Latest California Healthline Stories
Grant To Address Nursing Shortage
State grant aims to reduce the nursing shortage in the eastern San Fernando Valley. Five area hospitals expect 400 to 500 nursing vacancies in the next 18 months. Los Angeles Daily News.
Chronic Diseases Leading Cause of Death in Los Angeles County
Chronic diseases account for 80% of deaths in Los Angeles County, and data indicate that deaths from such conditions are more common in lower-income areas. Los Angeles Daily News.
Sillen Named Receiver of Prison Health System
As the receiver of the prison health care system, Robert Sillen will have authority over budgets, personnel, contracts and other aspects of the system, reporting directly to the judge who appointed him. Sacramento Bee, et al.
Reducing Health Costs Priority for CalPERS in 2006
CalPERS board president plans to tackle increasing health care costs in 2006. Feckner is expected to win a second term as head of the $200 billion retirement fund.
Rodham Clinton Addresses Health Care Issues at AARP Meeting
Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-N.Y.) asks AARP to help her in efforts to address problems with the new Medicare prescription drug benefit and the passage of legislation dealing with health care information technology. CQ HealthBeat, et al.
Budget Plan Could Eliminate Funds for Nurse Training
President Bush’s budget proposal includes cuts to training programs for health professionals that some Inland college and hospital officials say could exacerbate the nursing shortage, according to the Riverside Press-Enterprise.
Prior Authorization Requirements of Medicare Drug Benefit Examined
Some pharmacists and physicians say that medications are “not readily available” to Medicare beneficiaries because of preauthorization requirements included in some prescription drug plans, according to the New York Times.
NIH To Investigate Causes of Breast, Prostate Cancers
NIH will review genetic samples to identify mutations that might help identify genetic causes of breast and prostate cancer. Baltimore Sun.
Clinton Announces School Nutrition Initiative
Former President Bill Clinton and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation announce an initiative to provide the nutritional content of cafeteria food to help encourage more healthful eating in schools. AP/Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports.
Doctors Prescribe Treatments Despite Blackbox Warnings
Many patients are prescribed drugs with “black box” warnings even if the drugs are not appropriate for their medical needs, a study finds. Female patients over age 75 who take multiple medications are most likely to be prescribed drugs in violation of black box warnings. Wall Street Journal.