California Healthline: Patient Safety

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."

Senate Unanimously Supports Breast Tissue Notification Bill

Thu, 31 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, the California Senate voted 39-0 to pass a bill -- by Sen. Joe Simitian -- that would require physicians to inform women if they have dense breast tissue, which can make cancer harder to detect. Last year, Gov. Brown vetoed a similar bill, which he and many physicians said could create unnecessary anxiety for the women. AP/U-T San Diego.

Humboldt County Senior Group Nabs Settlement Funds

Wed, 30 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Area 1 Agency on Aging in Humboldt County will receive $198,078 under a 2010 settlement in a class-action lawsuit against nursing home chain Skilled Healthcare for allegedly failing to provide sufficient staffing levels for patients at 22 facilities, including five in Humboldt County. A1AA Programs Director Todd Metcalf said the funds will help expand the agency's caregiver training sessions, senior information and assistance counseling and volunteer driver transportation assistance to medical appointments. Eureka Times-Standard.

FDA Warns Physicians, Consumers About Sales of Counterfeit Adderall

Wed, 30 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

Calif. Lawmaker Targets Use of Flame-Retardant Chemicals

Wed, 30 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

California Sen. Mark Leno said he intends to introduce a resolution in the state Senate that would support efforts in Congress to scrutinize the use of flame-retardant chemicals in couches and other household products. An investigation by the Chicago Tribune recently uncovered disingenuous testimony from chemical company lobbyists to California lawmakers and found that the risks associated with the chemicals outweigh the benefits. California Watch.

Editorial: Vaccine Counseling Bill Merits 'Cautious Support'

Tue, 29 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A San Jose Mercury News editorial argues that a bill that would require parents to talk to a licensed health professional before opting out of immunizations for their children "deserves cautious support." The editorial states, "Lawmakers are right to have reservations about any law forcing a parent to take action in regard to their child's health. But the public safety risks of unvaccinated children cannot be ignored." San Jose Mercury News.

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

Fri, 25 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

Second Insurer Joins Probe of Lap-Band Surgery Centers

Thu, 24 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Anthem Blue Cross is working with authorities to investigate the business practices of weight-loss surgery centers associated with the 1-800-GET-THIN marketing initiative, making it the second insurer to conduct a probe into possible medical fraud related to the Lap-Band weight-loss surgery. In January, Aetna announced that it is conducting a similar investigation. KPCC's "KPCC News."

Calif. Sees Spike in Confined Workplace-Related Fatalities

Thu, 24 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In 2011, seven California workers died while working in a confined space, compared with two deaths annually between 2008 and 2010, according to a report by the occupational health and safety advocacy organization Worksafe. Experts attribute the rise in fatalities to low awareness about the dangers of working in confined spaces and inadequate emergency rescue plans. California Watch.

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

Wed, 23 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

Bill on Vaccine Counseling for Parents Moves to Senate

Wed, 23 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In the next few weeks, the California Senate Health Committee will begin debating a bill that would require parents to talk to a licensed health professional before opting out of immunizations for their children. The Assembly approved the bill on a party-line vote. KQED's "The California Report."

Calif. Veterans Express Frustration Over Claims Processing Backlog

Tue, 22 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

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

Fri, 18 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

LAO: Oversight of Prison Health Care Could End Without Construction

Thu, 17 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

Calif. Lawmakers Reject Plan Curbing Nursing Home, Hospital Checks

Tue, 15 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

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

Wed, 09 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

Senators Launch Probe Into Drugmakers' Ties With Painkiller Groups

Wed, 09 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

California Sees Increase in Parents Seeking Exemptions From Vaccination Requirements

Wed, 09 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Oakland pediatrician Bruce Horwitz, Barbara Loe Fisher of the National Vaccine Information Center, John Talarico of the state Department of Public Health and a parent who plans to apply for a personal belief exemption spoke with California Healthline about the growing trend of parents seeking vaccine exemptions.

House Subcommittee OKs Measure To Extend FDA User-Fee Programs

Wed, 09 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

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

Reforms Slow for OPS Investigations of Patient Abuse at State Facilities

Wed, 02 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Reforms to improve patient abuse investigations are being enacted slowly at the Office of Protective Services, which monitors California's board-and-care institutions for patients with development disabilities. Efforts to retrain OPS staff might not start for months. California Watch.

IOM Calls for FDA To Scale Up Post-Approval Monitoring of Rx Drugs

Wed, 02 May 2012 08:00:00 GMT

An Institute of Medicine report recommends that FDA do more to monitor the safety of prescription drugs after they are on the market. According to the report, FDA should take a "life cycle" approach by conducting safety trials both before and after a drug is approved. Reuters et al.

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.

Senate Panel Approves Measure To Reauthorize FDA User Fee Programs

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee approved a bill to reauthorize user fees that drug and medical device makers pay to FDA for a quicker review of their products. A similar measure stalled in a House committee. The Hill's "Healthwatch" et al.

Editorial Praises Breast Cancer Screening Legislation

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A Santa Cruz Sentinel editorial commends Sen. Joe Simitian for reintroducing a bill that would "require doctors to alert women who have a breast cancer risk because their dense breast tissue is undetected by mammograms." According to the editorial, "Ignorance is not bliss -- it can cost a woman her life." It concludes that Gov. Brown should sign the bill into law. Santa Cruz Sentinel.

State Data Show Drop in Patient Deaths After Heart Bypass Surgeries

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

New state data show that deaths following heart bypass surgeries at California hospitals fell 34% from 2003 to 2009. Experts credit a state requirement that hospitals publicly report surgery results, as well improvements in cardiac care. San Francisco Chronicle.

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.

Lawmakers To Release Proposals To Extend FDA's User Fee Programs

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

This week, leaders of a House health subcommittee and a Senate health committee are expected to release a series of proposals to reauthorize FDA's prescription drug and medical device user fee programs. The programs are set to expire in September. Politico et al.

Prison Officials Release Plan To Reform System, Improve Inmate Care

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation has released a plan for reorganizing state prisons and improving health care services for inmates. The plan seeks to end federal oversight of prison health care by the end of 2013. AP/Contra Costa Times 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."

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."

Health Care-Associated Infection Rates Dropped in 2010, CDC Reports

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new report from CDC finds that rates of various health care-associated infections declined in 2010. Meanwhile, HHS has released a nine-point action plan aimed at further reducing health care-associated infection rates by leveraging health information technology and other strategies. Reuters et al.

CDC Report: Rate of California Home Births Increased by 37%

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new CDC report finds that the number of home births in California increased by 37% between 2004 and 2009. Experts say the increase might be because home births are sometimes less expensive or because women at times associate hospitals with negative experiences. HealthyCal.

Health Care Providers Report Rise in Health Data Breaches

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new report by HIMSS Analytics and Kroll Advisory Solutions finds that health care providers have experienced an increase in health data breaches over the past few years. However, the report also finds that this year's survey respondents expressed greater confidence than previous years' respondents in their readiness to handle such breaches. Healthcare IT News.

FDA Expected To Overhaul Device Safety Monitoring

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

This month, FDA is expected to unveil an improved medical device safety monitoring and reporting program that is aimed at identifying and removing faulty devices from the market earlier. The agency is facing pressure from physicians to strengthen the program after a wave of faulty heart-defibrillator wires were linked to patient injuries and deaths. Wall Street Journal.

'Student Athlete Bill of Rights' Stalls in Senate Committee

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A bill that would require the state's four major sports universities to continue to provide athletes who lose their athletic scholarships with an education, as well as medical care for any sports injuries, stalled in the state Senate Education Committee yesterday. Lawmakers appeared to favor the idea of the legislation, but they want to see proposed amendments in print before taking action on the bill. Sacramento Bee's "Capitol Alert."

Misuse of Prescription Painkillers Becoming More Widespread Among Young Californians

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Tom Lenox of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Michael Plopper of Sharp HealthCare Behavioral Health Services, Sherrie Rubin of the not-for-profit organization HOPE and Robert Wailes of the California Medical Association's board of trustees spoke with California Healthline about prescription drug misuse.

Low Participation Hurts Efficacy of Calif. Rx Drug Monitoring Program

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Experts say that low participation in California's prescription drug monitoring program has hindered its ability to combat prescription drug misuse. Budget cuts have eliminated nearly all state funding for the program, and physicians say the system is slow and needs upgrades. New York Times.

Harbor-UCLA Makes Changes After Failing Medicare Probes

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Last week, County Harbor-UCLA Medical Center officials said they have taken steps to improve patient care after failing Medicare inspections in recent years. They also said that inspectors who conducted a review in January found that problems cited during earlier visits had been resolved. Contra Costa Times.

Concerns Raised Over FDA, White House Clashes

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Industry analysts are concerned that the Obama administration's tendency to overrule FDA's regulatory decisions could diminish the agency's reputation for regulatory integrity and diligence. Daniel Carpenter, an FDA historian at Harvard University, said, "The politicization of the FDA could hurt not only consumer protection but industry profits as well." New York Times.

Federal Regulators Opt Not To Prohibit Use of Chemical Additive BPA

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Friday, FDA announced that it does not have sufficient scientific evidence to ban the use of the chemical bisphenol-A. However, agency officials say they are hopeful that FDA will release a more definitive ruling on the use of the additive later this year. Wall Street Journal et al.

Supreme Court Rejects Patent Protections for Certain Diagnostic Tests

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, the Supreme Court ruled that companies cannot obtain patent protection for screening tests that help doctors determine dosages, treatment options or disease risks. The case stems from a lawsuit that Prometheus Laboratories filed against Mayo Clinic. Reuters et al.

S.F. Firefighters Concerned About Aging Ambulance Fleet

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A San Francisco firefighters union has expressed concern that the city's aging ambulance fleet might pose safety risks for paramedics and the public. The union wants the city fire department to spend $6.8 million in state funds on new ambulances and other equipment, but the department says the ambulances are safe. AP/San Francisco Chronicle.

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.

Lawmakers at Hearing Call for Quick Changes to OPS Investigations

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Lawmakers say that changes must be made immediately to the Office of Protective Services' investigation procedures into patient injuries at state institutions. Speakers at the hearing suggested various OPS reforms, as well as closing the office. California Watch.

Alameda County Delays Vote on Rx Drug 'Take Back' Plan

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The Alameda County Board of Supervisors decided to delay a vote on an ordinance that would have made the county the first local government to require drugmakers to take back unused products. The move comes after a week of heavy lobbying by pharmaceutical companies that argued that the ordinance was unnecessary and would be a significant burden. Oakland Tribune.

Proposed Budget Cuts Could Affect 12,000 Caregivers Statewide

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Nearly 12,000 caregivers could be affected by Gov. Brown's proposed budget, which would cut $2.9 million in state funds from caregiver resource centers. If the cuts are enacted, some of the centers might have to close or reduce services, according to caregiver advocates. HealthyCal.

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.

State Instructs Modesto Clinic To Cease and Desist Operation

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The California Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs said a cease-and-desist order has been delivered to The Living Center clinic for drug and alcohol treatment in Modesto, which has operated for three months without a license. The clinic lost its license because state rules do not allow such facilities to continue operating if the building is sold to a different owner. The Living Center building was sold in December 2011. According to ADP, the clinic also is being investigated for complaints regarding patient treatment. Modesto Bee.

Hearing Examines Patient Care Under Medi-Cal Overhaul

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Witnesses testified at an Assembly hearing that Medi-Cal beneficiaries switching to managed care plans face obstacles to accessing care. They said treatments have been delayed and beneficiaries have been bumped off of organ transplant lists. California Watch.

Study: California's Follow-Up on Nursing Home Issues Inadequate

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

California's oversight of nursing home investigations is lacking, according to a federal report. Findings show that inspectors approved corrective-action plans for facilities that did not meet federal standards in 77% of cases. California Watch.

Group Seeks To Boost Stroke Care in San Joaquin County

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Mary Nicholson, a stroke survivor, has been working through her not-for-profit organization Healings in Motion to improve the quality of stroke care available in San Joaquin County. The not-for-profit group aims to boost awareness through education and outreach and to encourage the county's acute-care hospitals to become certified stroke centers. Stockton Record.

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.

Editorial: New Stockton Prison Medical Facility Is Not Enough

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

As "[m]assive" as a new prison medical facility in Stockton will be when it opens in December 2013, "it won't be enough to address the needs of an aging, sick prison population," according to a Stockton Record editorial. The editorial responds to a recent Legislative Analyst's Office report recommending that California halt all improvements to the state's prison medical system besides the Stockton facility. Stockton Record.

Advocates: Women's Needs Not Addressed in Prison Realignment Plan

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A new law that shifts low-level offenders from state prisons to county jails does not address the needs of female inmates, according to women's health advocates. They note that female prisoners often have unique needs, such as arranging child care. Contra Costa Times.

State Orders O.C. Drug Rehab Provider To Cease Operations

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The California Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs has ordered Morningside Recovery -- an Orange County drug and alcohol rehabilitation operator -- to stop treating patients while regulators decide whether to revoke its licenses. ADP recently found that the organization had been carless with prescription drugs and was operating beyond the scope of its licenses. The company was ordered to shut down as of Nov. 2, 2011, but Morningside facilities still are treating patients. A licensing hearing has been scheduled for May 21. Orange County Register, AP/Fresno Bee.

Alameda County Gives Initial OK to Rx Drug 'Take Back' Plan

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, the Alameda County Board of Supervisors voted 4-0 to grant preliminary approval to a proposal that would make pharmaceutical drugmakers responsible for the proper disposal of unused and expired medications. If the board grants final approval to the plan during a March 13 vote, the county would be the first in the nation to implement a pharmaceutical "take-back disposal" program. San Jose Mercury News.

Bill Seeks To End Extra Medical Product Inspections

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Earlier this month, Rep. Brian Bilbray introduced legislation that would eliminate state-level inspections of pharmaceutical drugs and medical devices that already have been reviewed by federal regulators. According to Bilbray's office, California is the only state that requires a state-level screening, by the California Food and Drug Branch, regardless of prior review. The bill also has support from Rep. Susan Davis and five Republicans. CMIO.

Senate Holds Hearing on Prime Healthcare's Billing, Medical Practices

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Members of the Senate Committee on Health recently held a hearing to question officials from Prime Healthcare Services about their billing and medical practices. The hearing came one day after Prime announced the resignation of its CEO Lex Reddy. Los Angeles Times et al.

Lawmakers To Launch Probe Into Investigations of Patient Abuse

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Lawmakers plan to investigate why most cases involving deaths and injuries of patients with developmental disabilities at state institutions are not being seen through to prosecution. California Watch, KQED's "California Report."

Report: Calif. Should Halt Plans To Build Prison Medical Facilities

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A Legislative Analyst's Office report recommends that California halt plans to build new prison health care facilities. It says state efforts to shift some inmates to county jails could make the projects unnecessary. Los Angeles Times' "PolitiCal" et al.

FDA Announces Effort To Address Shortages of Two Cancer Treatments

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

FDA plans to temporarily allow the importation of alternatives for two cancer drugs that have been in short supply since November. The agency also released guidance on notifications that drugmakers must provide when they foresee drug supply issues. New York Times et al.

Calif. Fines Three Nursing Homes After Patient Deaths

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, the California Department of Public Health announced that it has fined three Los Angeles County nursing homes after finding that inadequate care led to patient deaths. Fountain View Subacute and Nursing Center in Los Angeles received a $75,000 fine, while Downey Care Center and the Motion Picture & Television Hospital in Woodland Hills each received an $80,000 fine. Los Angeles Times' "L.A. Now" 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."

DHCS, UC-Davis Team Up for Public Health Overhaul Study

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The California Department of Health Care Services recently announced a $4.25 million agreement with UC-Davis Health System's Institute for Population Health Improvement to study techniques implemented by 17 public hospital systems for cutting costs and improving health outcomes for Medi-Cal patients. If proven successful, the techniques could serve as models for hospitals across the U.S. California Watch.

Calif. Analysis Finds Care Quality Gap Between Rural, Urban Regions

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Hospital data released by California's Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development show that health care quality often is better in urban areas than in rural areas. However, researchers said they did not compile enough data to draw conclusions about the trend. Payers & Providers.

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.

Patient Satisfaction Linked to Higher Costs, Mortality

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A UC-Davis study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine on Monday finds that the most-satisfied patients are more likely to be hospitalized, have higher health care costs and are more likely to die than less-satisfied patients. The study is believed to be the first to warn that focusing on patient satisfaction could have unexpected adverse effects. Sacramento Bee.

UC-San Diego Surgeon Calls for Statewide Trauma System

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In his address at a trauma and resuscitation conference in San Diego last week, Raul Coimbra -- UC-San Diego Health System's chief of trauma -- said that California needs a statewide trauma system that operates with the latest technology and reacts to recent trends in trauma care. Coimbra cited data that show survival rates improved by at least 25% in areas covered by trauma system. UPI.

Some Concerned Prison Health Advances Will Stop Without Oversight

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Although a federal judge said that oversight of California's prison health system can return to the state, health officials and inmate advocates worry that improvements will stop without federal guidance. State officials expect to continue making progress. Los Angeles Times.

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.

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 IDs Factors Affecting Nursing Home Care Quality

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Staff-to-patient ratios and ownership are important factors influencing the quality of care provided at nursing homes, according to a new UC-San Francisco study. The study compared care quality at the 10 largest for-profit nursing home chains from 2003 to 2008, with the care provided at other for-profit, not-for-profit and government-run facilities. Contra Costa Times.

FDA's Medical Device Tracking Proposal Remains Stalled at OMB

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

FDA's plan to track medical devices with unique device identifiers has been stalled at the Office of Management and Budget since last summer. Patient advocates say that delaying implementation of UDIs could pose patient safety risks. Politico.

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.

Seton Hospital Hit With $100K Fine for Patient Death

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, the California Department of Public Health announced that it has levied an "AA" citation and $100,000 fine -- the maximum penalties under state law -- against Seton Medical Center after an investigation determined that a hospital error led to the death of a patient in the long-term nursing unit. Seton is appealing the citation and fine. Bay Citizen, San Jose Mercury News.

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.

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.

Lawmakers Considering Renewal of User Fees for FDA Approval Processes

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

In today's hearing of a House Energy and Commerce subcommittee, health industry experts are expected to seek renewal of FDA's authority to collect user fees from drugmakers and medical device companies for agency approval processes. CQ Today et al.

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.

Bariatric Surgeons Weigh In on 1-800-GET-THIN Ads

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Last week, weight-loss surgeons from across the U.S. sent a letter to House members criticizing the surgery centers associated with the 1-800-GET-THIN advertising for Lap-Band surgery. Rep. Henry Waxman and other House members have called for an investigation into the 1-800-GET-THIN weight-loss advertisements and the safety and effectiveness of the Lap-Band device. Los Angeles Times.

Prison Receiver: State Cannot Yet Resume Oversight of Inmate Care

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

J. Clark Kelso, California's federally appointed receiver for prison health care, said the state needs to make progress on $2 billion worth of facility upgrades and construction before federal oversight can end. AP/Washington Post, KPCC's "KPCC News."

Calif. Hospitals Work To Reduce Rate of Early Elective Deliveries

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Many California hospitals are working to curb elective deliveries between 37 and 39 weeks to reduce complications in women and infants and trim costs. Kaiser Permanente and Sutter Health are among the hospital systems that have launched such initiatives. Contra Costa Times.

Insurer Says State Has Launched Fraud Probe of Lap-Band Surgery Clinics

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The California Department of Insurance is examining the business practices of Lap-Band surgery centers affiliated with a state-based marketing campaign, according to health insurance company Aetna. Marketing campaign officials say they are unaware of the investigation. Los Angeles Times.

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.

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.

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.

Editorials Discuss Progress in Calif. Inmate Reduction Plans

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A Sacramento Bee editorial notes that Gov. Brown's statewide prison system realignment initiative "already is having a positive impact" on the system as the inmate population "has dropped by 11,000 in just six months." Meanwhile, a San Jose Mercury News editorial argues that "[i]t's hard to celebrate California's progress in meeting constitutional health care standards for prison inmates when it's spending the outrageous sum of $10,000 per inmate each year to do it." Sacramento Bee, San Jose Mercury News.

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.

Fresno County Preparing for Large Labor Strike Next Week

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Thursday, Fresno County officials said steps are being taken to ensure public safety and essential services are maintained during a three-day labor strike planned by the 4,100-member Service Employees International Union over a new contract that includes pay cuts of at least 9%. The strike, which is set to begin on Monday, may affect some public health and social services, such as mental health treatment and Medi-Cal benefits, according to officials. Meanwhile, the California Nurses Association might consider a similar strike after its 75 county nurses experienced similar pay cuts. Fresno Bee.

Calif. Long-Term Care Ombudsmen Concerned With Medical Parole Law

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Long-term care ombudsmen in California are expressing concern that a state law allowing parolees to receive care at nursing homes could put other residents' safety at risk. However, one lawyer contends that the parolees do not pose threats to others. Bay Citizen/New York Times.

Calif. Hospital Infection Rate Reports Likely Incomplete

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Recent reports from the state Department of Public Health found that some hospital infection rates in California are nearly 50% lower than the national average. However, in-depth analyses in other states indicate that hospital-generated reports may include data on only about half of infections. California officials are reviewing the results of an in-depth infection reporting audit, but the state lacks the necessary funding to more closely monitor hospital-generated reports. California Watch.

Judge: Federal Oversight of Calif. Prison Medical System Can End

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, a judge said that the federal receivership that has overseen California's prison medical system for six years can end. The judge said prison conditions have improved and the state can move forward with plans to sustain the progress. Bloomberg et al.

Former Workers File Suit Over Patient Care Issues at Weight-Loss Centers

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Two former employees of weight-loss surgery centers in California have filed a lawsuit that claims clinics billed insurance companies for procedures that were not performed and made mistakes that contributed to a patient's death in 2011. Los Angeles Times.

Judge: State Has Not Monitored Prison Inmates With Disabilities

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A judge has ruled that California has failed to monitor and protect parolees with disabilities. The judge ordered the state to give counties lists of such parolees and to contact inmates to ensure they receive accommodations. San Francisco Chronicle.

Fresno County Projects Address Teen Drug Abuse

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Teenage prescription drug abuse, considered a serious problem statewide, is the focus of Fresno County projects aimed at helping parents lock up, clean out and safely drop off unused narcotics.

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."

L.A. County Jailers Use Force More Frequently on Mentally Ill Inmates

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

A Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department report finds that jailers are more likely to use force on inmates with mental health conditions than other prisoners. Sheriff Lee Baca has responded by adding more deputies trained in using non-violent methods. Los Angeles Times.

L.A. Gives Preliminary OK to Adult Film Condom Mandate

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, the Los Angeles City Council voted 11-1 to give preliminary approval to an ordinance that would require adult film producers to provide and require actors to wear condoms during filming in order to receive permits to film in the city. Last month, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation collected more than 70,000 signatures to qualify such a proposal for a June ballot. The council's ordinance would supersede a June election on the measure, which would have cost the city more than $4 million. The council will vote next week on final approval of the measure. If approved, the ordinance would be the first of its kind in the U.S. Los Angeles Times, AP/Washington Post.

FDA Warns of Possible Painkiller Shortage After Issues at Novartis Plant

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, FDA officials warned about possible shortages of several painkillers made by Endo Pharmaceuticals because of manufacturing issues at a Novartis facility that produced the drugs. Endo said it expects "minimal" disruption in supply. AP/San Francisco Chronicle et al.

Calif. Prison Realignment Plan Sparks Medical Care Concerns

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

The state has begun to shift supervision of newly released state prisoners to county probation agencies as part of its efforts to reduce prison overcrowding and cut costs. However, officials in Los Angeles and other counties are discovering that many of the inmates lack complete medical records and suffer from serious mental health issues. Officials warn that counties might not have the resources to provide adequate care to the former inmates. Los Angeles Times.