Latest California Healthline Stories
Google Faulted for Blog Posting Critical of ‘Sicko’
A Google employee wrote on one of the company’s blogs that Michael Moore’s new documentary, “Sicko,” about the U.S. health care system, was one-sided, prompting other Web sites to criticize Google for ignoring problems with the U.S. health care system. Meanwhile, columnists and stakeholders in the health care debate weigh in on the film’s implications. San Francisco Chronicle.
Nursing Shortage Lingers as Problem for U.S. Health Care
Nursing schools must turn away qualified applicants because of a lack of instructors, a trend that is exacerbating the U.S. nursing shortage. NBC’s “Nightly News.”
Leavitt: Competition Key to Reworking U.S. Health Care
The HHS Secretary in an opinion piece touted a competitive marketplace as the basis of a successful U.S. health care system. Mike Leavitt noted that health care reform was necessary but wrote that socialized medicine is not the answer. Washington Times.
Health Care Reform Around the Nation: July 9
Missouri replaces Medicaid with prevention-focused program; North Carolina Senate approves mental health parity bill
Southern California Hospital Chain Shifts Operating Strategy
Prime Healthcare Services' cancellation of contracts with insurers and other practices are uncommon in the hospital industry. Insurers argue that premiums will jump as a result, and health care advocates maintain that the moves compromise patient care. Los Angeles Times.
Stanford To Offer Hepatitis B Services in San Jose
The Hep B Free Campaign primarily will target uninsured, low-income Asian and Pacific Islanders in San Jose. Services include no-cost testing and low-cost vaccinations, as well as appropriate monitoring and antiviral treatment for those infected with the virus. San Jose Business Journal.
Hospital Comparison Web Sites Need More Cost Data
Health policy experts say that while hospital comparison Web sites are useful, consumers should be wary of relying too heavily on the cost information provided by such sites. The Web sites often include only the full cost of a procedure or list only the insurer-negotiated price. AP/Chicago Tribune.
Retail Clinic Group Works To Address Doctors’ Concerns
The Convenient Care Association wants to work with the American Medical Association to address concerns raised last month by the medical association over whether retail health clinics put patients at risk and involve a conflict of interest. Houston Chronicle.