Latest California Healthline Stories
Hospitals, Surgeons Rated for Bypass Surgery in State Report
California officials adjusted data used in the report to account for patients who are at higher risk for death, but some highly regarded physicians and hospitals still ended up receiving higher-than-average mortality rankings for the cardiac procedure. Four other states release similar reports. Los Angeles Times et al.
California Panel Mulls Options for Covering Retiree Health Costs
California and other public agencies have been criticized for providing overly generous benefits to retired employees, but unions oppose efforts to change eligibility rules for medical benefits or pensions. San Francisco Chronicle, KQED's "Forum."
Congress Must Keep Tabs on Pennsylvania Reform Efforts
As the 2008 health care debate heats up, federal lawmakers should pay attention to how Pennsylvania Republicans derailed Gov. Ed Rendell’s (D) universal health care proposal, according to an editorial. Wall Street Journal.
L.A. County Hospital Says It Is Ready for Inspection
King-Harbor Hospital officials this week informed CMS that they have corrected patient care violations in the emergency department and are ready for a federal inspection to determine whether the facility retains federal funding and keeps its doors open. Los Angeles Times.
New ‘Patient Dumping’ Case Under Investigation in L.A.
Kaiser Permanente is accused of improperly discharging a patient to a homeless shelter. The HMO previously reached a settlement with the Los Angeles city attorney on other patient dumping charges and agreed to adopt new discharge protocols for homeless patients. Los Angeles Daily News.
Edwards Touts His Universal Health Plan in Las Vegas
Presidential Candidate John Edwards said his universal health care coverage proposal would address health care access and preventive care. He added that he would push for changes in the insurance and pharmaceutical industries. Las Vegas Sun.
House Approves Bill To Overhaul FDA, Boost Safety of Rx Drugs
The measure would reauthorize the Prescription Drug User Fee Act and expand FDA's power to regulate prescription drug safety. The legislation now moves to conference committee to reconcile differences with a similar bill passed by the Senate. Los Angeles Times et al.