Latest California Healthline Stories
Health Care-Related Issues Emerge in Attorney General Race
An advertisement by Democratic attorney general candidate Jerry Brown says that his Republican opponent Sen. Charles Poochigian “wants to outlaw abortion” and opposes stem cell research. Sacramento Bee.
IOM Report Recommends Changes at FDA
FDA currently cannot ensure the safety of new prescription drugs because of inadequate funds, cultural and structural problems, and “unclear and insufficient regulatory authorities,” the report states. New York Times et al.
Republican Leaders Propose Reimportation Changes
The changes would permit U.S. residents to purchase drugs from other countries only with documentation from a U.S. physician treating the patient. CongressDaily.
Prospects Uncertain for Actions on Health Bills
Negotiations likely will take place behind closed doors with public action not expected until the end of the week. CongressDaily et al.
Hospitalization, Births Top Expenses in 2004
About 33% of every dollar spent on U.S. health care goes toward inpatient hospital care, according to a report by AHRQ. Washington Times, Reuters.
Kaiser Expands Coverage Options
Kaiser Permanente has begun offering high-deductible health plans, as well as PPOs, to small businesses, in a move that has raised questions about the Oakland-based insurer’s future plans. San Francisco Chronicle.
Online Resource Details Medi-Cal Issues
“The Guide to Medi-Cal Programs” highlights eligibility, financial limits, application procedures and other issues affiliated with California’s Medicaid program. Stockton Record.
Glitches Between CMS, Social Security Ongoing Problem
Agency officials have worked to address concerns about the compatibility of their computer systems for more than a year. New York Times.
Schwarzenegger Vetoes Single Payer Bill
As expected, Gov. Schwarzenegger rejected legislation to create a state-run, single payer health system, but he hired two consultants to help draft a health care reform plan that likely will increase access to preventive care. San Francisco Chronicle, Sacramento Bee.
Schwarzenegger Aides Have Insurance Backgrounds
Some consumer advocates have questioned whether the insurance industry received special treatment from the administration of Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, noting that two high-ranking aides previously worked in the industry. Los Angeles Times.