Latest California Healthline Stories
Calif. Hospital News Roundup for the Week of Feb. 26, 2010
The California Department of Public Health has issued a $50,000 fine against Mayers Memorial Hospital District for an incident involving a patient death. Meanwhile, Shasta Regional Medical Center announced that its inpatient diabetes program won certification from the Joint Commission.
Research Shows High Number of Young People Uninsured
On Wednesday, CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics released data showing that 13 million individuals between the ages of 20 and 29 did not carry health insurance in 2008. An author of the report said individuals between the ages of 20 and 29 comprise more than 25% of the country’s uninsured population but only 14% of the overall population. Reuters.
Study: Market Power of Hospitals, Doctors Adds to State’s Health Costs
A new Health Affairs study finds that the consolidation of hospitals and physician groups is contributing to California’s high health care costs. Researchers suggest that large health systems often have the upper hand in negotiations with insurers. San Francisco Chronicle et al.
Calif. Attorney General Issues Subpoenas for 7 State Insurers
Yesterday, Attorney General Jerry Brown subpoenaed financial records for Aetna, Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield of California, Cigna, HealthNet, Kaiser Permanente and PacifiCare. An Assembly panel also voted to subpoena Anthem over planned premium hikes. AP/San Jose Mercury News et al.
Agreement Remains Out of Reach at Bipartisan Health Reform Summit
Democrats and Republicans debated various health reform proposals for over seven hours yesterday at a health reform summit moderated by President Obama, but they emerged without a bipartisan agreement or a clear strategy for developing one. Chicago Tribune et al.
Suit Challenges Mass. Policy on Coverage for Immigrants
Documented immigrants have filed a lawsuit challenging Massachusetts lawmakers’ decision to scale back coverage under the state’s 2006 health insurance law for documented immigrants. The cuts were motivated by a state budget deficit. Boston Globe.
Small Businesses Taking Hit From Health Insurance Hikes
Rate increases from Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield of California and other insurers are having a major impact on small businesses, which lack the buying power to negotiate lower rates on coverage. California insurance industry experts say plans connected to health savings accounts in particular have seen significant rate increases. San Francisco Chronicle.
Catholic Healthcare West Boosts Electronic Health Record Budget to $1B
Yesterday, Catholic Healthcare West announced plans to increase its electronic health record budget after successfully implementing EHRs at eight California hospitals. CHW said it plans to expand the program to its entire 41 hospital system. San Francisco Business Times et al.
Obama Seeking Open Discussion at Bipartisan Health Reform Summit
In his opening remarks at today’s bipartisan health reform summit, President Obama appealed to Republicans by saying that both parties are concerned about the federal deficit and rising premium costs. GOP leaders also plan to offer proposals at the event. New York Times et al.
L.A. County Approves Online Suicide Prevention Project
This week, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved a proposal to create a Web-based suicide prevention training program for educators and other school officials. The Web site will include fact sheets, frequently asked questions and links to further resources. The county will use $765,000 in state funds to implement the program. Los Angeles Daily News.