Latest California Healthline Stories
California Healthline Highlights Recent Hospital News
Hospitals in San Diego County to seek bond measures; Eden Medical Center workers approve contract
Bush To Nominate Permanent FDA Commissioner
Some insiders say President Bush likely will nominate acting FDA Commissioner Andrew von Eschenbach as permanent commissioner. Wall Street Journal.
Ortiz To Run for Secretary of State
Sen. Deborah Ortiz (D-Sacramento), chair of the Senate Health Committee, filed papers to begin her candidacy for secretary of state. Sacramento Bee.
Senate Committee Approves Budget Resolution
In approving the resolution, Republicans rejected proposed amendments on pandemic flu preparations, veterans’ health care and interoperable radios for first responders, among other measures. AP/Houston Chronicle, et al.
Three Appointed to State Health Commissions
Gov. Schwarzenegger announces the appointment of members to three health-related commissions. Office of the Governor release.
Closing Arguments Submitted in Stem Cell Trial
Attorneys in the lawsuit challenging California’s stem cell research program submit closing arguments online and have until next week to file reply briefs. San Francisco Chronicle.
Nursing Home Chain Agrees To Settle Negligence Suit
The state’s second-largest nursing home chain agreed to pay a $1.3 million fine and improve patient care and staff training to settle a civil suit filed by the attorney general. Los Angeles Times, Contra Costa Times.
County Supervisors Approve Needle Exchange
The San Luis Obispo County needle exchange program will allow pharmacists to sell needles to adults without prescriptions. San Luis Obispo Tribune.
Medicare Drug Benefit Problems Have Decreased
CMS Administrator Mark McClellan says that more than 95% of Medicare beneficiaries “are having a smooth experience the first time they go to the pharmacy counter.” Boston Globe.
IOM Issues Recommendations on Medicare QIOs
The responsibility for investigating complaints from Medicare beneficiaries should be not fall to quality improvement organizations, the Institute of Medicine says. Washington Post, et al.