Latest California Healthline Stories
Age Restriction for Contraceptive Should Not Affect State Laws
FDA’s approval of an emergency contraceptive for women over age 18 will not affect state laws that allow younger women to receive the contraceptive without a prescription. USA Today et al.
Nonprescription Sales of Contraceptive Approved
FDA approved an application for nonprescription sales of the emergency contraceptive Plan B to women ages 18 and older. Washington Post et al.
Hospital Billing Practices Under Consideration
Hospital and consumer advocacy groups have met to discuss hospital billing polices as legislation to regulate the practice moves through the Legislature. Sacramento Bee.
FDA Proposes Changes to National Directory
The regulations are intended to improve the accuracy of information in the National Drug Code Directory. Wall Street Journal, Washington Post.
Expansion of Retail Clinics Expected
More than a dozen operators are planning to open thousands of low-cost, walk-in retail clinics in stores nationwide. USA Today.
Stem Cell Institute To Award Grants
California’s stem cell agency plans to award more than $100 million in research grants to fund ongoing research and work by scientists new to the field of embryonic stem cell research. Sacramento Bee.
Medicare Payments Will Decrease for Some Treatments
CMS in 2007 will reduce Medicare payments to pharmacies that make compounded inhalation drugs for patients with respiratory needs, a letter states. USA Today.
Senator Raises Concerns Over Drug Benefit Error
Sen. Chuck Grassley sent a letter to CMS that raised concerns about reimbursements erroneously sent to Medicare beneficiaries. Washington Post et al.
Immigration Debate Affects Potential Children’s Health Coverage Expansion
KQED’s “The California Report” on Aug. 23 examined how the nationwide debate over undocumented immigration is affecting efforts to expand government-sponsored health insurance coverage for all children in the state. Audio.