Latest California Healthline Stories
White House Gains Guidance Power Through New Order
Calif. Rep. Henry Waxman said an executive order signed by President Bush would permit the White House “to dictate decisions on health and safety issues,” regardless of experts’ findings. New York Times, Washington Post.
Drug Ads Aim for Emotion, Not Education, Study Finds
None of the prescription drug advertisements reviewed in a new UCLA study mention alternatives to the medication being promoted, and fewer than 20% of ads address lifestyle changes that could help consumers combat the health condition. Washington Post et al.
Regulatory Chief Backs Independent Review of Policy Cancellations
Insurers could be required to seek approval from the Department of Managed Health Care or an independent review board before canceling an individual health insurance policy. Details of the proposal have not been finalized. Los Angeles Times.
Governor Courting Business Support for Health Care Reforms
Gov. Schwarzenegger is continuing his meetings with business leaders to rally support for his health care proposal, while some legislators and policy groups fight provisions that would cover undocumented immigrants. San Diego Union-Tribune et al.
Trans Fat Ban Goes Voluntary Route in L.A.
The Los Angeles City Council likely will propose a voluntary ban on trans fats at restaurants, and county officials are considering a similar proposal after being advised that only the state could adopt a compulsory trans fat ban in California. KQED.
Federal Budget Agenda Could Pose Problem for Governor’s Health Plan
California officials say the state should receive almost all of the $3.7 billion in federal funds that it would seek under Gov. Schwarzenegger’s reform proposal. However, state-based health care reform efforts could face opposition in Washington, D.C. Los Angeles Times.
Republican Plan Pushes Health Care Access, Not Universal Coverage
A health care proposal by Republicans in the California Senate does not seek to cover all uninsured state residents but instead calls for tax credits and other incentives to make health care services more accessible. A spokesman for Gov. Schwarzenegger said the governor “looks forward to the dialogue.” Orange County Register.
Hospitals Work To Comply With New Law on Infections
Hospitals are adopting more stringent hygiene practices and technology upgrades to reduce hospital-acquired infections in advance of a state law that will require hospitals to follow CDC-approved guidelines and report data on infection control efforts. San Francisco Business Times.
Lawmakers Consider Paramedic Drug Treatment Program
A paramedic diversion program would be based on a similar program for physicians that allows them to turn themselves in confidentially and receive substance abuse treatment. Sacramento Bee.
Federal Budget Up for Vote, Including Health Funding
Community health centers, NIH and Veterans medical care are among the programs that would receive funding increases in the proposal. Wall Street Journal et al.