Latest California Healthline Stories
Views Vary on Chances for New Abortion Restrictions
Some abortion-rights opponents see the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold a federal ban on a specific procedure as an indication of improved chances for pushing through a parental notification measure, but others are less confident about the political climate in California. Oakland Tribune.
Study: Women More Likely Than Men To Skip Medical Care
The Commonwealth Fund points to data showing that women often have more problems paying medical bills and calls for lawmakers to take the report’s findings into account as they debate strategies to expand health insurance coverage. Los Angeles Times.
California Health IT Pilot Influences National Effort
A CMS pilot project in California resulted in higher percentages of small physician practices buying into electronic health records technology than three other initiatives nationwide. San Francisco Business Times.
President OKs Extension of Cancer Screening Programs
The legislation will increase annual funding by about $73 million through the 2011 fiscal year for programs to detect early breast and cervical cancer. President Bush estimates that the program covers about 700,000 screenings each year. McClatchy/Raleigh News & Observer.
Edwards Touts Universal Coverage Plan in Iowa
Former Sen. John Edwards talked about his plan for universal health coverage in an appearance to about 400 people Saturday. Edwards remains the only presidential nominee to release such a proposal. AP/Raleigh News & Observer, USA Today.
Poll Finds Voter Support for Food Labeling Requirements
The ideas behind proposed legislation aimed at reducing obesity and other related health ailments have widespread public backing, but the California Restaurant Association is mounting fierce opposition to the bill. San Francisco Chronicle.
HHS Secretary Stumps for More Preventive Care in Medicare
About two-thirds of U.S. spending on diabetes could be avoided through preventive care, according to HHS Secretary Mike Leavitt. He’s going around the country to encourage Medicare beneficiaries to take advantage of the program’s preventive care offerings. AP/Long Island Newsday.
Studies Question Health of Baby Boomers in Retirement
The generation is more likely to be living with a chronic illness than earlier generations and is less likely to describe their health as “very good,” research shows. Washington Post.
Warning on Medicare Finances Expected To Be Released Next Week
Under provisions of the 2003 Medicare law, such notice by Medicare trustees could require President Bush to offer proposals to rein in spending for the program. Members of Congress are at odds over what the warning means for the solvency of Medicare. AP/Contra Costa Times.