> The Bipartisan Policy Center on Tuesday issued a report, detailing an action plan to curb obesity, according to The Sacramento Bee. The plan calls on private and public sectors, including hospitals and other work places to encourage wellness, provide healthier foods and promote breastfeeding. Article
> In its final rule, CMS eased up supervision rules regarding 27 outpatient therapy services, effective July 1. Under the relaxed general supervision rules, hospital outpatient therapeutic services such as psychotherapy, bladder catheterization, immunization administration and smoking and tobacco cessation counseling do not require the presence of a physician or nonphysician practitioner. Statement (.pdf)
> The proposed affiliation of Sinai Health System and Holy Cross Hospital, both in Chicago, could partner the health system's specialty services with Holy Cross's strong primary care services, according to CEO in an interview with Becker's Hospital Review. Both parties recently entered the due diligence phase of the potential partnership. Article
> The Houston Chronicle reported the origins of accountable care organizations, one of healthcare's "hottest trends." The oldest ACO is Kelsey-Seybold in Houston, founded in 1949. Among other innovators are Mayo Clinic, based in Rochester, Minn., and Scott & White Healthcare in Central Texas. Article
And Finally… What you can't put on your license plate. Article