Latest California Healthline Stories
Poll: U.S. Residents Concerned About Reduced Medicare Payments
A survey by the American Medical Association found that although most adults are not aware of a scheduled rate cut, when informed they voiced concerns that it might impede seniors’ access to health care. Raleigh News & Observer et al.
Study Will Determine Nutrition Program Effectiveness
A state grant will allow an Alameda County agency to conduct a statewide study on the effectiveness of a two-year pilot program that encourages schools to purchase fresh produce for students. Oakland Tribune.
Concerns Raised About Health Insurance Market
Officials for the American Medical Association said that the Department of Justice should reduce restrictions on collective bargaining among physician groups to increase physicians’ negotiating power with health insurers. CongressDaily.
Tobacco Tax Measure Likely Would Reduce Sales
A state analysis of a November ballot measure that would increase the tobacco tax to fund health programs found that smoking rates would decline if the measure passes. Tobacco companies have responded with a multimillion dollar advertising campaign against the initiative. BusinessWeek.
Cancer mortality rates declined by less among women than among men, a report found. Long Island Newsday et al.
Sacramento Approves Needle Sales
Sacramento residents will be able to purchase up to 10 syringes without a prescription under a plan approved by the city council to reduce the spread of hepatitis C and HIV. Sacramento Bee.