Latest California Healthline Stories
Broadcast Programs Evaluate Governor’s Health Proposal
A UCLA health policy expert said the governor’s plan is “a very bold proposal.” Some business owners are concerned about how it will affect their bottom line. KCET’s “Life & Times,” KPBS’ “KPBS News.”
Federal, State Violations Possible in ‘Dumping’ Case
The Los Angeles City Attorney’s Office says Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center might have violated federal law when it released a patient who did not meet basic discharge standards, as well as a state law dealing with unfair business practices. Los Angeles Times.
Bill Promotes Umbilical Cord Blood Banking
Transfusions using blood from umbilical cords increasingly have become an alternative to bone marrow transplants in treating leukemia, lymphoma and other disorders of the blood and immune system. Los Angeles Times.
HMO Costs Up for Northern California Federal Workers
The monthly cost to federal employees of a Kaiser Permanente HMO in Northern California jumped by more than 50% last year, drawing concerns about a widening gulf between health insurance premiums in Northern and Southern California. Sacramento Bee.
State Lawmakers Take Aim at Nutrition Info on Labels, Menus
At least four measures under consideration in Sacramento seek to curb obesity and diabetes rates in California by expanding labeling requirements or regulating ingredients used in some foods. Restaurants and other groups say the proposals are unnecessary. Sacramento Bee.
Budget Debate Could Center on Funds for Kids’ Insurance
Members of Congress are squaring off over how federal money for the state children’s health insurance program can be used in efforts to reduce the uninsured, while hospital and veterans groups work to determine what the president’s budget means for them. CongressDaily et al.
San Francisco Restaurants Speak Out Against Benefits Laws
New city laws that require paid sick leave for employees and contributions for a health access program come on the heels of a minimum wage increase in San Francisco. Restaurants decry the rules as harmful to San Francisco’s business climate. San Francisco Chronicle.
States Consider Options for Funding Health Care Reform
President Bush’s budget proposal championed efforts to curb spending increases for government health programs at a time when states themselves are taking on health care reform. Limited prospects for federal funds are pushing some states to investigate using tobacco taxes and fines on employers who do not offer insurance to finance the efforts. New York Times.
Obama Enters Race; Clinton Campaigns in New Hampshire
Creating a universal health care system would be one of Sen. Barack Obama’s goals if elected president. Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton did not offer a specific health plan this weekend but said she is considering options that would not increase spending. Washington Post et al.
Safeway Traces Lower Health Costs to Preventive Care Plan
The plan covers all preventive care services recommended for beneficiaries and offers a hot line to help people manage chronic conditions. About 71% of eligible nonunion employees are enrolled this year, and enrollment is expected to increase. San Francisco Chronicle.