Latest California Healthline Stories
Some MDs Will Withdraw From Medicare if Payments Decrease
Some physicians might limit or end participation in Medicare if reimbursement rates are reduced, the American Medical Association says. AP/Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
California Healthline Highlights Recent Hospital News
Centinela Freeman HealthSystem reaches agreement with Blue Cross of California; Sutter Health increases spending for capital projects
New Jersey To Extend Age of Dependency for Health Insurance
Beginning in May, unmarried New Jersey residents up to age 30 will be eligible for health insurance coverage as a dependent under a parent’s policy. The new age of dependency will be the oldest in the nation. USA Today.
Budget Resolution With Additional Spending Approved
The Senate approved a budget resolution after adding more than $16 billion to the cap on discretionary spending proposed by President Bush. The added spending includes $7 billion for programs under the jurisdiction of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, HHS, Education and Related Agencies. CongressDaily, et al.
Stem Cell Program Influences Other States
Other states are pushing ahead with the development of stem cell research programs, as funding for the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine is tied up in court. USA Today.
More Employers Offering High-Deductible Health Plans
A survey finds an increase in the number of large employers in the U.S. offering high-deductible health plans as part of employee health plan options. Reuters.
Single-Payer Health Care Legislation Wins Union Endorsement
California Nurses Association members are supporting state and national bills to create a single-payer health care system. Oakland Tribune, San Francisco Chronicle.
Federal Bill Would Override State Health Coverage Laws
California laws mandating that insurers cover certain services could be preempted by federal legislation a Senate committee has approved. Los Angeles Times.
Bush Nominates von Eschenbach for FDA Commissioner
President Bush appointed Andrew von Eschenbach, who also is director of the National Cancer Institute, acting commissioner for FDA in September 2005 and now has nominated him as permanent head of the agency. New York Times, et al.
Los Angeles County AIDS Funding Cut
The federal government cited previous performance and changing needs as the reasons behind a $1.9 million reduction in funding for county HIV/AIDS programs. Los Angeles Times.