Latest California Healthline Stories
Health Law Sleepers: Six Surprising Health Items That Could Disappear With ACA Repeal
It’s unclear what will become of some of the rules and regulations advanced by the 2010 health law as Republicans in Congress work to dismantle the sweeping measure.
Hospitals And Surgery Centers Play Tug-Of-War Over America’s Ailing Knees
As Medicare considers paying for knee replacement procedures outside the hospital, doctors debate patient choice and the potential for post-operation complications.
When Looking For A Nursing Home, You May Get Little Help From Your Hospital
Hospitals rarely help patients find the best nursing home. When they do advise, hospitals sometimes push their own facilities.
After-Hours ER Care May Come With A Doctor’s Surcharge
Patients sometimes find an additional charge, generally between $30 and $200, tacked onto their bill for visiting a hospital emergency room between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m.
Latest Hospital Injury Penalties Include Crackdown On Antibiotic Resistant Germs
Medicare reduced payments to 769 hospitals in the program, punishing facilities that have high rates of patient injuries, including infections, blood clots, falls and bed sores. This year, federal officials also added the prevalence of two dangerous bacteria.
California Hospitals Improve Infection Rates But Threat Remains
Hospital-acquired infections kill 100,000 U.S. patients every year and cost $20 billion.
Women Doctors May be Better for Patients’ Health
Older patients who were treated in the hospital by women physicians were less likely to be die or be readmitted to the hospital within 30 days of discharge, according to a new study.
Grilled About Deadly Superbug Outbreaks, Execs At Scope Maker Olympus Take Fifth
Lawyers who deposed top company officials in a civil case say they declined to answer questions about their failure to warn American hospitals of infection risks. Industry giant Olympus also is the subject of a criminal probe.
The Throwaway Scope: A Way To Ditch Superbugs?
Small manufacturers are betting that disposable medical scopes will slash the risk of infection during procedures. Some doctors are skeptical of the cheaper models.
Slowing Down Hospital Discharge Requires Fast Action
Seniors who feel they’re being rushed out of the hospital can file an appeal to halt the process but they need to act fast.