Latest California Healthline Stories
The industry generated $62 billion in revenue for the state last year but has not broken even or made a profit since its inception 30 years ago. AP/Ventura County Star, Los Angeles Daily News.
Stem Cell Agency Contractor Folds
The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine now owns the computer codes that will allow it to develop the system the now defunct Arlington Group had contracted to build, said CIRM President Zach Hall. San Diego Union-Tribune.
Medicare Rules Would End Referral Loopholes
Current Medicare rules permit a practice called “self-referral,” in which a physician has a financial interest in ordering certain tests for patients, but CMS is considering revisions that would prohibit providers from billing Medicare at a higher rate than it costs the provider to conduct the test. Wall Street Journal.
Parental Notification Measure Discussed
Several local broadcast programs on Oct. 20 discussed Proposition 85, which would require unmarried minors to notify a parent or guardian before undergoing an abortion. Audio.
City Police, Firefighters’ Disability Claims Contested
San Jose officials refute claims that the retirement board freely grants disability status to police officers and firefighters who meet the retirement age or already are retired. San Jose Mercury News.
UC Nurses Ratify Contract Provisions
The new contract provisions will increase wages for nurses but will not affect health care coverage or retiree health benefits. Sacramento Bee.
Similarities, Differences in Candidates’ Health Care Positions
Democratic gubernatorial nominee Phil Angelides and Gov. Schwarzenegger both say they support universal health insurance coverage for children, but Schwarzenegger cited cost concerns when he vetoed a bill that would have expanded coverage. Sacramento Bee.
Democrats Should ‘Stand Up Strongly’ for Principles
U.S. voters want politicians to stand up to the pharmaceutical industry and other corporate interests, according to columnist Paul Krugman. New York Times.