Mental health issues increase stroke, heart disease risk; OR healthcare workers plan 3-day strike

News From Around the Web

> Patients with mental health issues have much higher risk levels for stroke or heart disease, according to a study presented at the Canadian Cardiovascular Congress, News-Medical reports. Article

> Prescription opioids make up the majority of emergency department visits for opioid overdoses, according to a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine. Study abstract

> Healthcare workers represented by the Service Employees International Union at Eugene, Oregon's McKenzie Willamette Medical Center plan to begin a three-day strike today, according to KVAL. Article

Health Finance News

> The average hospital liability claim is approaching $500,000, according to new data from the American Society for Healthcare Risk Management. Article

> Challenged by insurers ratcheting down their payments, hospitals and medical groups are creating more fees and charges for patients to pay as part of the care they receive, The New York Times reported. Article

And Finally… Strange bedfellows. Article