Latest California Healthline Stories
Voters Mull Ballot Measure To Fund Children’s Hospitals
On Nov. 4, California residents will vote on Proposition 3, a ballot initiative that would authorize $980 million in state bonds for the construction and remodeling of children’s hospitals. An editorial urges voters to reject the measure, arguing that the state cannot afford any more bond debt. San Francisco Chronicle et al.
California Residents To Vote on Parental Notification
KQED’s “Forum” discussed Proposition 4, a ballot measure that would require parental notification for minors seeking an abortion. Meanwhile, in an opinion piece, Steve Francis — chair of the San Diego Institute for Policy Research and co-chair of the Yes on Proposition 4 Campaign — urged California residents to vote in favor of the parental notification measure. KQED’s “Forum,” San Francisco Chronicle.
Most Beneficiaries Won’t See Change in Medicare Part B Premiums in 2009
The announcement marks the first time since 2000 that premiums for Part B — the Medicare benefit for outpatient services — have not increased. Officials said premiums won’t rise because of repayment to the Part B fund for billing errors and other factors. San Francisco Chronicle et al.
Health Care Reform News Around the Nation for the Week of Sept. 22
Lawmakers criticized negotiations over Rhode Island’s application for a Medicaid waiver that would cap spending and give the state more authority to alter services. Meanwhile, Utah’s preferred drug list for Medicaid saved about $2.75 million less than expected last year.
Nursing Home Fined $21,000 After Patient Death
State regulators have fined El Dorado Care Center, a Placerville nursing home, $21,000 in connection to a resident’s death nearly two years ago. An investigation found that the facility failed to monitor the patient’s fluid intake, which led to severe dehydration, kidney failure and death. The report also faulted the facility for staffing deficiencies and other problems. Sacramento Bee.
Congressional Leaders Push To OK VA Health Funding in Advance
Chairs of the Senate and House Veterans’ Affairs committees aim to separate funding for the Department of Veterans’ Affairs health care system each year from the regular appropriations process. The bill aims to approve VA health funding one year in advance. New York Times.
Case on Doctors’ Rights Has National Implications
In July, the California Supreme Court ruled that physicians could not assert a religious exemption in a lawsuit that accused them of discriminating against a lesbian. Observers say the matter could end up before the U.S. Supreme Court. Ventura County Star.
Stakeholders Make Case for, Against Parental Notification
KPCC’s “AirTalk” looked at Proposition 4, which would require a 48-hour waiting period and parental notification for minors seeking an abortion. The report includes comments from Margie Pearson, volunteer and spokesperson for the Yes on Proposition 4 campaign, and Miriam Gerace, Strategic Communications Director of the No on Prop 4 Campaign. KPCC’s “AirTalk.”
Federal Health Officials Offer Hepatitis B Recommendations
On Thursday, federal health officials released new recommendations aimed at curbing hepatitis B, especially among Asian-Americans and other high-risk groups. For the first time, the federal recommendations focus on treatment, education and long-term care for infected patients. Previously, government recommendations have focused on screening and testing. San Francisco Chronicle.
Public Health Fields Popular Among College Students
The fields of epidemiology, public health and global health are becoming increasingly popular among undergraduate students. A recent Association of American Colleges and Universities survey found that 16% of its members now offer majors or minors in public health. Washington Post.