News From Around the Web
> A telemedicine bill in Florida, if passed, would focus on insurance coverage, according to the Orlando Sentinel. The bill, filed last week by Sen. Arthenia Joyner (D-Tampa) is expected to be considered during the 2014 legislative session. If passed, the health-insurance requirement would take effect in January 2015, and the bill also proposes a similar requirement for the Medicaid program. Article
> Retinal Consultants Medical Group in Sacramento, with 10 offices serving Northern California, has announced the theft of an unencrypted laptop computer, according to HealthDataManagement. "In compliance with California and federal law, patients affected by the security breach are being notified of the incident, and, although the company is not aware of any access or misuse of the PHI by an unauthorized individual, they are strongly encouraged to take steps to eliminate or minimize any potential harm that could be caused by the theft," their notification states. Article
Mobile Health News
> Scripps Translational Science Institute (STSI), a National Institutes of Health-supported consortium led by Scripps Health, has initiated a clinical study aimed at evaluating whether the integration of wireless technologies, online social networks and medicine can lower healthcare spending, according to an announcement. Article
Health Finance News
> Despite the economic recovery, Standard & Poor's is not projecting a rosy long-term outlook for the nation's hospitals. First, the good news: The ratings agency has concluded that net patient revenue was at its highest growth rate since 2008. Credit upgrades for hospitals have also outstripped downgrades in both 2013 and last year by significant margins. Article
> Texas is still reluctant to expand the Medicaid program as part of the Affordable Care Act, but the federal government is offering flexibility in how the Lone Star State may proceed. According to the Texas Tribune, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Kathleen Sebelius wants to open discussions with Texas about an alternative to straight Medicaid expansion. Article
And Finally… Newman's not on the list? Article