Latest California Healthline Stories
Rodham Clinton Returns to Health Care Issues
Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton is expected to pursue a universal health coverage system for children through an expansion of the state children’s health insurance program. New York Times, San Francisco Chronicle.
Low-Income Beneficiaries Targeted for Drug Benefit Enrollment
The Bush administration has begun a new effort to enroll low-income Medicare beneficiaries in the prescription drug benefit. USA Today et al.
Health Care Emerging as Issue in Governor’s Race
Democratic gubernatorial nominee Phil Angelides said he would make changes to the California tax code to fund children’s health insurance, while Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger called for a summit to develop a new health care system in California. AP/Fresno Bee.
Medicare Will Cover Cardiovascular Rehab Programs
Medicare for the first time agrees to cover “intensive cardiac rehabilitation plans” developed by two physicians. Los Angeles Times.
U.S. Supreme Court Declines Review of PBM Case
The U.S. Supreme Court will not consider a lower court ruling that upholds a Maine law that requires pharmacy benefit managers to disclose the discounts they negotiate with drugmakers. CQ HealthBeat.
Lawmakers, Advocates Focus on Children’s Health Insurance
A proposed tobacco tax increase and legislation to expand children’s health insurance programs could provide all California children with health care coverage. Los Angeles Times.
Hospital Group Challenges Blue Cross Payment Policy
A lawsuit by the California Hospital Association alleges that a new Blue Cross of California payment policy for colonoscopies will compromise patient safety, a charge the insurer denies. Los Angeles Times, San Francisco Chronicle.