States weigh assisted suicide: AMA launches more aggressive action to fight trend

Article Abstract:

Several states have introduced bills proposing to legalize physician-assisted suicide. The proposals were introduced because the Oregon Ballot Measure 16 won with 51% of the vote. Most state bills would allow physicians to prescribe lethal doses of medicine for patients to take. Michigan and New Mexico, however, have introduced bills allowing physicians to directly administer lethal injections. The American Medical Assn opposes physician-assisted suicide and has launched a campaign to oppose these state proposals.

Professional Organizations, Medical Associations, Health Programs-State, Political activity, Assisted suicide, American Medical Association, Health policy, Medical societies

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HCFA proposal: doctors must show lab tests are necessary

Article Abstract:

The Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) is proposing that physicians limit the number of laboratory services for Medicare patients and prove that ordered tests are medically necessary. HCFA believes that if physicians ordered, for example, 12 tests instead of 19, HCFA would save 60% in laboratory expenses. However, many medical groups oppose the proposal because the additional administrative burden of collecting lab test data would negate any savings.

Health Care Services, Medical care, Economic policy, Medicare, United States. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services

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Many say doctors aren't living up to expectations of living will law

Article Abstract:

The Patient Self-Determination Act (PSDA) of 1990 requiring that physicians provide patients with information on advance medical directives has had little impact in the health care industry. The act requires institutional providers to inform patients of their rights to make their own health care decisions. Although a study found patients are in favor of advance directives, only one in ten actually had one in place.

Emergency medical services, Living wills

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