Latest California Healthline Stories
Paradise Valley Hospital Retains Medicare Funding
CMS told Paradise Valley Hospital that it “demonstrated compliance” during its most recent federal inspection in March. The hospital failed its two previous inspections before it was sold March 1 to Prime Healthcare Management. San Diego Union-Tribune.
Doctors Sue Louisiana for $100M in Unpaid Claims After Katrina
Physicians at a hospital outside of New Orleans said they filled the gap after Hurricane Katrina closed a charity care facility in the city. State officials say the federal government provides funds only for hospitals that treat the uninsured. Los Angeles Times et al.
Kern County Considers Wider Background Checks for EMTs
The county currently certifies EMTs on the honor system, creating a loophole that has led applicants with past criminal histories from counties around the state to obtain EMT certification in Kern County. Sacramento Bee.
Study Finds Link Between Diabetes, Depression
The research did not show whether treatment of depression could reduce risks for developing diabetes, but the author said it strengthens the case for how depression can affect overall health. New York Times.
Report Pushes Transparency in Medicaid Agreements
CMS did not provide clear policies explaining why some arrangements between state Medicaid programs and health care providers would be barred under new rules, according to the report. Lawmakers dispute the implications of the findings. CQ HealthBeat, CongressDaily.
Report: Shifting Assets To Qualify for Medicaid Rare
Federal investigators said that few people transfer assets to qualify for Medicaid coverage for nursing home care, prompting some lawmakers to decry a provision of a 2006 law that made it easier for federal authorities to screen for such practices. CongressDaily, CQ HealthBeat.
Panel on Retiree Health Care Meets in Orange County
The commission is tasked with offering proposals for California to address the cost of retiree health benefits and pensions. Meanwhile, a former legislator is advocating raising the retirement age for some state employees. Orange County Register.
States Mull Wider Eligibility for Kids’ Health Insurance Program
California is among the states considering raising the income threshold for its version of the State Children’s Health Insurance Program. The federal government has permitted similar efforts in 18 other states, but President Bush is pushing for a tighter focus on coverage for only low-income children as Congress debates the program’s reauthorization. AP/Long Island Newsday.
Insurer Group Lobbies Against Proposed Cuts to Medicare Advantage
Some Democrats have proposed reducing payments to private insurers for Medicare managed care plans, but an influential insurance industry group’s opposition campaign argues that the program helps minority beneficiaries get health care services. Wall Street Journal.
L.A. Officials Weigh Support for Expanded Health Benefits, Wages
Local officials are taking a look at ordinances that would encourage grocery store chains to boost health care benefits and pay for workers. A 2005 New York law that ties health care benefits to hours worked is being looked to as a model for Los Angeles. Los Angeles Times.