Latest California Healthline Stories
Gov. Schwarzenegger signed legislation to create a drug discount program for California residents, but it remains unclear whether pharmaceutical firms will challenge the law in court. Schwarzenegger also acted on bills dealing with hospital operations, physicians’ language skills and other issues. MediaNews/Monterey County Herald et al.
Premature Births Account for One-Third of U.S. Infant Deaths
Earlier data pointed toward birth defects as the No. 1 cause of death among infants during the first year after birth, but a CDC study suggests that birth before 37 weeks’ gestation is the dominant factor in infant death. Los Angeles Times et al.
More Medicare Drug Plans Expected in 2007
The number of stand-alone prescription drug plans available to Medicare beneficiaries in California in 2007 will increase to 55 from 48 in 2006, but the lowest monthly premium also increased from 2006. New York Times et al.
San Francisco Physician Practice Offers House Calls
KQED’s “The California Report” on Sept. 29 profiled the San Francisco On Call Medical Group, a practice offering urgent and primary care via house calls as well as in an office setting. Audio.
Democrats Focus on Health Care Costs, Income Gap
Health care costs and the Medicare drug benefit are emerging as issues in elections nationwide. Wall Street Journal et al.
HHS Secretary Mike Leavitt said consumers deserve better information about the cost and quality of medical care, but he noted it might take years before consumers can compare quality and costs regularly. Raleigh News & Observer.
First Regional Healthy Kids Program Launches
The collaboration among four counties aims to provide health, dental and vision benefits to uninsured children regardless of their immigration status. Sacramento Bee.
Group Seeks Health Warnings on Chicken Products
The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine seeks to require seven restaurant chains to post warnings about a carcinogen the group alleges is present in chicken products the restaurants sell. Wall Street Journal.