Latest California Healthline Stories
Judge To Hear Closing Arguments in Mercury-Labeling Suit
Closing arguments will be heard this week in a case in which the state argues that canners violate state law by not warning about the mercury present in tuna fish. San Francisco Chronicle.
Officials Develop Language Assistance Regulations
A law that requires health insurance plans to provide language assistance to members could take effect by July 2007 under draft regulations. Modesto Bee.
Proposition 63 Funds Could Help Win Additional Funds for Housing
The head of the state commission to oversee mental health care spending under the tax is discussing an agreement with Gov. Schwarzenegger that could lead to additional aide in providing housing for homeless people with mental illnesses. Los Angeles Times.
Expanded Mental Health Services Could Reduce Crime
Using Proposition 63 funds to expand mental health outreach efforts in San Joaquin County could lead to a reduction in homicides, some officials say. Stockton Record.
State Ranks Hospitals by Heart Surgery Death Rates
A first-of-its-kind state report ranked California hospitals that perform cardiac bypass surgeries in an attempt to give patients more information when seeking medical care. Los Angeles Times, et al.
Accuracy Questioned of Test for Genetic Mutation Linked to Breast Cancer
A genetic test used to determine risk for breast cancer resulted in false negatives in certain cases for some patients, according to a study. New York Times, et al.
Medicare To Cover Test To Determine Need for Cardiac Device
CMS has decided to allow Medicare coverage for a noninvasive test to determine the need for implantable cardioverter defibrillators. Wall Street Journal, et al.
Governor Will Not Replace Reiner at State Commission
Film director Rob Reiner will remain as head of a commission that funds children’s health care and education programs unless evidence is provided that the commission improperly funded an ad campaign, Gov. Schwarzenegger said. Sacramento Bee, Fresno Bee.
Staff Increases at State Mental Hospitals Proposed
Critics say the Department of Mental Health’s proposed budget for 2007 includes funding for too many psychologists and not enough registered nurses and psychiatric technicians at state hospitals and could lead to increased patient violence. San Luis Obispo Tribune.
High Levels of Carcinogens Present in California Air
At least 10 chemicals found to cause cancer are present in the air in California at levels that exceed federal guidelines, the Environmental Protection Agency found. Los Angeles Times.