Latest California Healthline Stories
CalPERS saved $7 million over two years after it began offering patients full coverage for colonoscopy screenings if the tests were conducted at an ambulatory surgery center, according to a new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine. The study, which was conducted by UC-Berkeley researchers, found no variation in complication rate for CalPERS patients after implementing the new coverage policy. Becker’s GI & Endoscopy, Reuters/Huffington Post.
Advocates Call for Extension of Health Programs Under Sept. 11th Victim Compensation Fund
Rescue workers and survivors of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks are urging federal lawmakers to extend programs that offer compensation and health care services to individuals exposed to toxic chemicals as a result of the attacks. In 2010, Congress passed an act to give $2.8 billion to the Sept. 11th Victim Compensation Fund, which provides compensation to individuals who suffered health problems as a result of the attacks. Patient advocates contend that the programs as currently funded will not be able to provide compensation for every worker whose health was affected because of the attacks. Further, they argue the programs are vital for individuals facing complicated and often incurable conditions. AP/San Diego Union Tribune.
First FDA-Approved Biosimilar Rx Drug Enters Market
The first FDA-approved biosimilar medication, Novartis’ Zarxio, entered the market on Thursday, sparking a new era of competition between high-cost biologic treatments and similar, lower-cost medications. Zarxio was introduced with a wholesale price of $275.66 for one 300 microgram syringe and $438.98 for a 480 mcg dose. Zarxio’s introduction to the market could clear the way for other biosimilars that are currently under review. Modern Healthcare.
CMS: California Has Highest Number of ACA Exchange Enrollees
Federal data show that as of June 30 California had the highest health insurance exchange enrollment, with about 1.4 million enrollees. Overall, the data show about 9.9 million U.S. residents had selected and paid for health coverage through the Affordable Care Act’s federal and state insurance exchanges. The Hill et al.
CMS Tackles Disparities for Low-Income, Minority Medicare Enrollees
CMS’ Office of Minority Health has released a plan that aims to reduce health disparities among low-income and minority seniors enrolled in Medicare within four years. The plan includes six priorities for removing barriers to care, such as expanding the use of standardized data and understanding how CMS programs influence disparities. USA Today, CMS plan.
Calif. Senate Approves Workers’ Comp Gender Parity Legislation
Yesterday, the California Senate approved a bill that would prohibit medical problems primarily affecting women — such as breast cancer, pregnancy or menopause — from being considered pre-existing conditions when calculating workers’ compensation benefits. AP/Washington Times.
Effort To Extend Covered Calif. to Undocumented Adults Dropped
State Sen. Ricardo Lara has removed from a bill language that sought a federal waiver to allow undocumented adults to buy health coverage through the state insurance exchange. Lara says he will pursue a federal waiver to allow such coverage next year. AP/Long Beach Press-Telegram.
Study Finds Siblings Are Top Cause of Whooping Cough Infection for Infants
Siblings between the ages of four and nine are the most common source of pertussis infection for infants, according to a study published Monday in the journal Pediatrics. The study found that mothers, who previously were the most common source of infection for infants, transmitted the disease in about 20% of cases studied, while siblings were responsible for transmission in more than 35% of cases. KQED’s “State of Health.”
Assembly Approves Bills To Increase Oversight of Foster Kids’ Rx Use
The Assembly has advanced a package of three bills aimed at reducing the amount of psychiatric medication prescribed to children in California’s foster care system. The bills now goes to the state Senate for a final vote before heading to Gov. Brown, who has until Oct. 11 to sign them. San Jose Mercury News.
Los Angeles Officials Move To Ban Smokeless Tobacco From Sports Venues
On Tuesday, the Los Angeles City Council unanimously approved a motion to ban smokeless tobacco from all sports venues — both amateur and professional — in the city. The motion, which was introduced in June by city Council member Jose Huizar, calls for the city attorney to draft an ordinance within 30 days. The council will then take a final vote on the measure. KPCC’s “KPCC News,” Los Angeles Times, “L.A. Now.”