Latest California Healthline Stories
Medical Identity Theft Increasing
Most victims remain unaware of the medical identity theft unless they receive a hospital bill or query from their insurer. Los Angeles Times.
King/Drew Medical Center Fails CMS Inspection
A letter from CMS states that the Los Angeles County hospital will lose about $200 million in federal funding at the end of the year, but agency officials have suggested scenarios in which the facility could remain eligible for the funding. Los Angeles Times.
Public Agencies Must Report Liabilities
New federal accounting standards will require public agencies to disclose future liabilities for health care and other benefits. AP/Houston Chronicle.
State Fines Blue Cross of California
The state’s managed care regulator said the action “is the first penalty in an ongoing investigation.” Other complaints related to insurance policy cancellations have been filed involving Blue Cross, Blue Shield of California and Kaiser Permanente. Sacramento Business Journal et al.
Angelides Raises Issue of HMO Regulation
In a speech to union members, Democratic gubernatorial nominee discussed a proposal to help make health care premiums more affordable by increasing enforcement of existing HMO regulations. Orange County Register.
CDC Recommends Routine HIV Testing
The guidelines were designed to “simplify the HIV testing process” and “overcome several barriers that hindered implementation” of the agency’s previous guidelines. Washington Post et al.