Latest California Healthline Stories
Democratic Candidates for President Talk Health Care at Debate
In their first debate, all eight Democratic candidates said they would work to expand health insurance coverage but differed on how they would fund their proposals. The candidates also discussed abortion rights, the war in Iraq and access to guns. McClatchy/Seattle Times et al.
Santa Clara County Investigates Hospital Waste Disposal
Three hospitals in the county sent medical waste to a San Jose landfill earlier this month in violation of a state law that requires sterilization before disposal. The county is considering fines or other sanctions against the facilities. San Jose Mercury News.
L.A. County Leaders Seek To Block Medicaid Cuts
The proposed Medicaid funding cuts for hospitals could be another hit to the county health department as it is faced with a serious budget deficit, and some say the cuts could push the county to close a hospital. However, federal officials say California is exempt from the rule change. Los Angeles Times.
San Diego County College To Launch Nursing Program
MiraCosta College was going to seek accreditation only for a program to help licensed vocational nurses earn their registered nursing credentials but instead applied to administer a broader nursing program because of a local nursing shortage. San Diego Union-Tribune.
Hospital News Roundup for April 27
Physicians plan to open new hospital in San Jose; Sutter announces plans for facility in Elk Grove
Poll: Most Americans Support Wider Health Insurance Coverage
Almost 75% of respondents to the poll said they back efforts in California and other states to require employers to offer health insurance. The poll also found that insured people are concerned about their health insurance benefits being scaled back. Wall Street Journal Online.
House Approves War Spending Bill With Funds for Health Care
Initiatives ranging from the State Children’s Health Insurance Program to research efforts on traumatic brain injuries to vaccine production would get a financial lift from the measure. President Bush is expected to veto the bill next week. CongressDaily, CQ HealthBeat.