Latest California Healthline Stories
Democrats’ Bill Would Boost FDA Drug Industry Oversight
A number of Democratic lawmakers introduce bills that would reform FDA and increase regulation of prescription drugs. Wall Street Journal.
San Diego County Warned To Not Cut Employee Benefits
A proposal by the San Diego County Board of Supervisors to reduce retiree health benefits is awaiting approval by the retirement board, yet the board’s attorney said the board has no responsibility toward the county and must consider what is best for county employees. San Diego Union-Tribune.
Companies Yet To Begin Some Studies on Approved Drugs
Prescription drug companies have not begun 71% of post-market studies promised as a condition of FDA approval of medications, according to an annual agency report. Bloomberg/Long Island Newsday, Bloomberg/Los Angeles Times.
Hospital News Roundup for February 2
Doctors Medical Center and Contra Costa County reach final draft of joint powers agreement; Atascadero State Hospital is experiencing high vacancy rates, as mental health workers seek increased wages at state prisons.
California Agency Seeks to Build Prison Mental Health Units
The new proposal by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation would construct health facilities at seven state prisons, replacing a plan by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger last year to build just three such units. AP/Bakersfield Californian.
More Injured Coming Back to Work Since Reforms, Study Finds
Reforms to California’s workers’ compensation system have produced a slight increase in the rate of disabled workers returning to work, according to a new state report. However, critics counter that any gains from the reforms have come at the expense of people injured on the job. Los Angeles Times, AP/San Luis Obispo Tribune.
Senate Panel Passes Bill To Ban Genetic Discrimination
A Senate committee approves a bill under which employers and health insurers could not discriminate based on the results of genetic tests. CongressDaily, CQ Today.