ALSO NOTED: Tufts signs physician group; Canadian province might allow private health insurance; and much more...

> Tufts-New England Medical Center announced a partnership with Primary Care, the region's largest independent physician group. Story

> In a potentially far-reaching decision, Canada's Supreme Court struck down a Quebec law banning private insurance coverage for services covered by the country's Medicare program. Story

> A hospitalist wonders if hospitalists serve any useful purpose. Blog

> Costco announced it is exploring the individual and family insurance market with a pilot program at the chain's California warehouse stores. Story

> Adventist and Inova Health Systems are considering an interesting new strategy: building independent, free standing emergency rooms. Story

> After an ambitious start this year, lawmakers in Oregon have scaled back their plans to reform the healthcare system. Story

And Finally... An Israeli researcher says he has evidence that Jesus actually died of a pulmonary embolism. Story