Latest California Healthline Stories
Third-Generation Mexicans in Calif. Less Likely To Get Diabetes Care
A new study by the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research finds that third-generation Mexican adults in California are more likely to have diabetes but less likely to receive care for their condition, compared with their first- and second-generation counterparts. HealthyCal.
Long Beach-Based Molina Healthcare Notifying More Than 54K Members About Data Breach
Long Beach-based Molina Healthcare is notifying more than 54,000 current and former members that their protected health data could have been compromised when a former employee of CVS sent the information to his personal computer in March. The affected data include names, CVS IDs, CVS ExtraCare Health Card numbers, member IDs, prescription drug plan numbers, prescription plan start dates and end dates. Molina said the breach could lead to identity theft. The company is working with CVS to address the situation. Health IT Security, eSecurity Planet.
Advocates for Disabled Speak Out Against Plan To Permanently Close Sonoma Developmental Center
During a hearing on Monday, advocates for individuals with disabilities spoke out against the planned closure of Sonoma Developmental Center. California legislative analysts have recommended permanently closing the center, which cares for more than 400 patients with severe disabilities, and a similar facility in Orange County to save money. State Sen. Mike McGuire said, “It’s unacceptable that the draft plan lacks detail about the contingency planning for the placement of the most medically fragile residents in the state system.” Santa Rosa Press Democrat.
Efforts in California, Other Areas Aim To Reduce Sepsis Rates, Deaths
California and other areas have taken part in various initiatives to help combat high rates of sepsis, which affects more than one million people and kills about 150,000 annually. For example, under the Patient Safety First initiative, 49 California hospitals have reduced their average sepsis fatality rates. CHCF Center for Health Reporting/Orange County Register.
Employer-Sponsored Coverage Premiums Up Slightly, Survey Finds
Kaiser Family Foundation’s annual employer health benefits survey finds average annual premiums for employer-sponsored health plans rose by 4% this year, while deductibles and the number of employees enrolled in high-deductible health plans increased at a more rapid pace. AP/Washington Times et al.
17.6M Insured Under ACA; 10.5M Uninsured Eligible for ACA Plans
The Obama administration has announced that about 17.6 million U.S. residents have gained health insurance because of the Affordable Care Act, up from HHS’ March estimate of about 16.4 million. During the ACA’s upcoming open enrollment period, the administration plans to focus on five regions of the U.S. that still have high rates of uninsured residents. Washington Post, HHS release.
47 Calif. Counties Offer Health Services to Undocumented Adults
Yesterday, Contra Costa County became the 47th county in California to approve a program providing preventive, non-emergency care to undocumented adults. The county’s one-year, $1 million pilot program could launch as early as November and would give participants access to immunizations, mental health care and other services. KQED’s “State of Health,” San Jose Mercury News.
California Collected $88B for Health, Education Programs in 2012
New Census Bureau data show that California in 2012 collected about $412 billion in taxes, fees and other payments. About $88 billion of that money went to local governments for health care and education programs. Sacramento Bee‘s “Capitol Alert,” Census Bureau data.
CDC: Three Deaths, 558 Illnesses Linked to Mexico-Grown Cucumbers From San Diego Distributor
On Tuesday, federal officials confirmed three deaths and at least 558 illnesses in 33 states related to a recent Salmonella outbreak linked to imported cucumbers from Mexico. CDC said California — where the cucumber distribution company is located — has reported the most cases, followed by Arizona, Utah, Minnesota and Wisconsin. CNN Wire/KTLA 5, NBC News.
California Lawmakers Work To Address Potential ED Shortage in South Orange County
California lawmakers are considering bills that would turn Saddleback Memorial Medical Center’s emergency department in San Clemente — which is expected close and become an ambulatory facility — into a satellite ED for Saddleback’s hospital in Laguna Hills. Lawmakers who support the proposal say the area will suffer without an ED, while others are concerned that a satellite ED may not be the best option. Orange County Register.