Latest California Healthline Stories
Study Finds Ethnic, Racial Gaps in Using End-Of-Life Care
The authors recommend that public benefits for end-of-life care be extended and conclude that requirements for hospice enrollment might conflict with patients’ preferences. Los Angeles Times, California HealthCare Foundation.
Upward Trend in Employer Health Costs Continued in 2006
More businesses are looking to high-deductible health plans as one way of curbing still-increasing health care costs, a decision that in past years has resulted in lower jumps in insurance costs for employers. AP/Chicago Tribune, Reuters.
Hospital News Roundup for March 16
San Bernardino County assumes management of hospital in Needles; San Diego County rejects UC-San Diego Medical Center proposal to relocate some services
Minority Groups Set To Oppose Cuts to Medicare Program
Leaders of advocacy groups for blacks and Hispanics are voicing skepticism about proposals to shore up funding for health care programs by cutting reimbursements for Medicare managed care programs, which have a high number of minority members. CongressDaily, CQ HealthBeat.
Planned Closure of Army Hospital Dealt Setback
Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C., has been slated for closure, but a House committee put a hold on the use of federal funds to go through with plans to consolidate its services with a nearby facility. Washington Post et al.
Study Challenges Governor’s Numbers on Health Coverage Costs
A new study says Gov. Schwarzenegger’s administration has underestimated the cost of health insurance by almost $5,000 per year for Californians who would buy coverage through a state purchasing pool. San Diego Union-Tribune.
Los Angeles Hit Hard by Bloodborne Parasite
Federal officials last year approved a test for blood banks to screen for the parasite, but organ donor facilities have not taken similar measures. CDC says the disease may be more prevalent than previous estimates, especially in Los Angeles. Los Angeles Times.