Docs still want biased medical education; More safety net hospitals seek closure due to state budget cuts;

> A new survey from the Massachusetts Medical Society shows that insurance coverage doesn't always equal access to care. More than half of primary care practices in Massachusetts are not accepting new patients--and patients are experiencing longer wait times to see physicians--thanks to many physicians refusing to accept the state's subsidized insurance programs. Press Release

> Although doctors believe pharma funding may bias continuing medical education (CME), a new survey finds that most are unwilling to pay for education that is not sponsored by drugmakers and medical device companies, reports Reuters. Of 770 doctors, just 15 percent would like to see commercial influences completely removed. Article

> Hospitals that joined HHS' initiative to improve patient safety by reducing hospital-acquired conditions should look to ICUs in Michigan for direction, as they sustained zero blood stream infections for up to two years, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality announced. Announcement

> State budget cuts in Illinois are about to take two more victims, reports the Associated Press. Two safety net hospitals are asking the state's permission to shut down after providing care to low-income residents for more than 100 years. Article

> Doctors in Florida soon will be liable for a $500 fine for asking patients or their parents whether they have guns at home, reports Medical News Today. However, doctors can ask the question if they feel their patient is in danger. Article

And Finally... Personality determines medication adherence. Article