Latest California Healthline Stories
Workers’ Compensation Has Low Profile in Election
Democratic gubernatorial nominee Phil Angelides is not calling for major changes to workers’ compensation reforms that Gov. Schwarzenegger enacted, and the governor has said he will resist significant changes. Los Angeles Times.
Opponents Say Public Financing Measure Benefits CNA
A spokesperson for the California Nurses Association disputes the charge, saying that the corporations opposing the measure are seeking to protect their own interests over those of voters. Sacramento Bee.
UnitedHealth CEO Payout Could Exceed $1B
UnitedHealth Group Chair and CEO William McGuire could receive $5 million annually after his resignation over backdated stock options. Wall Street Journal et al.
Tobacco Tax Measure Drawing Mixed Opinions
Most of those in favor of Proposition 86 have ties to health corporations and other services, whereas opponents of the measure have ties to tobacco corporations, law enforcement and tax control groups. Ventura County Star.
Hospitals Seek Payment From Blue Cross
Hospitals across the state are backing a lawsuit that accuses Blue Cross of California of illegally revoking individual health insurance policies after high-cost treatments, leaving patients and hospitals with substantial bills. Los Angeles Times.
USA Today Examines Health Care Quality, Cost
A weeklong series on health care reform in the U.S. will consider possible improvements to the U.S. health care system. USA Today.
Tobacco Tax Measure Draws High Spending
The tobacco industry has contributed tens of millions of dollars toward defeating Proposition 86, while anti-smoking groups work to raise money to help pass the proposed tobacco tax. AP/Richmond Times-Dispatch.
Mark McClellan, who leaves as CMS administrator, is expected to announce that he will join a Washington think tank. CQ HealthBeat, Washington Post.
Incumbent Retains CalPERS Seat
After an election that focused on health care issues, the chair of CalPERS Health Benefits Committee won another four-year term on the board. Sacramento Bee.
Enrollment in Consumer-Directed Health Plans Low in Bay Area
Supporters of the plans say they give health care consumers more power, but opponents say the responsibility that such plans give consumers is disproportionate with the information available to them. San Francisco Business Times.