Latest California Healthline Stories
Group Challenges Insurers’ Work on Health Care Overhaul
The Foundation for Taxpayer and Consumer Rights said some private insurers supporting health care reform in California are trying to take the edge off some proposals. Three insurers have joined a coalition to push a health care overhaul. AP/San Jose Mercury News.
Patient Surveys Prompt Hospital Service Changes
Hospitals are moving toward family-centered care delivery after a 2006 survey faulted the health care industry for not responding to consumers. Wall Street Journal.
Wal-Mart, SEIU Join Forces for Universal Health Coverage Plan
The plans offered by the retailer and the union will emphasize shared responsibility among individuals, businesses and the government in financing health care and expanding coverage, and could push for universal coverage by 2012. AP/Houston Chronicle et al.
Medical Prices Not Widely Available, Study Finds
Comparing prices for medical services that patients often pay out-of-pocket is hampered by a lack of information, a trend that could signal challenges for the move toward consumer-driven health plans. CQ HealthBeat, Wall Street Journal.
Bill Calls for Eateries To Post Calorie Counts
Many restaurants disclose nutritional information online, but a state senator said making that information available in restaurants would help consumers make healthier decisions about what they eat. San Francisco Chronicle, San Jose Mercury News.
Lower Medicare Plan Numbers Hit UnitedHealth Revenue
A drop in enrollment for its Medicare Advantage plans will contribute to a decrease of about $1 billion in earnings this year for the nation’s second-largest insurer. Reuters/New York Times, St. Paul Pioneer Press.
Calif. Rep. Opens Hearings on Health, Other Programs
Democratic Rep. Henry Waxman will convene a hearing to consider whether Congress should more closely oversee pharmaceutical firms’ pricing agreements with government health programs. Washington Times.
HPV Vaccine Bill Raises Ethical Concerns
Several organizations have voiced support for mandatory HPV vaccines for young girls, but critics say it would promote premarital sex or promiscuity. Moving beyond the debate, Texas on Friday became the first state to require the vaccination for school-aged girls. Los Angeles Times et al.
Medi-Cal Faces $1.5B in Cuts Under Bush Spending Proposal
The California Hospital Association announced the estimate after President Bush released his budget proposal on Monday. Proposed savings from Medicaid could impact Gov. Schwarzenegger’s ability to collect federal funds for his health care reform proposal. Los Angeles Daily News.
Massachusetts Might Rework Health Coverage Standards
Insurers and observers this week said that many residents likely will be able to afford basic health insurance plans for less than $300 monthly, but state regulators have offered proposals that health plans say would increase costs. Boston Globe.