Latest California Healthline Stories
Los Angeles Schools Lead Opposition to Proposed Medicaid Cuts
A plan by the Bush administration would stop schools from receiving some Medicaid payments intended to cover the cost of transporting students with disabilities and for administrative duties schools undertake to help enroll students in Medicaid. AP/Los Angeles Daily News.
Report: HHS Should Create Database To Gauge Studies
HHS needs a single, public database to evaluate the effectiveness of drugs and health services and review clinical studies, according to an Institute of Medicine report. The database would help identify gaps between research and delivery of health services, the report said. Reuters, CQ HealthBeat.
Physician Groups Mull Options for Doctors Who Abuse Drugs, Alcohol
Physician groups are calling for a confidential program to help doctors with substance abuse problems receive treatment without losing their license. The program would replace a diversion program that ends in June following a history of deficiencies. AP/San Diego Union-Tribune, Los Angeles Times.
Health Trust Grants Aim To Boost Health of Silicon Valley Residents
The Health Trust, a not-for-profit advocacy group, hopes its investment will improve the overall health of the region through management and prevention of chronic disease, support for elder care and expanded health insurance coverage. Silicon Valley/San Jose Business Journal.
Medicaid Funding Still an Option in Stimulus Package
A tentative agreement between President Bush and House leaders on an economic stimulus package does not include a temporary increase in funding for state Medicaid programs, but Senate Finance Committee Chair Max Baucus said his chamber’s version might include such a provision. CQ HealthBeat et al.
Drug Industry Pushes for Delay of Electronic Tag Law
The pharmaceutical industry is lobbying to delay implementation of a California law that requires electronic tags on drugs in hopes of deterring counterfeiters. The industry says the rules will cause problems with the global supply chain. KPCC’s “The California Report.”
Nursing Home Model Boosts Outcomes; Profit Is Slim
The “Green House” nursing home model focuses on patient-centered care in a home-like environment. Residents at the homes report a higher quality of life and care, but the model might be financially unattractive to for-profit operators. PBS’ “NewsHour with Jim Lehrer.”