Latest California Healthline Stories
Medical Students Support Single-Payer System
About 200 medical students rallied in favor of expected legislation that would create a state-run, single-payer health care system in California. The organization that coordinated the event does not support Gov. Schwarzenegger’s health care reform proposal. Orange County Register.
Health Care Reform Efforts Gaining Wider Support
Efforts by AARP, the Business Roundtable and the Service Employees International Union to address health care could highlight the importance of the issue to legislators. Wall Street Journal et al.
Coalition Launches Electronic Prescribing Program
Software for the program will be available at no cost to health care providers. The program requires no download, no new hardware and minimal training, according to its sponsors. CongressDaily, CQ HealthBeat.
UC Regents To Vote on Ban on Tobacco-Funded Research
The existing policy at the university permits any type of research funding as long as the university controls the research and publication of results. The university’s administration opposes a ban because officials say it would limit academic freedom. Contra Costa Times, San Diego Union-Tribune.
Legislation Would Encourage State-Based Health Care Efforts
The bill would create the State Health Innovation Commission to review state and local health care reform proposals, possibly including expansions of Medicaid and other programs. CongressDaily.
Obama Forms Exploratory Committee for Presidential Campaign
Illinois Sen. Barack Obama has expressed support for universal health insurance and indicated that his campaign would address efforts to control health care costs. Washington Post, AP/Long Island Newsday.
Commentary Debates Effects, Prospects for Governor’s Reform Proposal
Gov. Schwarzenegger’s health care reform proposal is expected to meet criticism and debate from both parties in the Legislature and from all parties that are required to contribute to the $12 billion plan, including employers, individuals, insurers and medical providers.
California Health Insurance Proposal Could Serve as Model
Gov. Schwarzenegger’s health care reform proposal likely will face opposition from physicians, hospitals, health insurers, employers and labor groups. However, the proposal also will draw attention to an issue that Congress has not addressed. Wall Street Journal, San Jose Mercury News.
Governor’s Health Care Plan Relies on Federal Funding
Gov. Schwarzenegger’s health care reform proposal is receiving criticism from Republican lawmakers who accuse the governor of breaking his campaign pledge not to raise taxes. Sacramento Bee et al.
Judge Hears State Challenge to Federal Abortion Provisions
California could lose $37 billion in federal funding if it declines to enforce a federal spending bill amendment that bars government agencies from requiring health care entities to provide abortion services or referrals. California law requires hospitals and clinics to provide abortion services in emergencies. San Francisco Chronicle.