Latest California Healthline Stories
Confidentiality Needed in Stem Cell Grant Discussions
California Institute for Regenerative Medicine President Zach Hall testified that confidential meetings to discuss grant applications are necessary in the third day of the stem cell trial. AP/Contra Costa Times.
Seized Medications Released to Consumers
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection agency has begun to release hundreds of packages of prescription drugs that were seized in transit from Canadian pharmacies over the past several months. Los Angeles Times, et al.
Federal Takeover of Health System Marred Tenure of Corrections Secretary
A federal judge’s appointment of a receiver to oversee the California prison health care system stands as a shortcoming of Roderick Hickman’s tenure as secretary of the Department of Corrections. Hickman announced his resignation Saturday. Contra Costa Times.
Some Medicare Beneficiaries Enrolled in Two Drug Plans
Some Medicare beneficiaries might be charged two sets of copayments and premiums because of errors that have resulted in their being enrolled in two Medicare prescription drug plans. New York Times, et al.
Vote To Divide County Health Department Delayed
Los Angeles County supervisors delayed a vote on splitting the county health department and instead called for a report outlining methods to grant the public health division more autonomy. Los Angeles Times.
Klein: State Controls Stem Cell Funds
Independent Citizens’ Oversight Committee Chair Robert Klein testifies that the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine is under state control in the second day of the stem cell trial. Oakland Tribune, et al.
Tuolumne County Considers Options for Public Hospital
County supervisors ordered a report on financing and the construction costs of replacing Tuolumne General Hospital in Sonora. The report will be presented in two weeks and delay consideration of proposals to reduce services at the hospital or close the facility. Modesto Bee.
Veterans of Iraq War Seek Mental Health Care
More than one-third of veterans who served in Iraq in the first year of the Iraq war sought mental treatment after returning, a new study finds. Baltimore Sun, et al.
Proposed County Tax Increase Goes to Ballot
Santa Clara County residents will vote on a half-cent tax increase in June, with proceeds expected to help fund health and human services programs and transportation. San Jose Mercury News.
Fresno County Mental Health Services Face Changes
Hours will be reduced at some mental health clinics and staff positions will be eliminated under a plan Fresno County supervisors approved to address the county Department of Behavioral Health’s budget deficit. Fresno Bee.