Latest California Healthline Stories
Health Net reported that second-quarter earnings and revenue increased over the same period last year, but analysts still believe the company eventually will be acquired. Los Angeles Daily News.
Former HHS Secretary Recommends Medicaid Reforms
Tommy Thompson will recommend that responsibility for long-term care of elderly Medicaid beneficiaries shift to the federal government. Washington Post.
Stem Cell Agency Approves Grant Program
The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine is expected to make a formal request for grant applications this month, setting the stage for the agency to award its first research grants in February. The grants will fund human embryonic stem cell research. San Jose Mercury News, et al.
Blacks, Latinos With Diabetes More Likely To Be Hospitalized
Potentially preventable hospitalizations for a number of conditions are more likely among blacks and Latinos than among others, a study finds. Washington Times.
Angelides Calls for ‘Crack Down’ on HMO Earnings
Phil Angelides, the Democratic candidate for governor, said he would use existing law to prevent excessive HMO administrative costs, although a spokesperson for Gov. Schwarzenegger said he believes the law only authorizes the governor to order an investigation of high earnings. San Diego Union-Tribune.
Merck Not at Fault in California Vioxx Trial
A California jury in the first trial in the state related to Vioxx found that the medication did not cause a nonfatal heart attack experienced by the plaintiff. AP/Hartford Courant et al.
County Mental Health Spending Plan Approved
Fresno County officials expect to receive state funding within the next month for several new mental health programs, including case management and family support services. Fresno Bee.
Device Makers Pleased With Revised Payment Rule
Analysts said revised changes to Medicare payment rules are good for device manufacturers, specialty hospitals and general acute care hospitals. New York Times et al.
State To Study Public Health Effects of Extreme Heat
A large death toll resulting from a statewide heat wave last month has prompted state and federal officials to study health risks associated with hot weather and develop policies for heat emergencies. San Jose Mercury News, Los Angeles Times.
Medicare ‘Doughnut Hole’ Criticized
Rep. Sherrod Brown and Sen. Debbie Stabenow requested a solution to the gap in Medicare prescription drug coverage, called the “doughnut hole.” Dayton Daily News, Cleveland Plain Dealer.