Latest California Healthline Stories
California Legislature Weighs Bill on New Rules for Hospital Construction
A bill making its way through the Assembly would not allow hospitals and architects to select and hire their own inspectors. Supporters of the bill say it would avoid potential conflicts of interest in hospital building projects, but opponents say it is unnecessary. Contra Costa Times.
Assembly Committee To Hear Bill on Mandatory Sick Leave in California
Under the bill, workers would get at least one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked once they have been on the job at least 90 days. Business groups oppose the bill, arguing that it could force employers to cut wages or jobs. AP/San Jose Mercury News.
McCain’s Health Care Plan Based on ‘Voodoo Economics’
Presumptive Republican presidential nominee Sen. John McCain has offered a health care plan “based on voodoo economics,” according to an opinion piece. It adds, McCain’s health care plan “is entirely based on blind faith that competition among private insurers will solve all problems.” New York Times.
Report Estimates Eight Deaths Per Day From Lack of Insurance
Families USA found that thousands of uninsured Californians die annually because they cannot pay for necessary care or receive treatment too late. A spokesperson for Gov. Schwarzenegger said the report heightens his commitment to health care reform. San Jose Mercury News, Families USA release.
Lawmakers, Administration Clash Over Medicaid Rules
House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Rep. John Dingell and Rep. Tim Murphy have introduced legislation to place a one-year moratorium on seven Medicaid regulations. States say the rules would cost them at least $50 billion over five years, and lawmakers argue that CMS has been unresponsive to state feedback. CongressDaily.
Health Care News From the Campaign Trail for the Week of April 4
Democratic presidential candidates Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama outpace likely Republican nominee John McCain in donations from the health care sector, while McCain’s health care plan draws criticism from Elizabeth Edwards and health care advocates.
Not-for-Profit Hospitals Outperform For-Profit Rivals
Not-for-profit hospitals are outperforming their for-profit counterparts, causing some to question the large tax breaks not-for-profits receive. The combined net income of the 50 largest not-for-profit hospitals in the U.S. increased nearly eightfold to $4.27 billion between 2001 and 2006. Wall Street Journal.
TV Program Probes Causes of Gap in Physician Diversity
A study released this week shows that only about 10% of California physicians are Hispanic and black, compared with about 40% of the overall state population. A public television program takes a deeper look at the issue this evening. KQED’s “This Week in Northern California.”