Latest California Healthline Stories
SCAN To Pay $327M in Medi-Cal Overpayment Settlement
SCAN Health Plan will pay back $327 million in Medi-Cal overpayments in what officials say is the largest settlement ever with a single Medi-Cal provider. Investigators say the overpayments were not SCAN’s fault. California Watch, Los Angeles Times.
Federal Officials Unveil Final Stage 2 Rules for EHR Incentive Program
Yesterday, HHS announced the release of two final rules on the Stage 2 requirements for the meaningful use electronic health record incentive program. One final rule details requirements for health care providers, and the other final rule outlines EHR standards and certification criteria. Modern Healthcare et al.
Federal Action Taken Against Medical Pot Dispensaries
On Tuesday, federal prosecutors expanded a statewide crackdown against medical marijuana dispensaries by filing three lawsuits and sending warning letters to a total of 66 dispensaries in Anaheim and La Habra. The lawsuits were filed against landlords who own buildings in Anaheim that house six dispensaries. The letters order the dispensaries to close or face possible criminal charges. AP/U-T San Diego.
CBO Scales Back 10-Year Spending Forecasts for Medicare, Medicaid
A new Congressional Budget Office report predicts that Medicare spending over the next 10 years will be nearly $170 billion less than previous predictions, partly because of the recession. CBO also lowered its 10-year spending projections for Medicaid. Reuters, Politico.
Federal Judge Dismisses Lawsuit Over California Inmate Dental Care
A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit over poor dental care in California prisons, saying that services at the facilities have improved in recent years. State officials say dental programs at prisons have passed inspections with an average grade of more than 98%. AP/U-T San Diego.
Blue Shield of California Unveils Plans for Eighth ACO
On Wednesday, Blue Shield of California announced that it plans to create an accountable care organization with Dominican Hospital and Physicians Medical Group of Santa Cruz. The new partnership marks the insurer’s eighth ACO. The initiative will cover about 8,000 Blue Shield HMO members and will last at least three years. Modern Healthcare, Payers & Providers.
CMS Announces Primary Care Initiative Targeting Medicare Beneficiaries
Yesterday, CMS announced that 500 primary care practices will participate in a four-year pilot program. Participating practices will receive public and private funding to better coordinate care for Medicare beneficiaries. The Hill‘s “Healthwatch,” HealthLeaders Media.
Health Net Affiliate Wins DOD Counseling Services Contract
The Department of Defense has awarded MHN Government Services — an affiliate of Woodland Hills-based health insurer Health Net — a contract worth up to $100 million in its first year to provide U.S.-based and foreign-based military personnel and their dependents with counseling services. The contract takes effect on Nov. 15 and includes the option for annual renewals over the next four years. Payers & Providers.
Companies With S.F. Workers To Pay More for Health Care
Beginning on Jan. 1, companies with San Francisco-based employees will be required under city law to spend more for their workers’ health care benefits. Businesses with at least 100 workers will have to spend $2.33 per hour per covered employee on health care, up from $2.20 this year, while those with 20 to 99 workers will have to spend at least $1.55 per hour, up from $1.46. Crain’s Business Insurance/Modern Healthcare.
California Lawmakers Approve Several Health-Related Bills
The California Legislature has approved several health-related bills, including legislation to extend a law requiring treatment for people with severe mental illnesses who do not realize that they require care. AP/U-T San Diego et al.