Latest California Healthline Stories
Maryland Attorneys Argue for Health Spending Law
A Maryland assistant attorney general said the state’s law requiring some employers to spend a certain percentage of their payroll on health care benefits would not conflict with federal regulations because Wal-Mart — the only employer in the state that would have been subject to the law — had a choice between increasing health spending or paying a tax. A plaintiff’s attorney said those options amounted to a false choice. AP/Hampton Roads Daily Press, Baltimore Sun.
Pataki, Spitzer Endorse New York Hospital Plan
New York Gov. George Pataki (R) said the plan would be “enormously successful in both saving money and strengthening health care in New York state.” Gov.-elect Eliot Spitzer (D) and his administration will be charged with implementing the plan. Long Island Newsday et al.
Frist Will Not Seek GOP Presidential Nomination
As Senate majority leader, Bill Frist of Tennessee had a significant role in the passage of the 2003 Medicare law and other legislation supported by President Bush. Several sources said Frist made the decision because he expected a strong challenge in the race, with limited prospects for winning the nomination. New York Times et al.
Tenet Appoints Head of California Division
Tenet’s new senior vice president for its California region joined the company last August. The current senior vice president for the region this week was named chief operating officer for the hospital chain. Los Angeles Business.
California HMO Premiums Above National Average
California for the first time does not have the lowest HMO costs in the nation, according to a new report. Health care experts are unsure specifically why HMO premium rates in California are increasing more than the national average but cite tighter regulations in the state as a possible reason. San Diego Union-Tribune et al.
Medicare Advantage Plans Cost More Than Fee-for-Service Programs
A study by the Commonwealth Fund calls for the federal government to re-examine policies on payments to Medicare Advantage plans and consider other uses for the funds. About 5.6 million Medicare beneficiaries are enrolled in MA plans. Long Island Newsday.
Podcasts Used To Communicate With Medicare Beneficiaries
An average of 250 people have downloaded each of the eight podcasts on the Center for Medicare Advocacy’s Web site, which include information on the Medicare prescription drug benefit and changes to Medicare Part B premiums. The Hill.