Simpler 'Obamacare' application to be released Tuesday

The first draft was as mind-numbing and complex as tax forms. Now the Obama administration is unveiling a simplified application for health insurance benefits under the federal health-care overhaul.

http://www.thetowntalk.com/viewart/20130430/NEWS01/130430002/Simpler-Obamacare-application-released-Tuesday-

Trade Group Urges Indiana Governor to Work Comp Bill

The Indiana General Assembly ended a very productive 2013 legislative session early in the morning on April 27 having passed workers' compensation reform, legislation permitting the use of electronic devices to show evidence of insurance as well as positive uninsured motorist excess liability provisions, according to the Property Casualty Insurers ... (more)

http://www.insurancejournal.com/news/midwest/2013/04/30/290225.htm

Obama administration simplifies health care form

The first draft was as mind-numbing as a tax form. Tuesday the Obama administration unveiled simplified application forms for health insurance benefits under the federal health care overhaul.

http://thedailyrecord.com/2013/04/30/obama-administration-simplifies-health-care-form/

Advancements In Metastatic Melanoma

Cancer is one of the most widespread diseases and the leading cause of death worldwide.

http://lasvegasnewstrip.com/index.php/news/health-news/533-advancements-in-metastatic-melanoma

NRCC tries another reboot

House Republicans are targeting popular "mommy blog" websites in a digital ad campaign beginning Tuesday as part of an ongoing effort to repair the GOP's image with certain voting blocs - in this case swing female voters - who have sided decisively with Democrats in recent elections.

http://capitolfax.com/2013/04/30/nrcc-tries-another-reboot/

Obama administration simplifies health care form

This application obtained by The Associated Press shows the short form for the new federal Affordable Care Act.

http://gazettextra.com/news/2013/apr/30/obama-administration-simplifies-health-care-form/

Fla. Senate passes Negron's Medicaid bill

The Senate has passed a bill that would accept more than $50 billion federal dollars and offer health coverage to more than 1 million Floridians under the federal health law.

http://www.miamiherald.com/2013/04/30/3372771/fla-senate-passes-negrons-medicaid.html

FDA may ask for new trial of AVEO's kidney cancer drug; stock drops 24 percent

Stock in AVEO Oncology plummeted Tuesday after documents posted to the website of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration indicated that the company may need another trial of the kidney cancer drug candidate for which it was hoping to get approval on Thursday.

http://www.bizjournals.com/boston/blog/bioflash/2013/04/fda-may-ask-for-new-trial-of-aveos.html?ana=RSS&s=article_search&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+vertical_37+%28Physician+Practices+Industry+News%29

Obama says implementing health law harder as some states opt out

... reporters on Tuesday. "It puts more of a burden on us." The state-based exchanges, created under the 2010 healthcare law, were designed to offer individuals a centralized place to buy health insurance policies for 2014. But a number of mostly ...

http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/04/30/usa-healthcare-obama-idUSW1E8MD02O20130430?feedType=RSS&feedName=financialsSector

Microsoft Updates Cloud Agreement For HIPAA Rules

Cloud service providers are starting to take notice of the new HIPAA security regulations that define them as "business associates" of HIPAA-covered entities such as healthcare providers and health plans.

http://www.informationweek.com/healthcare/policy/microsoft-updates-cloud-agreement-for-hi/240153864?cid=RSSfeed_IWK_ALL

Medicaid Providers Seek Regulatory Balance with SB 1803

Medicaid providers will speak out today in favor of Senate Bill 1803 before the Human Services Committee of the Texas House of Representatives.

http://www.gilmermirror.com/view/full_story/22415455/article-Medicaid-Providers-Seek-Regulatory-Balance-with-SB-1803?instance=home_news_bullets

Zohydro - Is There Enough Upside For Zogenix?

Zogenix is a pharmaceutical company specializing in the commercialization and development of products for the treatment of central nervous system disorders and pain.

http://seekingalpha.com/article/1384501-zohydro-is-there-enough-upside-for-zogenix?source=feed

New health insurance form now down to three pages

After months of jokes about the new form for the health insurance marketplaces being longer than the 2010 health care law, the government has released a new, "short" three-page form, down from 21 pages.

http://www.courierpostonline.com/usatoday/article/2122549

McConnell speaks in Pikeville about Obama's "regulatory nightmare"

U.S. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell says President Obama has overreached, with policies that have slowed the growth of the American economy.

http://www.williamsondailynews.com/view/full_story/22411516/article-McConnell-speaks-in-Pikeville-about-Obama%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%9Cregulatory-nightmare%E2%80%9D?instance=popular

Obamacare applications get shorter

Jim Acosta, CNN National Political Correspondent, - Applications for health insurance coverage under President Barack Obama's sweeping healthcare law will go from 21 pages to three, according to a White House official, who said the change was part of an effort to simplify the implementation of Obamacare.

http://fox43.com/2013/04/30/obamacare-applications-get-shorter/

Republicans Trying Hard To Make Obamacare A Train Wreck

Despite what Max Baucus said, Obamacare is not a 'train wreck' rolling toward a head-on collision.

http://crooksandliars.com/karoli/republicans-trying-hard-make-obamacare-trai

Obama says his health care law already benefiting majority of Americans who have health care

President Barack Obama argues that his signature health care law is already benefiting most Americans even if they don't know it.

http://www.680news.com/2013/04/30/obama-says-his-health-care-law-already-benefiting-majority-of-americans-who-have-health-care/

American Society of Addiction Medicine Urges an End to Interference...

A major policy statement from the American Society of Addiction Medicine states that treatment decisions on the use of FDA-approved medications for addiction to opioids should be made only by skilled physicians.

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2013/4/prweb10681365.htm

Pre-Publication Trial Results Demonstrate Safety and Effectiveness of ...

Pre-publication results from a national clinical trial show that prostate cancer treatment with CyberKnife robotic radiosurgery demonstrated excellent preservation of sexual health and resulted in no significant side effects or complications.

http://www.freshnews.com/news/791697/pre-publication-trial-results-demonstrate-safety-and-effectiveness-cyberknife-prostate-

Obama says his health care law mostly in place

President Barack Obama argues that his signature health care law is already benefiting most Americans even if they don't know it.

http://newsok.com/obama-says-his-health-care-law-mostly-in-place/article/feed/535081?custom_click=rss&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+newsok%2Fbusiness+%28NewsOK.com+RSS+-+business%29

Pre-Publication Trial Results Demonstrate Safety and Effectiveness of ...

"It is multi-institutional, has enrolled large numbers of patients, and is demonstrating the long-term safety and efficacy of robotic SBRT for prostate cancer." "This is great news for men in the Denver metro area and around the nation seeking a non-invasive alternative to surgery, radioactive seed implant or traditional radiation therapy ... (more)

http://eon.businesswire.com/news/eon/20130430005073/en/Pre-Publication-Trial-Results-Demonstrate-Safety-Effectiveness-CyberKnife

Obama administration simplifies health care form

Details to be released Tuesday include a three-page short form that single people can fill out, administration officials said.

http://newsok.com/obama-administration-simplifies-health-care-form/article/feed/535020?custom_click=rss&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+newsok%2Fbusiness+%28NewsOK.com+RSS+-+business%29

Obama says his health care law already benefiting majority of Americans who have health care

President Barack Obama argues that his signature health care law is already benefiting most Americans even if they don't know it.

http://www.brandonsun.com/business/breaking-news/obama-says-his-health-care-law-already-benefiting-majority-of-americans-who-have-health-care-205399791.html

Obama says his health care law mostly in place

President Barack Obama argues that his signature health care law is already benefiting most Americans even if they don't know it.

http://www.miamiherald.com/2013/04/30/3372701/obama-says-his-health-care-law.html

ObamaCare: Where's The Lefty Outrage? Part V

The evidence keeps piling up that ObamaCare is going to have some very unpleasant effects for employees and employers.

http://www.conservativeblog.org/amyridenour/2013/4/30/obamacare-wheres-the-lefty-outrage-part-v.html

Randall DeSoto: Obamacare: A Progress Report?

As the fateful date of Obamacare's arrival in 2014 approaches, an in-progress review seems in order.

http://townhall.com/columnists/randalldesoto/2013/04/30/obamacare-a-progress-report-n1582841

Obama to hold presserTuesday morning

President Obama is scheduled to hold a press briefing in the Brady Press Briefing Room at 10:15 Tuesday morning, the White House just announced.

http://lucianne.com/thread/?artnum=733502

Another Missed DeadlineAhead for Obamacare

"It is not anticipated that anya recommendation would be targeted until 2019." -- Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius in House testimony last week on the still-vacant 15-member Independent Payment Advisory Board, which is supposed to begin work on Tuesday.

http://lucianne.com/thread/?artnum=733497

FDA Approves ACTEMRAA for Children Living with a Rare Form of Arthritis

The medicine can be used in children two years of age and older with active disease.

http://eon.businesswire.com/news/eon/20130430006327/en/FDA-Approves-ACTEMRA%C2%AE-Children-Living-Rare-Form

View Press Release

The medicine can be used in children two years of age and older with active disease.

http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20130430006320/en/FDA-Approves-ACTEMRA%C2%AE-Children-Living-Rare-Form

Obamacare application simplified

The Washington Post's Wonkblog reports that the feds have developed a simpler application for health coverage under the federal Affordable Care Act, otherwise known as Obamacare.

http://www.arktimes.com/ArkansasBlog/archives/2013/04/30/obamacare-application-simplified

Obama administration simplifies health care form

The first draft was as mind-numbing and complex as tax forms. Now the Obama administration is unveiling a simplified application for health insurance benefits under the federal health care overhaul.

http://ap.savannahnow.com/pstories/us/20130430/1129967160.shtml

Poll: 40% don't know ObamaCare is still law

Forty percent of the public does not know that President Obama's healthcare law remains on the books and is being implemented, according to a new poll from the Kaiser Family Foundation.

http://thehill.com/blogs/healthwatch/politics-elections/296907-poll-40-dont-know-obamacare-is-still-law

Obama administration simplifies health care form

This April 10, 2013 file photo shows Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Acting Administrator Marilyn Tavenner speaking during a news conference at the Health and Humans Services Department in Washington, Wednesday, April 10, 2013, to discuss the Health Department's fiscal 2014 budget.

http://www.deseretnews.com/article/765628365/Obama-administration-simplifies-health-care-form.html

FDA Tells Delcath No Approval Without New Clinical Trial

In a scorching review, the FDA makes it fairly clear that Melblez will not be approved until Delcath conducts a new clinical trial.

http://www.thestreet.com/story/11909450/1/fda-tells-delcath-no-approval-without-new-clinical-trial.html?cm_ven=RSSFeed&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+tsc%2Ffeeds%2Frss%2Flatest-stories+%28TheStreet.com+Latest+Headlines%29

Rancid food is better than no food at all.

With health coverage for one million Floridians hanging in the balance, time is running out on the Republican-dominated Florida Legislature to approve the health law's Medicaid expansion this year.

http://www.floridatrend.com/article/15557/who-said-that

Medicaid expansion, education bills up for debate in Legislature on April 30: Capitol Beat

The Times-Picayune reporters Jeff Adelson, Lauren McGaughy and Sheila V Kumar cover Louisiana's 2013 legislative session.

http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/04/medicaid_expansion_education_b.html

8 health stories to know today: Caffeinated food, anyone?

Kermit Gosnell trial: How an abortion doctor's murder trial has sparked a new battle in the U.S. culture wars Kermit Gosnell was either a "wolf in sheep's clothing" who preyed on poor women and murdered newborns in his West Philadelphia abortion clinic by cutting their spinal cords, or a mixed-race doctor who was the victim of an "elitist, racist ... (more)

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/health-and-fitness/health-navigator/8-health-stories-to-know-today-caffeinated-food-anyone/article11629619/?cmpid=rss1&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+TheGlobeAndMail-Front+%28The+Globe+and+Mail+-+Latest+News%29

Poll: Four in 10 Americans don't know 'Obamacare' is still law

A new poll shows a large number of people are confused about the status of President Obama's health care law, with four in 10 Americans unaware that the health overhaul "is still the law of the land." The Kaiser Family Foundation's tracking poll for April also found that 12 percent of Americans thought Congress repealed the Affordable Care Act, 7 ... (more)

http://www.washingtontimes.com/blog/inside-politics/2013/apr/30/poll-4-10-americans-dont-know-obamacare-still-law/

17 arrested during protest by NAACP of GOP initiatives

A protest of Republican policies in the North Carolina General Assembly ended with the arrests of 17 people on Monday.

http://www.robesonian.com/view/full_story/22415002/article-17-arrested-during-protest-by-NAACP-of-GOP-initiatives?

Topera's FDA-Cleared RhythmViewTM Workstation Featured in 21...

Topera, Inc. today announced that its FDA-cleared RhythmView 3D mapping workstation will be discussed in 21 scientific presentations at the 34th Annual Scientific Sessions of the Heart Rhythm Society , May 8-11 in Denver, CO.

http://www.businesswire.com/portal/site/topix/index.jsp?ndmViewId=news_view&newsId=20130430006104&newsLang=en&ndmConfigId=1000639&vnsId=41

Tallahassee today: Negron pessimistic health care deal reachable by session's end

The Senate will likely pass a plan Tuesday by Negron, R-Stuart, to care for 1 million more Floridians with money under the federal health care law.

http://www.tcpalm.com/news/2013/apr/30/no-headline---xgr_daily/?partner=RSS

Infinata's BioPharm Insight releases its Catalyst Monitor for May 2013

BioPharm Insight's monthly Catalyst Monitor analyzes the most material events in the sector during the upcoming month.

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2013/4/prweb10677286.htm

Obama administration simplifies health care form

The first draft was as mind-numbing and complex as tax forms. Now the Obama administration is unveiling a simplified application for health insurance benefits under the federal health care overhaul.

http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20130430/business/704309894/

Ballantyne Brands Joins The We CardA Manufacturers Advisory Council

Ballantyne Brands, LLC is pleased to announce its membership in the Manufacturers Advisory Council of The We Card A Program, Inc.

http://www.businesswire.com/portal/site/topix/index.jsp?ndmViewId=news_view&newsId=20130430006097&newsLang=en&ndmConfigId=1000639&vnsId=41

Two hospital workers fired over 'dumping' of Nevada psychiatric patients

Nevada state officials said Monday that two employees at Rawson-Neal Psychiatric Hospital in Las Vegas have been fired and another three will be disciplined as a result of an internal investigation into the hospital's practice of busing mentally ill patients to other states.

http://www.sacbee.com/2013/04/30/5381856/two-hospital-workers-fired-over.html#mi_rss=Capitol%20and%20California

How to Control (or at least minimize) Your Health Care Costs

Rising health care costs are a concern for finance executives, but they can't forget the strategic impact their decisions have on their companies.

http://businessfinancemag.com/hr/how-control-or-least-minimize-your-health-care-costs

Pre-Publication Trial Results Demonstrate Safety and Effectiveness of ...

Pre-publication results from a national clinical trial show that prostate cancer treatment with CyberKnife A robotic radiosurgery demonstrated excellent preservation of sexual health and resulted in no significant side effects or complications.

http://www.businesswire.com/portal/site/topix/index.jsp?ndmViewId=news_view&newsId=20130430005072&newsLang=en&ndmConfigId=1000639&vnsId=41

5 things to watch at the Florida Legislature on Tuesday

The Senate Tuesday will take up its plan to expand Medicaid, which differs vastly from the House approach.

http://www.bradenton.com/2013/04/30/4505364/5-things-to-watch-at-the-florida.html#storylink=rss

Should Aveo Run Second Study of Kidney Cancer Drug, FDA Asks

An FDA advisory panel will be reviewing tivozanib on Thursday. Frankly, I'm surprised at the ferocity of selling in Aveo this morning.

http://www.thestreet.com/story/11909243/1/should-aveo-run-second-study-of-kidney-cancer-drug-fda-asks.html

Your Health: New Breakthrough Treatment for those with HER2-Positive Breast Cancer

HER2-Positive Breast Cancer affects 25% of women with the disease. It's described as agressive and often times people are given a poor prognosis, but there's a new treatment for it that has been approved by the FDA and it's helping people with that type of disease live longer.

http://www.wsaw.com/home/headlines/Your-Health--New-Breakthrough-Treatment-for-those-with-HER2-Positive-Breast-Cancer-205256061.html

Lawmakers pass Medicaid ball back to Pence

After a four-month debate, the Legislature ended pretty much where it started on a potential expansion of Medicaid: Lawmakers are letting Gov. Mike Pence go one-on-one with President Obama to see what kind of deal he can strike.

http://www.ibj.com/lawmakers-pass-medicaid-ball-back-to-pence/PARAMS/article/41053

Lies about immigration reform, Part 1

WASHINGTON , April 29, 2013 - The Gang of Eight's 844-page immigration reform bill is promising to be the great bipartisan solution to all of America's immigration woes by creating solutions on issues ranging from national security, legalization of illegal aliens, and economic recovery.

http://communities.washingtontimes.com/neighborhood/not-fit-print/2013/apr/29/five-lies-about-immigration-reform-part-1/

Draft Bill to Make Clear Oversight Responsibilities for Pharmaceutical Compounding

Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee U.S. Senator Tom Harkin and Ranking Member Lamar Alexander , with Senators Al Franken and Pat Roberts and other members of the HELP Committee, on Friday, released draft legislation that would improve the safety of compounded human and animal drugs by making clear the compounding ... (more)

http://www.infectioncontroltoday.com/news/2013/04/draft-bill-to-make-clear-oversight-responsibilities-for-pharmaceutical-compounding.aspx

Neuralstem ALS Trial Data Presented At The American Association Of...

Neuralstem, Inc. announced that final data on the intraspinal delivery method employed in its NSI-566 Phase I trial to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis was presented today at the American Association of Neurological Surgeons Annual Meeting.

http://www.freshnews.com/news/790978/neuralstem-als-trial-data-presented-at-the-american-association-of-neurological-surgeon

Feds seeking ex-owner of medical supply company

Federal authorities are searching for the former owner of Jet Medical Supplies in Louisville, after a grand jury charged him with defrauding Medicare.

http://www.fox19.com/story/22105584/feds-seeking-ex-owner-of-medical-supply-company

Rep. Steve Holland, D-Plantersville.

State Rep. Steve Holland has been saying for years that someone should write about his family's political dynasty in northeast Mississippi.

http://djournal.com/view/full_story/22402864/article--Analysis--Holland-family-has-deep-political-roots-?instance=secondary_stories_left_column

Rules for Health 'Navigators' Head to Ohio Governor

A bill to require training and certification for a new group of professionals who will be available to guide consumers through the new health insurance market is on its way to Ohio Gov.

http://www.insurancejournal.com/news/midwest/2013/04/29/290088.htm

Feds Cite Dinners At Hooters In Another Novartis Kickback Lawsuit

Coming off the heels of a kickback lawsuit filed last Tuesday against the pharmaceutical company Novartis, the US Justice Department filed a lawsuit on Friday alleging misconduct in the way it gave kickbacks to doctors for prescribing their drugs.

http://www.medicaldaily.com/articles/14973/20130429/feds-dinners-hooters-another-novartis-kickback-justice.htm

The death of corporate reputation - Professor Jonathan Macey

Jonathan R. Macey is Sam Harris Professor of Corporate Law, Corporate Finance, and Securities Law at Yale University and Professor in the Yale School of Management.

http://www.examiner.com/article/the-death-of-corporate-reputation-professor-jonathan-macey-part-two?cid=rss

Media Cheers ObamaCare at White House Correspondents Dinner

During his opening remarks, White House Correspondents' Association President and Fox News' Ed Henry brought up President Obama's signature healthcare law to... wild applause from an audience comprised of prominent media figures.

http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/3013683/posts

The Minimum Wage: More Baloney

Politicians are notorious for making recommendations and promises that really don't make economic sense but appeal to the "masses" . Among the favorites is an increase in the minimum wage, purported to help "poor" people have a better life and to stimulate the economy, because "poor" people spend all their money.

http://www.forbes.com/sites/williamdunkelberg/2013/04/29/131/

Panic: Democrats Fear Another Obamacare Backlash

Within months of Democrats ramming through Obamacare without a single Republican vote, the American people responded, pummeling the president's party at the polls.

http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/3013666/posts

PROMISES, PROMISES: Social Security pledge at risk

In this April 12, 2013, file photo, House Budget Committee Chairman Rep. Paul Ryan, R-Wis., a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, holds a copy of President Barack Obama's fiscal 2014 budget proposal book during a House Ways and Means Committee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington.

http://www.crescent-news.com/latest%20headlines/2013/04/29/promises-promises-social-security-pledge-at-risk

Feds seeking ex-owner of medical supply company

Federal authorities are searching for the former owner of Jet Medical Supplies in Louisville, after a grand jury charged him with defrauding Medicare.

http://www.wchstv.com/newsroom/ky/201304291344_f9c8a89.shtml

Expanding Medicaid could be expensive

AS Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin considers adding 150,000 to the Medicaid program under Obama-care, the governor should heed the words of Sen.

http://www.dailymail.com/Opinion/Editorials/201304290059

Making soda (not quite) a health food

The soft-drink industry has been taking it on the chin in the last couple of years-from getting tossed out of schools to New York City's effort to limit the size of sodas sold at restaurants and theaters to 16 ounces.

http://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/healthcare/296687-making-soda-not-quite-a-health-food

Congress: Band-Aid approach

"First, meat inspectors got a reprieve from the sequester," Roll Call writes. "Then air-traffic controllers at the Federal Aviation Administration .

http://firstread.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/04/29/17969756-congress-band-aid-approach

This Is Nuts: 'I Love Jamie Dimon'

Billionaire financier and Home Depot founder Ken Langone guest-hosted Bloomberg TV's 'Market Makers' Friday and discussed the U.S. economy, the Obama administration, generational theft, along with Wall Street banks and director pay.

http://hereisthecity.com/2013/04/29/langone-on-bloomberg-tv-i-love-jamie-dimon/

Meadows urges appeal of emergency contraception court decision

Meadows Authors Letter to POTUS Requesting an Appeal on Emergency Contraception Decision Washington, D.C. - In response to the Eastern District of New York's decision to permit children under the age of 17 to purchase emergency contraception without a prescription, Representative Mark Meadows and 50 fellow Members of Congress sent a letter to the ... (more)

http://www.mountainx.com/article/49773/Meadows-urges-appeal-of-emergency-contraception-court-decision

Sequester Closes Cancer Clinic Doors, Congress Does Nothing

Affluent business flyers inconvenienced by delays = national emergency that Congress immediately fixes.

http://blog.ourfuture.org/20130429/sequester-closes-cancer-clinics-doors-congress-does-nothing?#038;#038;

Non-Profit And Churches Receive A New Feature For Payroll Tax Solutions With EzPaycheck Software

EzPaycheck payroll tax solution from Halfpricesoft.com has improved on the already inexpensive and flexible software.

http://www.i-newswire.com/non-profit-and-churches-receive/221001

Targacept finishes recruiting for Alzheimer's trial

Targacept has recruited the patients it needs for a Phase 2b clinical study of a drug it hopes will become a treatment for Alzheimer's disease.

http://www.bizjournals.com/triad/blog/2013/04/targacept-finishes-recruiting-for.html?ana=RSS&s=article_search&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+vertical_45+%28Semiconductor+Industry+News%29

Wisconsin GOP senator seeks delay in Medicaid shift

A Republican state senator says the state should slow down Gov. Scott Walker's plans to shift thousands of patients from state coverage into the federal health care program, citing concerns that the program won't be up and running as scheduled by the beginning of 2014.

http://www.twincities.com/wisconsin/ci_23130835/wisconsin-gop-senator-seeks-delay-medicaid-shift?source=rss

The Price of Healthcare Success: Losing Your Funding

This came out over the weekend, but Ezra Klein has an interesting long piece up about the next frontier in health management.

http://www.motherjones.com/kevin-drum/2013/04/price-healthcare-success-losing-your-funding

The Optimist's Case For Obamacare Implementation

Are you worried by all the baleful predictions being made by critics of the Affordable Care Act about how its implementation will proceed? It's hard not to worry.

http://www.washingtonmonthly.com/political-animal-a/2013_04/the_optimists_case_for_obamaca044424.php?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+washingtonmonthly%2Frss+%28Political+Animal+at+Washington+Monthly%29

Aging undocumented immigrants: A burden or a boon?

As the debate over immigration reform tugs predictably back in Washington, an undercurrent of ageism and disability bias has been flowing beneath more obvious racial and class implications.

http://www.southernstudies.org/2013/04/aging-undocumented-immigrants-a-burden-or-a-boon.html

Tallahassee today: Medicaid expansion alternative to be discussed

Sen. Joe Negron 's plan to speed up the death row appeals process could clear the Senate on Friday and head to the governor.

http://www.tcpalm.com/news/2013/apr/29/tallahassee-today-medicaid-expansion-alternative/?partner=RSS

The Fight for GMO-Free Food

Will New York State be the first state in the nation to require the labeling of food containing what has become known as GMO-genetically modified organisms? More than 60 countries have enacted laws banning the use of GMO in producing food or requiring the labeling of food with ingredients that have utilized genetic modification or genetic ... (more)

http://www.counterpunch.org/2013/04/29/the-fight-for-gmo-free-food/?#038;#038;

Uncle Sam Busts Novartis AG Again

Staying up-to-date has never been simpler. Sign up for the free GenePool newsletter today! EAST HANOVER, N.J. /PRNewswire/ -- Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation disputes the allegations made by the US Attorney's Office for the Southern District of "We disagree with the way the government is characterizing our conduct in both of these matters and ... (more)

http://www.biospace.com/news_story.aspx?StoryID=294655&full=1

Providers Projecting Significant Inpatient to Outpatient Admission...

"We need to know everything we can about a patient's care - what has gone on before and what's coming up" Only 35 percent of 530 survey respondents - primarily hospital C-suite, and materials and practice area managers - are projecting an increase in inpatient volume in 2013 compared to 2012, a 30 percent decrease from predictions a year ago.

http://eon.businesswire.com/news/eon/20130429005892/en/Providers-Projecting-Significant-Inpatient-Outpatient-Admission-Shift

Sorin Group Receives Conditional FDA Approval to Conduct IDE Clinical ...

Sorin Group Receives Conditional FDA Approval to Conduct IDE Clinical Trial for Perceval S Sutureless Aortic Valve in the United States Primary objective of the prospective, non randomized trial is to demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of the PERCEVAL S sutureless valve in support of receiving FDA PMA clearance )--Sorin Group, , a global ... (more)

http://eon.businesswire.com/news/eon/20130429005429/en/Sorin-Group-Receives-Conditional-FDA-Approval-Conduct

Federal Spending Is Very Popular. Episode 9: The FAA Sequester

Last August and September, I did a series of eight posts about how, contrary to Tea Party and John Boehner assertions, federal spending was actually very popular.

http://blog.ourfuture.org/20130429/federal-spending-is-very-popular-episode-9-the-faa-sequester?#038;#038;

Levett Rockwood's Alan Nevas to Chair Newtown Fund Distribution Committee

Alan H. Nevas, a retired federal judge and special counsel to Westport law firm Levett Rockwood P.C., has been selected to chair the committee that will allocate $7.7 million in funds to the 40 families most severely impacted by the Sandy Hook School tragedy.

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2013/4/prweb10677623.htm

Navigating the leave-management maze

When an employee requires a period of leave because of a medical issue or disability, the situation is not always straightforward, and the best way to manage it is not always clear.

http://www.homechannelnews.com/article/navigating-leave-management-maze

AGRIBUSINESS: GMO Labeling Bills Introduced

Legislation to require the Food and Drug Administration to clearly label all genetically engineered foods has been introduced in the U.S. House and Senate.

http://whotv.com/2013/04/29/agribusiness-gmo-labeling-bills-introduced/

"Un-Civil War"

Associated Press Web Producer: Jeff Morris Reported: Apr. 29, 2013 9:12 AM EDT Updated: Apr.

http://www.wchstv.com/newsroom/eyewitness/130429_15674.shtml?wap=0

WV Turnpike Status

Charleston , Kanawha County , West Virginia A consultant said the West Virginia Turnpike is in much better shape than it was four years ago when toll increases went into effect.

http://www.wchstv.com/newsroom/eyewitness/130429_15675.shtml?wap=0

Medicare signup confuses: Part 1

More than 11,000 baby boomers become eligible for Medicare every single day. The momentous 65th birth anniversary opens up a raft of health care decisions than have to be made by new patients during the special open enrollment period.

http://www.examiner.com/article/medicare-signup-confuses-part-1

Inslee hopes for greater things in extra session

The special session of the Legislature that Jay Inslee has called for May 13 gives the new governor a second chance to leave his mark, something he was mostly unable to do in the 105-day regular session that ended Sunday.

http://www.bellinghamherald.com/2013/04/29/2987020/inslee-hopes-for-greater-things.html

Leading Health Insurers to Provide Health Plans on New Towers Watson...

Towers Watson , a global professional services company, announced the first group of health insurers to agree to offer health plans on Towers Watson's new private exchange for active employees: "Towers Watson is committed to partnering with leading national health insurers to offer best-in-class plans that help employers manage health care costs ... (more)

http://www.businesswire.com/news/topix/20130429005622/en

Hagens Berman Notifies Investors of June 25, 2013, Lead Plaintiff...

Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP, a national investor-rights law firm, today notified investors of a pending June 25, 2013, deadline to file for lead plaintiff in a securities class-action lawsuit brought again Intuitive Surgical, Inc.

http://www.businesswire.com/news/topix/20130429005583/en

Opsona Raises a 33 million

Opsona Therapeutics raised a 33 million in an oversubscribed Series C financing led by BB Biotech Ventures and Novartis Venture Fund .

http://www.pehub.com/198839/opsona-raises-e33-million/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+pehub%2Fnews%2Fall+%28PEHub+News%29

Sorin Group Receives Conditional FDA Approval to Conduct IDE Clinical ...

Sorin Group, , a global medical device company and a leader in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, announced today it has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval of its Investigational Device Exemption application and clinical trial protocol to begin evaluating its PERCEVAL S sutureless aortic tissue valve.

http://www.businesswire.com/news/topix/20130429005428/en

Congress caught red-handed

Congress got caught this week trying to "Slick Willy" out of Obamacare. If this program is so great, why isn't the president all about it? Why isn't his family enrolling in the program? Why was it all hush-hush? I read somewhere they wanted to send a message to Obama that the plan wasn't working out so well.

http://www.delphosherald.com/index.php?id=11611:congress-caught-red-handed&option=com_content&catid=27:new-to-joomla&Itemid=138

WSJ Pushes Myth That Congress Is Trying To Exempt Itself From Health Care Law

A Wall Street Journal editorial advanced the myth that Congress is trying to exempt itself from President Obama's health care law.

http://mediamatters.org/blog/2013/04/29/wsj-pushes-myth-that-congress-is-trying-to-exem/193816

RUN Powered by ADP Payroll Platform Exceeds 200,000 Small Business Client Mark

Momentum Continues as Small Businesses Turn to a Single Payroll and HR Solution That Helps Reduce Risk, Improve Compliance, and Strengthen Cash Flow ROSELAND, N.J., - ADP , a leader in human resource and payroll outsourcing solutions, today announced that more than 200,000 small business owners are now using the company's innovative cloud-based ... (more)

http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=173853

More than 16K addicts to be eligible for insurance

More than 16,000 Utah residents with drug and alcohol addictions will become newly eligible for insurance next year under the health care overhaul, but it's unclear whether state substance abuse facilities will be able to handle any increase in demand.

http://www.ksl.com/?sid=24980013&nid=148&s_cid=rss-extlink

STIREWALT: Missed deadline ahead for ObamaCare

Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius in House testimony last week on the still-vacant 15-member Independent Payment Advisory Board, which is supposed to begin work on Tuesday.

http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2013/04/29/another-missed-deadline-ahead-for-obamacare/

Gilead fails FDA approval for two HIV drugs in 4-in-1 pill Stribild

Gilead Sciences failed to win U.S. regulatory approval to sell as separate products two HIV medicines that are part of its four-in-one pill Stribild.

http://www.mercurynews.com/business/ci_23130395/gilead-fails-fda-approval-two-hiv-drugs-4?source=rss

Adults without children gain most from proposed Medicaid expansion

TOLEDO: The debate over whether Ohio should make health care coverage available to more low-income residents has been framed largely by numbers and dollar signs.

http://www.ohio.com/news/break-news/adults-without-children-gain-most-from-proposed-medicaid-expansion-1.393412

Legislative session nears end

With a week left in the legislative session and the outlook still uncertain for Gov.

http://yoursun.net/sunnews/bartow/5163393-458/sunnewspaperswith1weekleftfateofscottsagenda.html.csp

Companies that dump workers into Medi-Cal could face fines

Large companies that try to avoid penalties under the federal health care overhaul by reducing the hours of workers and funneling them into a government insurance program would be fined under a proposed California law.

http://www.vcstar.com/news/2013/apr/28/companies-that-dump-workers-into-medi-cal-could/?partner=RSS

Gary Stein: Florida's Lawmakers Test the Null Hypothesis on Medicaid Expansion

In science and statistical analysis it is called "Testing the Null Hypothesis." As described in the 1930s by a statistician named Ronald Fischer, during an experiment, when looking at observed data after an event or testing the use of some treatment on a patient, the null hypothesis is the theory the change in data is unrelated to the event, or ... (more)

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/gary-stein/floridas-lawmakers-test-t_b_3172266.html

HHS Spending Millions in Taxpayer Money to Run Obamacare PR Campaign

... axpayer dollars on an advertising campaign to tell Americans what's 'good for them' in the flawed and harmful healthcare law."

http://au.ibtimes.com/articles/462189/20130429/hhs-spending-millions-taxpayer-money-run-obamacare.htm

Readers Write (April 29): Abortion, the Legislature, St. Croix Crossing, colonoscopy

The Minnesota Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice heartily agrees with writers Jennifer A. Marshall and Sarah Torre that the horrific crimes of Kermit Gosnell are abhorrent and difficult to fathom.

http://www.startribune.com/opinion/letters/204939871.html

More than just numbers in Ohio's Medicaid debate

The debate over whether Ohio should make health care coverage available to more low-income residents has been framed largely by numbers and dollar signs.

http://www.portclintonnewsherald.com/needlogin?type=login&redirecturl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.portclintonnewsherald.com%2Fapps%2Fpbcs.dll%2Farticle%3FAID%3D2013304280009%26nclick_check%3D1

Credo: Ed Blews has faith in Christian colleges

The Council for Christian Colleges & Universities inaugurated its new president, Ed Blews, in January.

http://washingtonexaminer.com/credo-ed-blews-has-faith-in-christian-colleges/article/2528248?custom_click=rss

Senate bill targets large compounding pharmacies

Large specialty pharmacies like the one that triggered a deadly meningitis outbreak last year would be subject to federal safety inspections and manufacturing standards under a new Senate proposal introduced Friday.

http://www.kboi2.com/news/health/Senate-bill-targets-large-compounding-pharmacies-205157511.html

Judges sue Social Security over 'quotas' on disability decisions

Administrative law judges who evaluate disability claims for the Social Security Administration want a federal court to ease a workload that they say makes errors more likely - the latest in a series of challenges confronting the Woodlawn-based agency.

http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/maryland/bs-md-social-security-leadership-20130428,0,5576383.story

More than just numbers in Ohio's Medicaid debate

The debate over whether Ohio should make health care coverage available to more low-income residents has been framed largely by numbers and dollar signs.

http://www.portclintonnewsherald.com/viewart/20130428/NEWS01/304280009/More-than-just-numbers-Ohio-s-Medicaid-debate

Farmworkers Dig Into the New 'Blue Card' Plan

A child rallies in support of the Coalition of Immokalee Workers in Tampa, Fla., highlighting undocumented farm workers' critical role in food production.

http://my.firedoglake.com/meeshellchen/2013/04/28/farmworkers-dig-into-the-new-blue-card-plan/

2013 Arkansas Legislative Session Wasn't for the Base

The left suffered its biggest defeat in decades on abortion rights as Arkansas lawmakers enacted some of the nation's strictest bans, but also saw the passage of expanded health care for thousands of low-income workers.

http://www.arkansasbusiness.com/article/92226/2013-arkansas-legislative-session-wasnt-for-the-base-ap-analysis

School Security Forum, part 2

Editor's Note: This is the last part of the two-part series on a School Security Forum, hosted by the Silver City-Grant County TEA Party Patriots on April 23.

http://www.grantcountybeat.com/index.php/news/news-articles/10257-school-security-forum-part-2

Exempting Congress From ObamaCare

The Politico website broke the story Thursday morning that Congressional leaders were in hush-hush talks to exempt themselves and their staff from the wonders of ObamaCare.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887323335404578445042307824784.html?mod=rss_opinion_main

More than just numbers in Ohio's Medicaid debate

The debate about whether Ohio should make health care coverage available to more low-income residents largely has been framed by numbers and dollar signs.

http://www.lancastereaglegazette.com/needlogin?type=login&redirecturl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lancastereaglegazette.com%2Fapps%2Fpbcs.dll%2Farticle%3FAID%3D2013304280007%26nclick_check%3D1

State's hospitals, key Republican concerned federal insurance pools may be delayed

The state's hospitals - and a key Republican senator - say the state should consider slowing down Gov.

http://www.jsonline.com/news/statepolitics/states-hospitals-key-republican-concerned-federal-insurance-pools-may-be-delayed-6i9njkg-205151131.html

Kathleen Sebelius earned a huge kickback

If and when she'll collect it isn't clear, but that hardly matters except on the question of whether or not she could be prosecuted.

http://www.dailykos.com/story/2013/04/28/1205456/-Kathleen-Sebelius-earned-a-huge-kickback

Civil War Park Opens in Stafford County

The Free Lance-Star reports that the park will include re-enactors, cannon firing demonstrations, period musicians and a field hospital.

http://www.newsplex.com/home/headlines/Civil-War-Park-Opens-in-Stafford-County-205147111.html

New Construction at Va. Tech Tops $1B since 1999

The use of new technology in education requires new buildings. Steger says a lack of enough electrical outlets in classrooms is one of Virginia Tech's biggest problems.

http://www.newsplex.com/home/headlines/New-Construction-at-Va-Tech-Tops-1B-since-1999-205146841.html

Food Costs Spiked at Gov's Mansion in FY 2012

An Associated Press review of state records shows grocery costs at Virginia's Executive Mansion hit the highest levels in four years in late 2011 and early 2012.

http://www.newsplex.com/home/headlines/Food-Costs-Spiked-at-Govs-Mansion-in-FY-2012-205147151.html

Venaxis Poised For Run-Up Into Pivotal Study Results

Venaxis is a diagnostic company focused on the development and commercialization of a blood-based appendicitis test designed for use in children and young adults to identify patients presenting to an emergency room at low risk for acute appendicitis to avoid more extensive testing .

http://seekingalpha.com/article/1379961-venaxis-poised-for-run-up-into-pivotal-study-results?source=feed

Re: Opinion Line

President Bush's approval rating is at 47 percent, the same as President Obama's now.

http://www.kansas.com/2013/04/28/2779344/opinion-line-april-28.html#comment-878805145

Analysis: Tax debate done, so other battles emerge

Tax discussions may be largely dead for the legislative session, but lawmakers have found a list of other issues over which to bicker for the next six weeks.

http://www.sfgate.com/news/article/Analysis-Tax-debate-done-so-other-battles-emerge-4470545.php

High-Capacity Gun Ban In LA Advances

A Los Angeles City Council committee Friday recommended a proposal to ban ownership of gun magazine clips that take more than 10 bullets.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/04/28/high-capacity-gun-ban-la_n_3170839.html

Don't Understand Health Insurance Exchanges? You're Not Alone

Health officials and state governments scramble to educate the public about the Affordable Care Act's health insurance exchanges before they go live this fall.

http://www.medicaldaily.com/articles/14961/20130428/dont-understand-health-insurance-exchanges-youre-alone.htm

Obama Vows Support for Planned Parenthood

President Obama became the first sitting President to address Planned Parenthood this week, speaking to roughly a thousand supporters at the organization's national conference in Washington, D.C. The President lauded the organization's efforts in helping pass Obamacare, particularly the preventative services mandate that is currently trampling on ... (more)

http://blog.heritage.org/2013/04/28/obama-vows-support-for-planned-parenthood/

Second Thoughts on Health Exchanges and Hill Staffers

The other day I used a Politico story about Congressional staffers and health benefits to make some points about health reform.

http://blog.ourfuture.org/20130428/second-thoughts-on-health-exchanges-and-hill-staffers?#038;#038;

Tackling Cancer: Thyroid Cancer's Biggest Current and Upcoming Players

As I noted eight weeks ago, cancer statistics are both staggering and disappointing.

http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2013/04/28/tackling-cancer-thyroid-cancers-biggest-current-up.aspx

New Rewards And Penalties For Hospitals Proposed By Medicare

Hospitals that take part in CMS' Inpatient Quality Reporting Program will receive 0.8% in extra payments, while those not successfully participating would have payments reduced by 2%, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services proposed on Friday to the USA's 3,400 acute care hospitals.

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/259773.php

Gov. Scott May Apply Pressure In Last Week Of Session

With a week left in the legislative session Governor Rick Scott might start twisting some political arms until some action is taken on his top priorities.

http://miami.cbslocal.com/2013/04/28/gov-scott-may-apply-pressure-in-last-week-of-session/

More than just numbers in Ohio's Medicaid debate

... become a productive citizen," she said. Expanding Medicaid is a central element of President Barack Obama's healthcare law, but the idea is being met with resistance in the Ohio legislature. The state estimates that 366,000 Ohioans would be eligible ...

http://www.modernhealthcare.com/article/20130428/INFO/304289996

Suits challenge N.C. medical examiners’ work

N.C. medical examiners are supposed to investigate suspicious and violent deaths, but the state’s former chief medical examiner for years was aware of careless work that raised the risk of faulty death rulings.

http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2013/04/28/4008087/suits-challengenc-medicalexaminers.html#storylink=rss

More Than Just Numbers In Ohio's Medicaid Debate

The debate over whether Ohio should make health care coverage available to more low-income residents has been framed largely by numbers and dollar signs.

http://www.10tv.com/content/stories/2013/04/28/AP-More-than-just-numbers-in-Ohioxs-Medicaid-debate.html

Alaska lawmakers push back on 'federal overreach'

Pushing back against the U.S. government's perceived encroachment on Alaska's authority has long been popular in this state, known for its libertarian bent and comprised largely of federal land.

http://www.adn.com/2013/04/27/2881526/alaska-lawmakers-push-back-on.html#storylink=rss

Federal officials cite Nevada mental hospital for deficiencies

The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services on Thursday sent a letter to Nevada health officials telling them that, due to "serious deficiencies," the state's primary psychiatric hospital "may be subject to termination of its Medicare provider agreement," according to a copy of the letter obtained by The Bee.

http://www.sacbee.com/2013/04/26/5373158/federal-officials-cite-nevada.html#mi_rss=Health%20and%20Medicine

FAA Hopes To Establish Normal Flight Operations By End Of Day

Today could be a much better day for air travelers who have endured a week of flight delays.

http://www.wptf.com/Article.asp?id=2646207&spid=35714

Rejecting Medicaid could hurt some states

Rejecting the Medicaid expansion in the federal health-care law could have unexpected consequences for states where Republican lawmakers remain opposed to what they scorn as Obamacare.

http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/national_world/2013/04/28/rejecting-medicaid-could-hurt-some-states.html

Even supporters not sure insurance exchanges work

The White House sums up the central idea behind the health-care exchanges in the new federal health law with a simple motto: "more choices, greater competition." But even some stalwart supporters of the Affordable Care Act worry that in many states, people won't have a lot of health-insurance choices when the exchanges launch in October.

http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/national_world/2013/04/28/even-supporters-not-sure-insurance-exchanges-work.html

More than just numbers in Ohio's Medicaid debate

A move to expand Medicaid in Ohio and give more low-income residents access to health care is on shaky ground.

http://www.wchstv.com/newsroom/oh/201304281446_0f09bdb.shtml

Air traffic should be back up to speed today

The Federal Aviation Administration said that the U.S. air traffic system will resume normal operations by Sunday evening after lawmakers rushed a bill through Congress allowing the agency to withdraw furloughs of air traffic controllers and other workers.

http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20130428/NEWS02/704289880/1018

Medicare Part D Qui Tam Lawsuit on Track for Discovery

As a qui tam suit alleging fraud against one of the biggest private contractors for the multibillion-dollar Medicare Part D prescription-drug program heads toward discovery, a federal judge has defined the parameters for the discovery process.

http://www.law.com/jsp/pa/PubArticlePA.jsp?hubtype=MAIN_PAGE&id=1202597795807

Airports returning to normal, FAA says

The Federal Aviation Administration said that the U.S. air traffic system will resume normal operations by thisevening after lawmakers rushed a bill through Congress allowing the agency to withdraw furloughs of air traffic controllers and other workers.

http://timesleader.com/news/news/469347/Airports-returning-to-normal-FAA-says&source=RSS

Farmworkers Dig Into the New - Blue Card' Plan

Last week, immigrants' rights groups finally got the papers they've been waiting for, an 844-page whopper of a bill that attempts to "fix" the immigration system by promising a little bit to everyone: businesses get workers, workers get jobs and millions of undocumented people get an opportunity to gain citizenship.

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2013/04/28-3

More than just numbers in Ohio's Medicaid debate

A move to expand Medicaid in Ohio and give more low-income residents access to health care is on shaky ground.

http://washingtonexaminer.com/more-than-just-numbers-in-ohios-medicaid-debate/article/feed/2093680?custom_click=rss

GDP Grew 2.5 Percent in the First Quarter

After dreadfully low growth in the last quarter of 2012-just 0.4 percent- gross domestic product returned to a healthier rate of growth of 2.5 percent in the first three months of 2013.

http://blog.heritage.org/2013/04/28/gdp-grew-2-5-percent-in-the-first-quarter/

More than just numbers in Ohio's Medicaid debate

A move to expand Medicaid in Ohio and give more low-income residents access to health care is on shaky ground.

http://www.fox19.com/story/22099816/more-than-just-numbers-in-ohios-medicaid-debate

More than just numbers ina

The debate over whether Ohio should make health care coverage available to more low-income residents has been framed largely by numbers and dollar signs.

http://www.wthitv.com/dpp/onpolitix/health_care/More-than-just-numbers-in-Ohios-Medicaid-debate_48111873

FAA: Air traffic system soon at full operation

The Federal Aviation Administration said that the U.S. air traffic system will resume normal operations by Sunday evening after lawmakers rushed a bill through Congress allowing the agency to withdraw furloughs of air traffic controllers and other workers.

http://dailyjournal.net/view/story/34c13524a39d44e1aaf9059e696d14d0/US--FAA-Furloughs/

With 1 week left, fate of Scott's agenda uncertain

With a week left in the legislative session and the outlook still uncertain for Gov.

http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/article/With-1-week-left-fate-of-Scott-s-agenda-uncertain-4470155.php

Dome: Elaine Marshall says GOP's branding is embarrassment

While Gov. Pat McCrory has talked about rebranding the state, the Republican legislature has already succeeded – and it's not good, said Democratic Secretary of State Elaine Marshall on Saturday.

http://www.newsobserver.com/2013/04/27/2854685/dome-elaine-marshall-says-gops.html#storylink=rss

FAA suspends furloughs, says air traffic system to resume normal operations by Sunday evening

The Federal Aviation Administration said that the U.S. air traffic system will resume normal operations by Sunday evening after lawmakers rushed a bill through Congress allowing the agency to withdraw furloughs of air traffic controllers and other workers.

http://www.brandonsun.com/business/breaking-news/faa-suspends-furloughs-says-air-traffic-system-to-resume-normal-operations-by-sunday-evening-205013711.html?

FAA: Air traffic system soon at full operation

The announcement comes a day after Congress passed legislation to allow the agency to withdraw the furloughs - fallout from the $85 billion in automatic-across-the-board spending cuts this spring.

http://ap.brainerddispatch.com/pstories/business/20130427/1129085521.shtml

Governor Angry Over Democrats' Hospital Debt Stand

Gov. Paul LePage is blasting legislative Democrats' latest stand on repaying a $484 million debt to Maine's hospitals, questioning whether they really want to pay the hospitals.

http://www.wabi.tv/news/39623/governor-angry-over-democrats-hospital-debt-stand?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+wabi%2Fnews+%28WABI+-+News%29

OH casinos divided on use of electronic cigarettes

Patrons wanting to use electronic cigarettes as an alternative to smoking tobacco, which is prohibited in most public places by state law, are out of luck at three casinos in Ohio.

http://www.newstalkradiowhio.com/news/ap/gaming/oh-casinos-divided-on-use-of-electronic-cigarettes/nXZXz/

Suit challenges NC medical examiner's work

N.C. medical examiners are supposed to investigate suspicious and violent deaths, but the state's former chief medical examiner for years was aware of careless work that raised the risk of faulty death rulings.

http://www.newsobserver.com/2013/04/27/2854665/suits-challengenc-medicalexaminers.html#storylink=rss

Va. Audit Says Half of Court Fines, Fees Go Unpaid

A state audit says nearly half of the court fines and fees levied against traffic ticket and criminal offenders go uncollected, costing Virginia about $171 million each year.

http://www.newsplex.com/home/headlines/Va-Audit-Says-Half-of-Court-Fines-Fees-Go-Unpaid-205017561.html

Ex-sailor Sentenced in 1975 Va. Murder

Thirty-two-year-old Lionel Wayne Baldwin was a part-time cab driver when he was stabbed in the head, chest, neck and arms in his cab.

http://www.newsplex.com/home/headlines/Ex-sailor-Sentenced-in-1975-Va-Murder-205017461.html

Why People Hate Obamacare

Keep track of the stocks that matter to you. Help yourself with the Fool's FREE and easy new watchlist service today.

http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2013/04/27/why-people-hate-obamacare.aspx

FAA: Air traffic system soon at full operation

The Federal Aviation Administration said that the U.S. air traffic system will resume normal operations by Sunday evening after lawmakers rushed a bill through Congress allowing the agency to withdraw furloughs of air traffic controllers and other workers.

http://www.wsbtv.com/ap/ap/top-news/faa-air-traffic-system-soon-at-full-operation/nXZWx/

Jindal administration confirms improper messages were sent to firm that won Medicaid contract

As secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, Bruce Greenstein communicated with Client Network Services Inc., where Greenstein once worked.

http://www.thetowntalk.com/viewart/20130427/NEWS01/130427006/Jindal-administration-confirms-improper-messages-were-sent-to-firm-that-won-Medicaid-contract

The new HIPAA regulations: Do you know the rules?

Even stronger controls have just been set out for HIPAA. They come in the final regulations for the Omnibus Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, or the HIPAA rule.

http://www.kevinmd.com/blog/2013/04/hipaa-regulations-rules.html

Regular air traffic returns on Sunday

The Federal Aviation Administration said it's suspended all employee furloughs and says air traffic facilities will begin returning to regular staffing levels over the next 24 hours.

http://www.toledoblade.com/Nation/2013/04/27/FAA-Air-traffic-system-soon-at-full-operation.html

FAA: Air traffic system soon ata

The Federal Aviation Administration said it's suspended all employee furloughs and says air traffic facilities will begin returning to regular staffing levels over the next 24 hours.

http://www.fox10tv.com/dpp/news/national/FAA-Air-traffic-system-soon-at-full-operation_28398902

Does Tallahassee dictate too much to cities, counties?

The Florida Legislature can't seem to make up its mind about what kind of government is best - small and local, or big and centralized.

http://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/stateroundup/does-tallahassee-dictate-too-much-to-cities-counties/2117813

House, Senate negotiators work out budget deal for health care, justice

House Appropriations Chairman Seth McKeel, R-Lakeland, and Senate Appropriations Chairman Joe Negron, R-Stuart, reached a deal to essentially finalize the spending for the health care and criminal justice portions of the budget.

http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2013/apr/27/florida-legislative-budget-negotiators-health-care/?partner=RSS

Air-traffic-control furloughs to be suspended soon, FAA says

The Federal Aviation Administration said it's suspended all employee furloughs and says air traffic facilities will begin returning to regular staffing levels over the next 24 hours.

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-250_162-57581752/air-traffic-control-furloughs-to-be-suspended-soon-faa-says/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+CBSNewsPCAnswer+%28PC+Answer%3A+CBSNews.com%29

FAA: Air traffic system soon at full operation

The announcement comes a day after Congress passed legislation to allow the agency to withdraw the furloughs - fallout from the $85 billion in automatic-across-the-board spending cuts this spring.

http://www.bellinghamherald.com/2013/04/27/2985451/faa-air-traffic-system-soon-at.html

Meningitis outbreak: U.S. Senate bill tightens regulation of compounding manufacturers

A U.S. Senate committee with oversight of drug production laws unveiled a bill Friday intended to prevent another fungal meningitis outbreak.

http://www.wbir.com/news/article/271941/2/Meningitis-outbreak-US-Senate-bill-tightens-regulation-of-compounding-manufacturers

FAA: Air traffic system soon at full operation

The Federal Aviation Administration said it's suspended all employee furloughs and says air traffic facilities will begin returning to regular staffing levels over the next 24 hours.

http://www.miamiherald.com/2013/04/27/3368096/faa-air-traffic-system-soon-at.html

Does Tallahassee dictate too much to cities, counties?

The Florida Legislature can't seem to make up its mind about what kind of government is best - small and local, or big and centralized.

http://www.miamiherald.com/2013/04/27/3368087/does-tallahassee-dictate-too-much.html

EDITORIAL: A New Broom Sweeps Clean: Morrisey Keeps Key Campaign Promise

In what can only be called another forgettable legislative session, an act by a member of the Executive Branch recently was noteworthy, even flabbergasting.

http://www.huntingtonnews.net/61297

State House, Senate Negotiators Inch Toward Final Budget

Top negotiators from the state's House and Senate have reached deals on a number of big tickets items in a $74 billion budget for the fiscal year that begins July 1st.

http://miami.cbslocal.com/2013/04/27/state-house-senate-negotiators-inching-toward-final-budget/

21 senators seeking abortion ban in Iowa Constitution

Omaha is among the final three to host the 2016 Swim Trials. San Antonio, and St.

http://www.omaha.com/article/20130427/NEWS/704279920/1685

EditorialsEditorial: Why won't lawmakers help these Floridians?

John Reddick of Pinellas County is among people who would benefit from the Florida Legislature accepting Medicaid expansion.

http://www.tampabay.com/opinion/editorials/editorial-why-wont-lawmakers-help-these-floridians/2117568

Ohio's Drug Deaths Hit High

Ohioans are dying from drug overdoses at record-high rates, the state Department of Health said Friday as it released 2011 figures that place the blame on prescription painkillers and also show a worsening heroin problem.

http://news-register.net/page/content.detail/id/584682/Ohio-s-Drug-Deaths-Hit-High.html

Hayes Slams Congress for Protecting Air Travelers Alone Among Sequester Victims

While thousands of low-income Americans are suffering under sequestration, our Congress somehow managed to rush through a fix for the FAA cuts that were delaying their their flights.

http://videocafe.crooksandliars.com/heather/hayes-slams-congress-protecting-air-travel

Congress votes to end Obama's airport furloughs

The article, Dreaded furlough-caused flight delays coming to an end , by Bart Jansen, USA TODAY, states , "The House cleared legislation Friday that allows the Federal Aviation Administration to shift $253 million from other accounts to end furloughs that began Sunday.

http://www.examiner.com/article/congress-votes-to-end-obama-s-airport-furloughs?cid=rss

The Trainwreck Called Obamacare

"I just see a huge trainwreck coming down." That's not a quote from one of our old editorials or from any of the other critics of what has become known as Obamacare.

http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/3013134/posts

Jindal administration confirms improper messages to firm that won Medicaid contract

As secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, Bruce Greenstein communicated with Client Network Services Inc., where Greenstein once worked.

http://www.thetowntalk.com/viewart/20130427/NEWS01/130427006/Jindal-administration-confirms-improper-messages-firm-won-Medicaid-contract

Report: More Young Adults Have Health Coverage Under Affordable Care Act

With millions of Americans facing crippling medical bills and limited financial access to quality health care, a new report from the nonprofit Commonwealth Fund takes a look at health care coverage for over 4,000 Americans in 2012, and found that young adults are seeing coverage gains.

http://www.wtma.com/common/more.php?m=58&ts=1367079604&article=9B67C4ECAED811E286DEFEFDADE6840A&mode=2

Medicaid problems hinge of doctor, nurse pay

When new patients call for appointments doctors always ask how they intend to pay.

http://www.kswo.com/story/22095548/medicaid-problems-hinge-of-doctor-nurse-pay

Governor angry over Democrats' hospital debt stand

Gov. Paul LePage is blasting legislative Democrats' latest stand on repaying a $484 million debt to Maine's hospitals, questioning whether they really want to pay the hospitals.

http://bostonherald.com/news_opinion/national/northeast/2013/04/governor_angry_over_democrats_hospital_debt_stand?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+bostonherald%2Fnews+%28News+%26+Opinion+-+BostonHerald.com%29

Medicaid problems hinge of doctor, nurse pay

When new patients call for appointments doctors always ask how they intend to pay.

http://www.ksla.com/story/22095548/medicaid-problems-hinge-of-doctor-nurse-pay

Biotech report stresses practical education

The report was issued by the Coalition of State Bioscience Institutes and Booz & Co.

http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2013/apr/27/csbi-booz-biotech-report-education/

Missouri Legislature's actions are discouraging

In the April 25 newspaper, there were three very discouraging reports of recent actions taken by the Missouri Legislature: (1) The decision against the Medicaid expansion bill will deprive Missouri of billions of dollars in health care assistance and ... (Read full article)

http://www.joplin.com/news/2013/apr/27/missouri-legislatures-actions-are-discouraging/

Senate bill targets large compounding pharmacies Large specialty...

Large specialty pharmacies like the one that triggered a deadly meningitis outbreak last year would be subject to federal safety inspections and manufacturing standards, under a new Senate proposal introduced Friday.

http://www.news.net/article/259638/Politics/?

Driving down costs

There's opinions on both sides of the street over a no-fault auto insurance reform bill that rolled into the state Legislature this week.

http://www.grandhaventribune.com/article/375296

Judge on Morning-After Pill: No One Needs ...

A New York federal judge ruled Friday that the government must make emergency contraception available over the counter for women and girls of all ages within 30 days, instead of requiring a prescription for girls 16 and younger.

http://www.oldies969fm.com/articles/health-top-stories-104777/judge-on-morning-after-pill-no-11153329/

Medicaid problems hinge of doctor, nurse pay

The first question many doctors ask when new patients call for appointments is how they intend to pay.

http://www.elpasotimes.com/texas/ci_23121754/medicaid-problems-hinge-doctor-nurse-pay

Fla. House not backing down on conservative agenda

While the GOP on the national level discusses whether it needs to change its messaging to appeal to a broader base, Republicans in the Florida House are clearly sticking with a conservative social agenda.

http://www.sfgate.com/news/article/Fla-House-not-backing-down-on-conservative-agenda-4468677.php

Autism treatment can be expensive, but benefits can be dramatic, Hope ...

At a bill-signing ceremony just over a year ago, then-state Sen. John Gleason, D-Flushing, gives his autism awareness puzzle piece pin to Cooper Koenigsknecht of Fowler as father Scott looks on.

http://www.mlive.com/opinion/grand-rapids/index.ssf/2013/04/autism_treatment_can_be_expens.html

Obama commits to Planned Parenthood's cause

President Barack Obama vowed to support women's reproductive rights at the 2013 Planned Parenthood National Conference in Washington, Friday, April 26, 2013, and accused those looking to limit or ban abortion or restrict access to birth control of trying to " turn women's health back to the 1950s." "The fact is, after decades of progress, there's ... (more)

http://www.examiner.com/article/obama-commits-to-planned-parenthood-s-cause?cid=rss

Indiana General Assembly passes state budget, ends legislative session

INDIANAPOLIS -- The Indiana General Assembly ended its 2013 legislative session early Saturday after a marathon day of voting was capped by passage of a $30 billion two-year state budget.

http://www.thestarpress.com/needlogin?type=login&redirecturl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thestarpress.com%2Fapps%2Fpbcs.dll%2Farticle%3FAID%3D2013130427004%26nclick_check%3D1

Jindal administration confirms improper messages to firm that won Medicaid contract

BATON ROUGE -- Gov. Bobby Jindal's administration said Friday that former Health Secretary Bruce Greenstein improperly exchanged repeated phone calls and text messages with a company bidding for a lucrative Medicaid contract, creating an "unfair advantage" for the firm.

http://www.thetowntalk.com/needlogin?type=login&redirecturl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thetowntalk.com%2Fapps%2Fpbcs.dll%2Farticle%3FAID%3D2013130427006%26nclick_check%3D1

Illinois law keeps free market out of the Obamacare marketplace

When Illinois opens its health-care marketplace next year, it seems the only people who will not be actively involved in finding coverage for Illinois' uninsured will be the people currently selling insurance.

http://quincyjournal.com/obamancrea1367038604.html

Jindal administration outlines contract problems

BATON ROUGE -- Gov. Bobby Jindal's administration said Friday that his former health secretary, Bruce Greenstein, improperly exchanged repeated phone calls and text messages with a company bidding for a lucrative Medicaid contract, creating an "unfair advantage" for the firm.

http://www.thenewsstar.com/needlogin?type=login&redirecturl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thenewsstar.com%2Fapps%2Fpbcs.dll%2Farticle%3FAID%3D2013130426024%26nclick_check%3D1

Jindal administration outlines contract problems

Gov. Bobby Jindal's administration said Friday that his former health secretary, Bruce Greenstein, improperly exchanged repeated phone calls and text messages with a company bidding for a lucrative Medicaid contract, creating an "unfair advantage" for the firm.

http://m.thenewsstar.com/topstories/article?a=2013130426024&f=731

Governor angry over Democrats' hospital debt stand

Gov. Paul LePage is blasting legislative Democrats ' latest stand on repaying a $484 million debt to Maine's hospitals, questioning whether they really want to pay the hospitals.

http://www.sfgate.com/news/article/Governor-angry-over-Democrats-hospital-debt-stand-4468672.php

Attorney John J. Driscoll Files Lawsuit Against Manufacturer of Actos Diabetes Drug

The Driscoll Firm, P.C., has filed the second lawsuit in a month in Illinois state court that seeks compensation for plaintiffs who allege that they developed bladder and urinary problems after taking the Actos diabetes drug.

http://www.prweb.com/releases/prwebactos-bladder-cancer/new-lawsuit-filed/prweb10677852.htm

Senate proposal would subject large compounding pharmacies to stricter federal standards

Large specialty pharmacies like the one that triggered a deadly meningitis outbreak last year would be subject to federal safety inspections and manufacturing standards, under a new Senate proposal introduced Friday.

http://www.brandonsun.com/business/breaking-news/senate-proposal-would-subject-large-compounding-pharmacies-to-stricter-federal-standards-204855151.html

Attorney general reaches deal with Rockport dentist's assistant for hydrocodone possession

A former receptionist for a Rockport dentist pleaded guilty Wednesday to a drug charge and will see a reduced sentence if she assists in any state investigation of the doctor.

http://bangordailynews.com/2013/04/26/news/midcoast/attorney-general-reaches-deal-with-rockport-dentists-assistant-for-hydrocodone-possession/

Obama: Abortion foes want return to 1950s

President Barack Obama vowed Friday to fight with Planned Parenthood against what he said were efforts across the country to turn women's health back to the 1950s.

http://www.wtop.com/209/3300907/Obama-Abortion-foes-want-return-to-1950s

Obama all in on abortion, defends government funding to Planned Parenthood

President Obama offered a defiant defense of government funding for Planned Parenthood Friday and urged the group's members to help his administration sign up more women for benefits under his besieged health-care law.

http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2013/apr/26/obama-all-abortion-defends-government-funding-plan/

Health Care Inflation Slows Down, but Will It Last?

The slowdown in health care costs could very well be due to the overall economic malaise, rather than increased efficiency.

http://businessfinancemag.com/hr/health-care-inflation-slows-down-will-it-last

NHC Announces Settlements in Nonprofit Lawsuits

National Health Investors, Inc., , National HealthCare Corporation , the court-appointed Receiver for two Tennessee nonprofits, SeniorTrust of Florida, Inc., and ElderTrust of Florida, Inc., , and the Tennessee Attorney General announced today that they have agreed to resolve a long-standing dispute that has been the subject of litigation.

http://www.businesswire.com/portal/site/topix/index.jsp?ndmViewId=news_view&newsId=20130426005624&newsLang=en&ndmConfigId=1000639&vnsId=41

DMD Expert

While there seems to be a debate related to the dystrophin being produced by eteplirsen and whether or not it has proven to be correlated with a clinical benefit, I believe the FDA guidance on accelerated approval requires dystrophin production only be "reasonably likely to predict" clinical benefit.

http://www.thestreet.com/story/11906821/1/a-dmd-expert-and-mother-calls-for-eteplirsens-rapid-approval.html

Future uncertain for Medicaid expansion

Ohio Gov. John Kasich's plan for expanding Medicaid under the new federal health care law and giving more low-income Ohioans access to health insurance might not be dead, but whatever comes next will have a much different look.

http://www.crescent-news.com/editors%20pick/2013/04/26/future-uncertain-for-medicaid-expansion

House passes bill to end air traffic furloughs in victory for the GOP

The House on Friday passed legislation that would let the government redirect millions of dollars to air traffic controllers' salaries and expenses in a bid to end sequester-related furloughs that have caused flight delays around the country.

http://thehill.com/blogs/floor-action/house/296409-house-votes-to-avoid-faa-sequester-in-gop-victory

Dems in Congress: Finding Out What Is in ObamaCare Hasn't Been Much Fun

... and staff could keep receiving an employer contribution once they buy coverage through an exchange. The healthcare law doesn't speak to that question, and the agency that manages federal benefits hasn't yet made a determination. If members and staff ...

http://iwf.org/blog/2791169/Dems-in-Congress:-Finding-Out-What-Is-in-ObamaCare-Hasn

OP-ED: Pennsylvania must revamp way we care for seniors

The debate continues on how or if the Affordable Care Act will actually help Americans who need health care.

http://www.yorkdispatch.com/viewpoints/ci_23113723/op-ed-pennsylvania-must-revamp-way-we-care

Baucus is not alone

Last week, Senate Finance Committee Chair Max Baucus, one of the chief authors of Obamacare, caused a stir when he warned of a looming " train wreck " as the law gets implemented next year.

http://washingtonexaminer.com/baucus-is-not-alone/article/2528222?custom_click=rss

Mich. lawmakers, Snyder differ on saving for later

Gov. Rick Snyder's plan to sock away money has led to significant growth in Michigan's savings account since he took office two years ago.

http://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20130426/NEWS01/130429899/mich-lawmakers-snyder-differ-on-saving-for-later

Did FAA have to furlough controllers?

With disgruntled passengers complaining about airline flight delays, Republican lawmakers and the airline industry pounced on the Obama administration.

http://www.wdtn.com/dpps/news/national/fact-check-did-faa-have-to-furlough-controllers-nd13-jos_6051080

Senate bill targets large compounding pharmacies

The draft bill is the first Senate effort to address the recent outbreak tied to contaminated compounded drugs that sickened more than 700 Americans and killed more than 50 others.

http://www.adn.com/2013/04/26/2880238/senate-bill-targets-large-compounding.html

Will the Number of Uninsured Rise Under ObamaCare?

It is cruelly ironic, but the massive law that was enacted to solve the problem of the uninsured in America is more likely to worsen it.

http://blog.heartland.org/2013/04/will-the-number-of-uninsured-rise-under-obamacare/?

Obama: Abortion foes want return to 1950s

President Barack Obama says there's an effort in states across the country to turn back the clock on abortion to the 1950s.

http://seattletimes.com/html/politics/2020865680_apusobamaplannedparenthood.html?syndication=rss

Dems Beg Obama To Put Off Obama-Care Costs

Democratic senators, at a caucus meeting with White House officials, expressed concerns on Thursday about how the Obama administration was carrying out the health care law they adopted three years ago.

http://sweetness-light.com/archive/dems-beg-obama-to-put-off-obama-care-costs?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+sweetness-light%2FsURR+%28Sweetness+%26+Light+-+Articles%29

Draft legislation gives FDA authority over compounding pharmacies

Under proposed new legislation, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration would gain greater authority over pharmacies that compound sterile drugs for tailored use and ship them across state lines.

http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/04/26/meningitis-legislation-idUSL2N0DD1T920130426?feedType=RSS&feedName=rbssHealthcareNews

UPDATE 1-Draft U.S. bill gives FDA authority over certain pharmacies

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration would gain greater authority over pharmacies that compound sterile drugs for tailored use and ship them across state lines, under proposed legislation announced on Friday.

http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/04/26/meningitis-legislation-idUSL2N0DD1PC20130426?feedType=RSS&feedName=rbssHealthcareNews

Airport Fight Shows Who Washington Works For

Last night the Senate passed the Reducing Flight Delays Act of 2013, which would allow the Federal Aviation Administration to move money between accounts so it can stop furloughing air-traffic controllers.

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-04-26/airport-fight-shows-who-washington-works-for.html

In Pursuit of Quality Analytics

Dignity Health's data repository defines big - every night it grows by some 500 GB.

http://www.healthdatamanagement.com/news/data-analytics-repository-pqri-meaningful-use-46059-1.html

New antiviral drugs clear Hepatitis C in patients without treatment options

That's good news for the population believed to be most affected by hepatitis C: the nation's more than 70 million baby boomers - those born between 1945 and 1965.

http://news.ufl.edu/2013/04/26/hep-nejm/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+UniversityOfFloridaNews+%28University+of+Florida+News%29

AARP hypocritical on the utility-cost issue

A recent editorial by Jesse Salinas, State Director of AARP, raises a number of important questions about the current state of utility rates in Alabama.

http://www.al.com/opinion/index.ssf/2013/04/aarp_hypocritical_on_the_utili.html

NHC Announces Settlements in Nonprofit Lawsuits

National Health Investors, Inc., , National HealthCare Corporation , the court-appointed Receiver for two Tennessee nonprofits, SeniorTrust of Florida, Inc., and ElderTrust of Florida, Inc., , and the Tennessee Attorney General announced today that they have agreed to resolve a long-standing dispute that has been the subject of litigation.

http://www.businesswire.com/news/topix/20130426005624/en

a DMD Expert and Mother Calls For Eteplirsen's Rapid Approval

While there seems to be a debate related to the dystrophin being produced by eteplirsen and whether or not it has proven to be correlated with a clinical benefit, I believe the FDA guidance on accelerated approval requires dystrophin production only be "reasonably likely to predict" clinical benefit.

http://www.thestreet.com/story/11906821/1/a-dmd-expert-and-mother-calls-for-eteplirsens-rapid-approval.html?cm_ven=RSSFeed&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+tsc%2Ffeeds%2Frss%2Flatest-stories+%28TheStreet.com+Latest+Headlines%29

Altogen Labs Offers New Pre-Clinical CRO Services to Accelerate Pre-Clinical Research Needs

Altogen Labs is a GLP compliant laboratory that provides preclinical research and biology contract research services .

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2013/4/prweb10674479.htm

It's Not Just Conservatives Who Are Concerned that ObamaCare Won't Work As Well As Promised

Democratic senators, at a caucus meeting with White House officials, expressed concerns on Thursday about how the Obama administration was carrying out the health care law they adopted three years ago.

http://reason.com/blog/2013/04/26/its-not-just-conservatives-who-are-conce?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+reason%2FHitandRun+%28Reason+Online+-+Hit+%26+Run+Blog%29

Teamwork draws county delegation together on Capitol Hill

Although my first year in the legislature was the shortest in recent memory, I am extremely proud of our state's commitment to fiscal responsibility and job creation, and I am grateful that we have thus far resisted the urge to accept temporary federal funds to expand a TennCare program that has previously threatened the financial solvency of our ... (more)

http://www.williamsonherald.com/home?id=83453

The Bully Pulpit Tautology

Chait notes the circular nature of green lantern arguments as media accounts rush to blame the eminently predictable failure of Congress to pass gun control legislation on the White House: Would the threat of canceling the trip have caused Begich to reconsider, as the story implies? Obviously, we can't go back and re-run history and find out.

http://www.lawyersgunsmoneyblog.com/2013/04/the-bully-pulpit-tautology

Alexander Backs Bill Seeking To Block Another Meningitis Outbreak

Senator Lamar Alexander , the Ranking Member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, with Chairman Tom Harkin and members of the committee today released draft legislation that offers "the best way to help ensure that last year's meningitis outbreak never happens again-by making clear who is responsible for overseeing our ... (more)

http://www.chattanoogan.com/2013/4/26/249903/Alexander-Backs-Bill-Seeking-To-Block.aspx

Fact Check: Did Faa have to furlough controllers?

With disgruntled passengers complaining about airline flight delays, Republican lawmakers and the airline industry pounced on the Obama administration.

http://www.turnto10.com/story/22086650/fact-check-did-faa-have-to-furlough-controllers

Senate bill targets large compounding pharmacies

The draft bill is the first Senate effort to address the recent outbreak tied to contaminated compounded drugs that sickened more than 700 Americans and killed more than 50 others.

http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/2013/04/26/2480068/senate-bill-targets-large-compounding.html

Democratic Senators Tell White House ofConcerns About Health Care Law Rollout

Democratic senators, at a caucus meeting with White House officials, expressed concerns on Thursday about how the Obama administration was carrying out the health care law they adopted three years ago.

http://lucianne.com/thread/?artnum=733067

Deal reached; Pence tax cut sliced in half

Mike Pence procured half of his desired tax cut - over twice the time - in a budget deal unveiled Thursday and expected to be approved by House and Senate Republicans today.

http://www.jg.net/article/20130426/LOCAL/304269973/1002/LOCAL

Dem leaders won't seekObamaCare exemption

Republicans hammered Democrats for allegedly seeking to carve themselves out of a requirement in the healthcare law.

http://lucianne.com/thread/?artnum=733052

Health Insurance Shortfalls Hit Nearly Half of U.S. Adults: Report

Nearly half of all working-age U.S. adults, or 84 million people, faced the prospect of crippling medical bills in 2012 because they had little or no health insurance, according to a new report by the nonprofit Commonwealth Fund.

http://www.hon.ch/News/HSN/675803.html

a DMD Expert and Mother Calls For Eteplirsen's Rapid Approval

While there seems to be a debate related to the dystrophin being produced by eteplirsen and whether or not it has proven to be correlated with a clinical benefit, I believe the FDA guidance on accelerated approval requires dystrophin production only be "reasonably likely to predict" clinical benefit.

http://www.thestreet.com/story/11906821/1/a-dmd-expert-and-mother-calls-for-eteplirsens-rapid-approval.html?cm_ven=RSSFeed

After long debate, Minnesota Senate approves major pieces of budget...

The Minnesota Senate engaged in a marathon debate Thursday, April 25, on bills that would comprise more than two-thirds of the state budget.

http://www.twincities.com/ci_23103950/minnesota-senate-takes-up-health-spending-bill?source=most_emailed

Draft bill gives FDA authority over certain pharmacies

The Food and Drug Administration would gain greater authority over pharmacies that compound sterile drugs for tailored use and ship them across state lines, under proposed legislation announced on Friday.

http://yesbuthowever.com/draft-bill-gives-fda-authority-over-certain-pharmacies/

Feds won't match funds for scaled down state Medicaid programs

A federal oversight agency and the Barack Obama administration are telling states such as Arizona they won't offer matching funds for scaled down Medicaid programs.

http://www.bizjournals.com/phoenix/morning_call/2013/04/feds-wont-match-funds-for-scaled-down.html?ana=RSS&s=article_search&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+vertical_36+%28Pharmaceutical+Industry+News%29

Rally in support of health insurance for the partners of gay employees

Joanne Polisano, left, Mary Czartoryski, center, and Stephen Eddins join others in a rally outside the Michigan Hall of Justice in Lansing, Michigan, on April 11, 2006, following a state court of appeals hearing on whether governments and public universities can provide health insurance and other benefits to the partners of gay employees without ... (more)

http://www.americanprogress.org/issues/lgbt/news/2013/04/26/61507/how-the-affordable-care-act-can-help-same-sex-couples/

84M Americans were uninsured, underinsured in 2012

Eighty-four million people-nearly half of all working-age U.S. adults-went without health insurance for a time last year or had out-of-pocket costs that were so high relative to their income they were considered underinsured, according to the Commonwealth Fund 2012 Biennial Health Insurance Survey.

http://scienceblog.com/62613/84m-americans-were-uninsured-underinsured-in-2012/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+scienceblogrssfeed+%28ScienceBlog.com%29

Morning News and Stuff

Kearney said Over-the-Rhine would be an ideal benefactor of the new bill. "Senate Bill 116 will promote tourism and business development across the state," Kearney said in a statement.

http://www.citybeat.com/cincinnati/blog-4605-morning_news_and_stuff.html

Haley Heath Czar: Hospitals Are Bloodsuckers

South Carolina's sixty acute care hospitals posted an aggregate profit of $2.5 billion between 2008 and 2011, according to a document prepared by S.C. Gov.

http://www.fitsnews.com/2013/04/26/haley-heath-czar-hospitals-are-bloodsuckers/

Neuralstem gets approval from FDA for dosing cohort patients in NSI-189 Phase Ib in MDD treatment

Neuralstem, Inc. announced that it has received approval from the Food and Drug Administration to begin dosing the third and final cohort of patients in its ongoing Phase Ib to test the safety of NSI-189 in the treatment of major depressive disorder .

http://www.news-medical.net/news/20130426/Neuralstem-gets-approval-from-FDA-for-dosing-cohort-patients-in-NSI-189-Phase-Ib-in-MDD-treatment.aspx

First Edition: April 26, 2013

Today's headlines include reports that some Democratic senators have concerns about the health law's roll out as well as other news about the measure's implementation.

http://www.news-medical.net/news/20130426/First-Edition-April-26-2013.aspx

Derma Sciences initiates patient screening in DSC127 pivotal program...

Derma Sciences, Inc. , a medical device and pharmaceutical company focused on advanced wound care, announces that patient screening has begun in the second of two Phase 3 clinical trials with the investigational topical drug candidate DSC127 for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers.

http://www.news-medical.net/news/20130426/Derma-Sciences-initiates-patient-screening-in-DSC127-pivotal-program-for-treatment-of-diabetic-foot-ulcers.aspx

Sixth Circuit in MedQuest: No FCA Liability for Violation of Medicare ...

On April 1, 2013, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit overturned an $11.1 million False Claims Act judgment by the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee against MedQuest Associates, Inc., a large provider of diagnostic imaging services, and three of its Nashville, TN-area facilities.

http://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/sixth-circuit-in-medquest-no-fca-liabil-61234/

Mayo: Talking Legislature on TV Sunday

Shameless plug alert: I'll be appearing on TV this Sunday, taking part in a roundtable discussion about the last week of the Florida Legislature's 2013 session on Facing South Florida with Jim DeFede.

http://www.southflorida.com/sfl-mayo-legislature-tv-20130426,0,748313.story?track=rss

Ohio Senate Not Expected to Restore Medicaid Expansion to Budget Bill

Ohio Senate President Keith Faber confirmed during an April 24 press conference that he doesn't expect the Senate to put the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act Medicaid expansion back in the state's biennial budget.

http://www.redstate.com/jasonahart/2013/04/25/ohio-senate-not-expected-to-restore-medicaid-expansion-to-budget-bill/

State Agency Has Paid Planned Parenthood $3 Million Since 2008 Despite Lack of Regulation

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has claimed to have no relationship with Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains , but Media Trackers Colorado has discovered over 500 pages of receipts from the CDPHE to PPRM, totaling $3,118,486.14 since 2008.

http://www.redstate.com/pwatson/2013/04/25/state-agency-has-paid-planned-parenthood-3-million-since-2008-despite-lack-of-regulation/

Peace Corps volunteers don't have same federal coverage on abortion

If a Peace Corps volunteer is raped and becomes pregnant as a result, she has to pay for an abortion herself, because the federal government refuses to cover the cost.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/advocates-want-abortion-ban-lifted-for-peace-corps-volunteers/2013/04/25/cb47a420-ada0-11e2-8bf6-e70cb6ae066e_story.html

Republican senators reject idea of lawmaker exemption from Obamacare

Republican senators pushed back on the idea that Congress ought to receive an exemption from the health-care exchanges required under Obamacare, after Politico reported Thursday that leaders from both parties had been involved in negotiations to do just that for aides and lawmakers.

http://dailycaller.com/2013/04/25/republican-senators-reject-lawmaker-exemption-from-obamacare/

ezra_klein

This isn't about the Affordable Care Act as the rest of the country understands it.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/wonkblog/wp/2013/04/25/congress-isnt-giving-itself-special-treatment-on-obamacare-its-giving-itself-special-punishment/

Strengthening of drug supply chain's effects on independent pharmacies raises concerns

The House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health heard testimony on Thursday morning from representatives of the Food and Drug Administration and several industry trade groups following the introduction of draft legislation that sponsors said would strengthen the country's pharmaceutical supply chain.

http://www.drugstorenews.com/article/strengthening-drug-supply-chains-effects-independent-pharmacies-raises-concerns

Crisis to Cure: Maine's Health Care Reform Law is Helping Business

Opponents of Maine's new health care reform law erroneously describe the law as "a gift to the insurance companies." [1] In reality that gift has come in the form of more stable markets spurring investment and opportunities for insurers to compete for market share.

http://www.mainepolicy.org/2013/02/crisis-to-cure-maines-health-care-reform-law-is-helping-business/

House, Senate Leaders Trying to Exempt Themselves from Obamacare

Congressional leaders of both parties in the House and Senate are trying to exempt themselves--and their staffs--from Obamacare's health insurance exchanges they will be mandated to join under the law.

http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/3012281/posts

Senate leader may block Medicaid expansion vote

The Arizona Senate president has thrown up a new roadblock in front of Arizona Gov.

http://www.azfamily.com/news/Senate-leader-may-block-Medicaid-expansion-vote-204679991.html

Rules for health 'navigators' head to Kasich

A bill to require training and certification for a new group of professionals who will be available to guide consumers through the new health insurance market is on its way to Ohio Gov.

http://www.recordpub.com/latest%20headlines/2013/04/25/rules-for-health-navigators-head-to-kasich

Judge orders new deadline for FSMA reforms

A U.S. judge in federal court has ruled that the Food and Drug Administration has to come up with a new timetable to implement Food Safety Modernization Act reforms.

http://www.foodproductiondaily.com/Quality-Safety/Judge-orders-new-deadline-for-FSMA-reforms?

Washington Exempts Itself From Obamacare and Airport "Sequester" Delays

Obamacare concerns are, anecdotally, delaying hiring, causing firms to change benefits for the people, and increasing taxes on the great majority.

http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/3012250/posts

The GOP Claims Obama Manufactured The Current Air Traffic Crisis

Seizing on the public's frustrations with sudden delays in the nation's major airports, Senate Republicans on Tuesday charged the Obama administration with "manufacturing" a slowdown of airline flights by furloughing FAA traffic controllers rather than finding other savings under the sequester.

http://www.businessinsider.com/obama-manufactured-air-traffic-crisis-2013-4

'Obamacare' exemption in cards for lawmakers, congressional aides?

An explosive story in Politico on Thursday said c ongressional leaders of both parties are locked in talks about exempting lawmakers and their aides from the insurance exchanges they are due to join as part of the health-care law going into effect next year.

http://blogs.marketwatch.com/election/2013/04/25/lawmakers-hill-aides-may-get-exemption-from-obama-health-law-report-says/

Rocky Hill Residents Lose Fight Against Nursing Home for Inmates

Rocky Hill residents rallied, held numerous meetings and filed a lawsuit to stop a nursing home for prison inmates and mental patients from opening on West Street, but they were dealt a devastating blow this week when a judge dismissed their suit.

http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/local/Rocky-Hill-Residents-Lose-Fight-Against-Nursing-Home-for-Inmates--204683951.html

Box gets hip to HIPAA, adds health-record apps

Box says it's serious about bringing on health care customers by announcing compliance with HIPAA regulations and the adding 10 health care-oriented partner applications.

http://gigaom.com/2013/04/25/box-gets-hip-to-hipaa-adds-health-record-apps/

Medicaid plan takes another hit

Gov. John Kasich's plan to expand Medicaid health insurance coverage to more low-income Ohioans as part of the state budget has come up against another roadblock from Republicans who control the Legislature.

http://www.crescent-news.com/health/2013/04/25/medicaid-plan-takes-another-hit

Congress in quiet talks to free selves, staff from 'Obamacare'

High-level, closed-door talks among top politicos from both parties could lead to a deal that exempts lawmakers and their staffers from mandated coverage under President Obama's health care law, sources told one news outlet.

http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2013/apr/25/congress-quiet-talks-free-selves-staff-obamacare/?

paul_kane

House Republican leaders suffered a humiliating legislative setback Wednesday when a large faction of GOP lawmakers rebelled against a leadership proposal that had drawn the opposition of powerful outside activists.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/post-politics/wp/2013/04/25/conservative-mutiny-kills-gop-health-care-bill/

Pawleys Island: Opposition scuttles legislation to restore town's golf cart ban

State Rep. Stephen Goldfinch said this week he would withdraw the measure he introduced last week to allow the town of Pawleys Island to restore its ban on golf carts after receiving an outpouring of opposition.

http://www.coastalobserver.com/articles/2013/042513/1.html

Stock Losers: AbbVie Inc (NYSE:ABBV), Amarin Corporation plc (ADR)...

Marketbuzzreport.com , an investment community with a special focus on updating investors with recent news on the U.S. stock market, issues news alert on the following stocks:- AbbVie Inc shares decreased 1.82% to $44.32. Results from "Aviator," AbbVie's phase IIb clinical trial of its investigational direct-acting antivirals for the treatment of ... (more)

http://www.sbwire.com/press-releases/stock-losers-abbvie-inc-nyseabbv-amarin-corporation-plc-adr-nasdaqamrn-constellation-brands-incnysestz-242693.htm

The GOP's Idea of Health Care Eye Candy

I've already written a lot more than most non-specialist bloggers about the stunt Eric Cantor tried to pull yesterday on health care.

http://www.washingtonmonthly.com/political-animal-a/2013_04/the_gops_idea_of_health_care_e044364.php?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+washingtonmonthly%2Frss+%28Political+Animal+at+Washington+Monthly%29

Congressional Leaders Want to Opt-Out of Obamacare

... told Politico that the speaker's goal is "to spare the entire country from the ravages of the president's healthcare law," explaining, "He is approached daily by American citizens, including members of Congress and staff, who want to be freed from ...

http://www.newsmax.com/Newsfront/congress-opt-out-obamacare/2013/04/25/id/501356

Medicaid FFS Payments to Be Delayed in June

The payment delays apply to physician services, inpatient hospital services, non-hospital services, and home and community-based services.

http://www.mnmed.org/News/NewsFullStory/tabid/2266/ArticleID/4838/CBModuleId/10384/Default.aspx

Healthcare reform means better choices for businesses, workers: As I See It

For years, we had a health insurance market that was broken for small businesses.

http://www.pennlive.com/opinion/index.ssf/2013/04/healthcare_reform_means_better_choices_for_businesses_workers_as_i_see_it.html

Democrats, Republicans talk big game about deficit reduction, but don't act

Liberals' loud objections to White House proposals for slowing the growth of huge social programs make it clear that neither political party puts a high priority on reducing the deficit, despite much talk to the contrary.

http://lubbockonline.com/filed-online/2013-04-25/democrats-republicans-talk-big-game-about-deficit-reduction-dont-act

House conservatives want more failed attempts to repeal Obamacare

Freshman Republicans in the House say that they are "frustrated" that leadership hasn't made a single attempt to repeal the Affordable Care Act this year - after almost 40 attempts since the bill became law in 2010 - even though they know the move is purely symbolic and bound to fail.

http://www.salon.com/2013/04/25/house_conservatives_want_more_failed_attempts_to_repeal_obamacare/