Latest California Healthline Stories
Heart Association Advises EKGs for Kids With ADHD
On Monday, the American Heart Association recommended that children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder get electrocardiograms prior to taking drugs, such as Adderall, Concerta, Ritalin and Strattera, to identify potential fatal risks. In addition, about 2.5 million children already taking ADHD medication need the test. Bloomberg News/Contra Costa Times.
San Diego Research Institutes Partner on Stem Cell Center
San Diego’s four largest research institutes plan to partner to build the country’s first-of-its-kind stem cell center where scientists will collaborate to study stem cells and how they can be used to address certain health issues. San Diego Union-Tribune.
Ruling Says Bush Rules on Kids’ Insurance Violate Federal Law
Last year, the Bush administration issued guidelines that seek to bar states from expanding eligibility for the State Children’s Health Insurance Program until 95% of lower-income children in the state are enrolled in the program. The Government Accountability Office concluded that the administration did not follow proper procedure in issuing the guidelines. New York Times et al.
Health Care Reform News Around the Nation for the Week of April 21
Maine Gov. John Baldacci signed a bill that will raise taxes on beer, wine and soda manufacturers to fund the state’s Dirigo Health insurance initiative. Meanwhile, an Illinois judge issued an injunction to block Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s plan to expand the state’s Family Care program.
States Eye Tobacco Tax Hikes To Finance Health Initiatives
States are using tobacco tax increases to finance health-related initiatives. Supporters say the efforts provide revenue and can reduce smoking rates. However, the tobacco industry argues that smokers already face an unfair tax burden and that tax increases encourage cross-border purchases and bootlegging. California’s universal health plan died in the state Senate in part because of opposition to a tobacco tax increase of $1.50 per pack. New York Times.
SEIU Suffers Setback After Lawmakers Shelve Bill
California lawmakers shelved a bill this month that “would have restricted state pension fund allocations to sovereign wealth-backed private equity firms,” according to a Wall Street Journal editorial. It states that Andy Stern, head of the Service Employees International Union, “figured that by obscuring his real motives with lofty human rights concerns, the bill would surely pass the ultraliberal state Assembly.” Wall Street Journal.
Early Childhood Program Criticized for Some Grants
First 5 California administers proceeds of a state tobacco tax increase, channeling funds to early childhood health and education initiatives. The San Francisco commission has drawn criticism for its Parent Action Grants program, which has been used for overnight camping trips and Italian immersion lessons at a preschool. San Francisco Chronicle.
Contra Costa County Mulls Significant Budget Cuts
Contra Costa County is considering $51.7 million in budget cuts to service programs. The budget proposal includes closing three mental health clinics and eliminating home visits for seniors and disabled adults. County supervisors on Tuesday will hold a hearing on the proposed budget, and a vote on the proposal is scheduled for May 6. Contra Costa Times.
Bush Administration Appeals Ruling on Release of Medicare Data
Last summer, a court ordered Medicare to release billing information that could be used to rate physicians. The Bush administration is appealing that ruling, saying that it supports the goal of the program but wants clarification of the basis of the court’s decision. Los Angeles Times.
Rural Emergency Medical Services Expect Hits From Reduced Funding
Regional emergency medical service agencies say that further funding cuts could make it harder for the agencies to provide services at a time when federal funds also are declining. About one in six Californians is served by the regional agencies. Stockton Record.