are expected to dominate contract negotiations between the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers. The groups began contract negotiations on Wednesday and have set aside four weeks for the discussions. Los Angeles Times.

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.

CDC Survey: Many U.S. Families Struggling To Pay Their Medical Bills

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A CDC survey finds that one in five U.S. residents are in families who struggled to pay medical bills during the first half of 2011. About 45.8% of survey respondents with incomes just above the poverty line had trouble paying medical bills. HealthDay/Philadelphia Inquirer et al.

House Committee OKs Bill To Repeal Reform Law's Payment Board

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, the House Energy and Commerce Committee passed legislation that would repeal the federal health reform law's Independent Payment Advisory Board. The measure now goes to the House Rules and Ways and Means committees for mark ups. The Hill's "Healthwatch" et al.

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.

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.

Health Reform in California Inevitable, Health Leaders Say

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Health industry officials say that health care reform will happen in California regardless of whether the federal overhaul is upheld. They note that higher costs and lower reimbursements necessitate a statewide overhaul. Sacramento Business Journal.

Most Medical Services Are More Costly in U.S. Than in Other Countries

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A report by the International Federation of Health Plans finds that U.S. residents pay more than residents of other countries for most medical services. According to the report, a routine physician appointment costs about $89 in the U.S. and about $11 in Spain. Washington Post 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.

California Hospitals Seek To Treat Fewer Patients Under Federal Overhaul

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

California hospitals are trying to keep patients out of their facilities in preparation for new federal health reform law rules. The law provides higher reimbursements for hospitals with better patient outcomes and penalizes facilities for preventable readmissions. Los Angeles Times.

House Panel OKs Bill To Repeal Reform Law's Payment Advisory Board

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A House subcommittee has voted to pass a bill that would repeal the Independent Payment Advisory Board created by the federal health reform law. Meanwhile, the Obama administration has started considering candidates to serve on the panel. The Hill's "Healthwatch" et al.

House GOP Lawmakers Question Sebelius on Health Reform, IPAB

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

During House hearings on President Obama's fiscal year 2013 budget plan, Republicans criticized the health reform law and questioned HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius about the need for the Independent Payment Advisory Board. The Hill's "Healthwatch," National Journal.

Costs Higher Than Expected for Calif. High-Risk Pool

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Health care costs for California's temporary high-risk insurance program have reached more than $37,000 per patient annually, according to program administrators. The program -- established in 2010 under the federal health reform law -- was expected to cost roughly $12,000 per patient annually. The higher-than-expected prices could be driven by demand for coverage of various tests and treatments that patients have waited to obtain. KQED's "The California Report."

Kaiser Ordered To Cover Developmental Therapy for Certain Patients

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

California regulators have ordered Kaiser Permanente Foundation Health Plan to stop denying occupational, physical and speech therapy to patients who lack physical or mental disabilities. A Kaiser official said regulators have misunderstood the insurer's coverage policies. Contra Costa Times.

Chiang: Retiree Health Costs To Top $62B Over 30 Years

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Last week, state Controller John Chiang released a new report that estimates that providing health care and dental benefits to state retirees will cost $62.1 billion over 30 years. Chiang urged the state to set aside extra funding to pay down retiree health costs. He noted that if the state paid an additional $160 million in obligations, it would shave $2.7 billion off the unfunded liability. Sacramento Bee's "The State Worker."