CBO says Cassidy health plan bill would raise $1B; Arches launches asthma app

News From Around the Web

> A proposal by Rep. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) that would let people keep cheap group health plans outlawed under the Affordable Care Act would bring in more than $1 billion in tax revenue over the next decade, according to a report released by the Congressional Budget Office on Tuesday. Report (.pdf)

> Arches Health Plan said today that it has partnered with Symptomly to provide a more "integrated care strategy" to asthmatic members, involving the use of a mobile app. The new app will empower asthmatics to work with their doctors to better manage their asthma and keep their healthcare costs down. Announcement

> Alignment Healthcare, an emerging healthcare services company based in Orange County, California, has purchased Citizens Choice Health Plan, a California Medicare Advantage plan which has been in business since 2006. Announcement

Provider News

> Many military hospitals are too small with too few patients to produce quality outcomes, according to a New York Times investigation. Article

> Although hospitals have long used therapy dogs to help patients, the animals can also help relieve the stress of emergency room doctors and nurses who must handle life-and-death situations every day. Article

> As disruptive behavior among physicians increases, hospital leaders must encourage physicians to practice etiquette-based medicine and promote a sense of empathy and compassion among staff. Article

> The Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General yesterday released a summary and its full report on potential obstruction of justice within the Phoenix VA. Article

And finally… Slow but steady wins the race? Article