Latest California Healthline Stories
U.S. Residents Receive Warning Letters About Imports
The Department of Homeland Security has mailed letters to residents who ordered prescription drugs from abroad, saying that medications were seized and can only be reimported by drug manufactures. Boston Globe.
Health disparities remain between racial groups infected with tuberculosis in California, although the total number of cases in the state is at the lowest point ever. Contra Costa Times.
Senate Committee Hears Newborn Screening Bill
Lawmakers will consider the addition of a cystic fibrosis test for newborns. San Francisco Chronicle.
Children’s Health Insurance Could Help School Nursing Shortage
Enrolling Ventura County children in low-cost health insurance plans could reduce the number of students who rely of school nurses for health care. The county is facing a shortage of school nurses. Ventura County Star.
Officials Call for Universal Health Care
Speakers at a public forum in Alameda County said universal health care is needed to reduce costs and increase access to medical care for residents. Oakland Tribune.
Blue Cross Accused of Illegally Canceling Policies
Lawsuits claim that Blue Cross of California illegally cancels coverage retroactively for patients who are diagnosed with serious medical conditions. Los Angeles Times.
Pfizer Faces Lawsuit Alleging Illegal Marketing of Lipitor
A New Jersey employee-insurance fund is suing Pfizer over allegations that the company marketed Lipitor for uses beyond what has been approved by FDA. Wall Street Journal.
Beneficiaries in Two Medicare Part D Plans Must Choose One
The Bush administration on Monday sent letters to Medicare beneficiaries who are enrolled in two prescription drug plans to inform them that they will be removed from one of their plans in the near future. New York Times, et al.
Governor’s Re-election Campaign Focuses on Accomplishments
Workers’ compensation reforms are highlighted as an accomplishment of Gov. Schwarzenegger’s time in office in the first television advertisement of his re-election campaign. Contra Costa Times, et al.
Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care System ‘Model’ for U.S., Secretary Says
The Department of Veterans Affairs health care system is “a model for our nation,” and VA is “truly one of America’s good news stories,” according to department Secretary Jim Nicholson. Washington Post.