Latest California Healthline Stories
Angelides Vows to Reduce Asthma-Related Hospitalizations
Phil Angelides, the Democratic gubernatorial candidate, said he would reduce hospital visits for respiratory problems by strengthening air-quality standards, expanding children’s health insurance, and providing more money for asthma research and prevention efforts. San Jose Mercury News et al.
Heat-Illness Prevention Regulations Made Permanent
Regulations adopted last year requiring employers to provide shade for workers and take other measures to prevent heat-related illnesses were made permanent on Thursday. Merced Sun-Star et al.
Eight in 10 Seniors in Medicare Prescription Drug Plans Satisfied, Survey Finds
More than eight in 10 seniors enrolled in Medicare prescription drug plans are satisfied with their plans, a new survey finds. AP/San Francisco Chronicle et al.
House Passes Bill To Promote of Health IT
The House voted 270-148 to approve an amended version of a Senate bill passed last November that would promote the use of health care information technology. CQ Today.
Criminal Probe Launched Over Plavix Deal
Bristol-Myers Squibb and Sanofi-Aventis are the subject of a criminal probe over the market entry delay of Apotex’s generic version of Plavix. AP/Philadelphia Inquirer et al.
Angelides Focuses on Health Care Reforms
Treasurer Phil Angelides discussed health care reforms he would seek as governor at campaign stops in Bakersfield and Visalia, including obtaining prescription drug discounts and expanding children’s health insurance. Fresno Bee, Bakersfield Californian.
Medicare Drug Benefit Could Have Election Implications
Some experts say the number of Medicare beneficiaries who are reaching the “doughnut hole” in prescription drug coverage could have political implications for the November congressional elections. USA Today et al.
More Retail Clinics Reach Agreements With Traditional Providers
Some large regional health care systems have opened clinics to compete directly with retail clinics, while some medical groups and physician offices have signed contracts to supervise staff at retail clinics. Wall Street Journal.
Paid Sick Day Mandate Could Go on Ballot
A coalition of worker advocacy groups is trying to place a measure on the November ballot that would require San Francisco employers to offer paid sick days for workers. The measure appears to have enough support from supervisors to qualify for the ballot. San Francisco Examiner.