Morning Breakouts

Latest California Healthline Stories

San Diego’s Tent Shelters For Homeless Get Boost In Funding, But Not Everyone’s Happy About That

Some advocates are angry about pouring more money into a project that they see as piecemeal when it could go to other initiatives. In other news across the state: the Desert Healthcare District board race heats up; a Fresno city councilman warns about political grandstanding over cannabis regulations; Yolo County students are being urged to sign up for CalFresh; and more.

Calif. Facility Stages A 1950s-Era Town Square As Part Of Its Reminiscence Therapy For Dementia Patients

The style of treatment uses prompts from a person’s past — such as music, movies and photographs — to elicit memories and encourage conversation and engagement, and has been gaining traction after having success in other countries.

Brown Vetoes Bill Sparked By Controversy At San Joaquin County’s Medical Examiner Office

The legislation that Gov. Jerry Brown knocked down came about after famous pathologist Dr. Bennet Omalu accused Sheriff Steve Moore of interfering with investigations to protect law enforcement. Brown said decisions about how to structure coroner services are best left to local elected officials.

CRISPR’s International Patchwork Of Patents

There’s been a bitter and fierce battle between the Broad Institute and the University of California over patents for the technology. In the U.S., courts have come down firmly on the side of the Broad Institute, but internationally it’s a different story.

California Sues AbbVie Saying It Used Old-Fashioned Doctor Kickbacks, Network Of Nurses To Boost Prescriptions

Over a five-year period, the drugmaker offered everything from cash, meals and drinks, to gifts and trips to get them to prescribe its Humira rheumatoid arthritis treatment, the lawsuit claims. California Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones also alleges the company engaged nurses who acted as “ambassadors” to visit patients at home and help with administering the drug.

Cigna-Express Scripts Deal Gets Green Light From Justice Department, Clearing Largest Hurdle In Merger Path

The companies say their merger would drive higher quality care and affordability by offering insurance and pharmacy services under one roof. The deal is just one in a string of acquisitions currently reshaping the health landscape as businesses struggle to survive in the ever-changing industry.

Kavanaugh And His Accuser Set To Testify At Hearing On Monday; Republicans Brace For Possible Political Fallout

Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh and his accuser, professor Christine Blasey Ford, will both testify publicly under oath before the Senate Judiciary Committee. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and President Donald Trump are confident the nomination can be salvaged, while some Republicans are anxious that events could backfire on them in the upcoming midterms.