The Pennsylvania governor's administration hopes to take advantage of a law that allows the state to get larger rebates than commercial insurers on the purchasing of medication for its Medicaid program by centralizing the purchasing, something currently handled by HMOs, within the state Department of Public Welfare. Supporters say cost savings could total as much as $95 million per year. However, opponents say hidden expenses could drain the anticipated savings.
The vast majority of hospitals in the U.S. offer high quality healthcare, according to a study, although the costs for the same care varies widely among specific regions and the nation. The 2008 Hospital Value Index, which ranks 1,500 U.S. hospitals based on the value of care offered to patients, also found that numerous hospitals with a reputation for offering high quality care do not necessarily provide high value care.
The U.S. House has overwhelmingly passed legislation that would void a 10.6% cut for doctors who treat Medicare patients. Under the legislation, the voided cuts would be paid for by trimming payments to private health insurers. The legislation passed despite a veto threat by President Bush and protests from the insurance industry. Payment rates are set to drop by 10.6% on July 1 as a result of a formula that calls for cuts when spending exceeds established goals.
Most New York doctors charged with misconduct by the state Health Department will have their names made public and all will have just one day to produce office records demanded by investigators under a patient safety bill agreement announced by Gov. David A. Paterson. The bill also expands infection-control training from doctors and physician assistants to those studying to work in those professions.
Kaiser Permanente has agreed to provide $155 million worth of credits and improved benefits to customers and employers in Colorado. The deal stems from negotiations between the company and state officials in light of Kaiser Permanente's rising net worth. The negotiations were ordered by Colorado Insurance Commissioner Marcy Morrison.
Birmingham, AL-based Brookwood Medical Center has filed an application for state approval of a $19 million, freestanding emergency department. The Certificate of Need application says the lack of hospital-level emergency care in the densely populated area of North Shelby County demands such a project. The expected growth of the region in the immediate future further highlights the need, said Brookwood representatives.