National budget battles could holdup ACO regulations; Kaiser Permanente launches contest for small hospital design;

> Blue Shield of California's requested rate hikes are reasonable, according to an outside actuarial firm, reports the Los Angeles Times. Article

> Budget showdowns could delay release of ACO regulations, the National Journal Daily reports. Article

> Kaiser holds contest to design smaller hospital, notes California Healthline. Article

And Finally... We don't scream for this ice cream. Article