Key Senate panel sets brisk pace for health system reform package Lawmakers at a Finance Committee roundtable zeroed in on the quality improvements and cost savings demonstrated by a Pennsylvania health system.
NIH policy loosening stem cell research restrictions disappoints both sides in debate Some research advocates and scientists are upset that techniques they support would get no federal money.
GOVERNMENT & MEDICINE Go to section Medicaid fees outpace Medicare but still low Medicare cancer patients win battle over off-label coverage EMR adoption higher in states with fewer privacy rules Medicare DME bidding program set to relaunch in 2010
PROFESSIONAL ISSUES Go to section Nevada lawmakers moving to change state's liability cap Medical students taking free online courses in quality, safety Doctor discipline inches up but still off 14% from peak In the Courts - Peer review hearing officer's role is limited
BUSINESS Go to section How to set your fee schedule: Experts advise updating it every 3 to 12 months AMA takes first steps to build physician Web portal Contract Language - Stimulus package alters HIPAA rules for business associates
OPINION Go to section 8 simple rules for health system reform: A new sounding board AMA Leader Commentary - AMA can help you prepare for the health IT future Letters - Insurers responsible for time pressures that undermine taking a good medical history
HEALTH & SCIENCE Go to section Accommodating aging: Helping your older patients live the life they want New federal policies sought to reflect HIV treatment gains Tight not always right for controlling diabetes Bariatric surgery found effective at lower weights
With success comes scrutiny ASCs face legal obstacles
Forced out of retirement Getting back into practice not always easy
Changing history The questions you ask patients keep expanding
