Latest California Healthline Stories
Mental Health Parity Might Not Increase Spending
The elimination of special caps on mental health coverage might not lead to increased spending, according to a study in the New England Journal of Medicine.
Stem Cell Institute Faces Royalties Dispute
A foundation at the University of Wisconsin that holds patent rights for embryonic stem cell lines in the U.S. recently said it would seek royalty payments from California’s stem cell institute. Los Angeles Times.
House Panel Considers State Disclosure Laws on Hospital Infections
House subcommittee members discussed differences in state laws that seek to increase public disclosure of rates of hospital-acquired infections. CQ HealthBeat.
Local Officials Support UC-Merced Medical School
University of California-Merced officials are trying to rally public support for a medical school, which could include an agreement between the university and Stanislaus County. Modesto Bee, Bakersfield Californian.
FTC plans to subpoena 190 drug companies in an investigation of possible anti-competitive practices in the pharmaceutical industry. AP/Los Angeles Times.
Reiner Resigns From State Commission
Film director Rob Reiner announced his resignation as chair of a commission that funds children’s health care and education programs amid allegations of improper spending. Sacramento Bee, et al.
CMS Agreement Provides Funds for Prenatal Care
About $450 million in federal funds will be available for prenatal services under an agreement Gov. Schwarzenegger signed with CMS. Office of the Governor.
State Regulators To Investigate Blue Cross
The state insurance and managed health care departments will separately investigate allegations that Blue Cross of California retroactively cancels insurance policies for members who need high-cost care. Los Angeles Times.
House Panel OKs Budget Resolution Without Entitlement Cuts
The House Budget Committee voted along party lines to approve a budget resolution that does not call for mandatory spending reductions to Medicare or Medicaid. CQ Today, CongressDaily.
State Report Notes Violations at Children’s Hospital
Doctors at Children’s Hospital of Orange County did not properly follow medical guidelines when attempting to remove a tumor from a child’s brain, a Department of Health Services investigation found. Orange County Register, Los Angeles Times.