> The Joint Commission issued a new requirement that all accredited organizations have an annual flu vaccination program for staff. The updated requirement takes effect July 1 for hospitals and long-term care providers and will be phased in for other providers during the next year. Report
> Former U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Secretary Mike Leavitt will lead the transition team for Mitt Romney, should he win the presidency, reported The Boston Globe. Article
> Two-thirds (67 percent) of voters polled say they believe "fear of being sued is causing doctors to order unnecessary medical tests and procedures just to protect themselves from possible lawsuits," according to a poll from NBC and the Wall Street Journal, reported The Atlantic. Article
> To extend its reach in behavioral healthcare, Universal Health Services in Pennsylvania will acquire Ascend Health Corporation, the largest private psychiatric hospital provider, for $500 million in cash, the Pennsylvania-based hospital chain announced yesterday. Announcement
And Finally… It's summer. Time for the Snuggie? Article