Chelsey Ledue

Revenue in medical practices declined in 2008, according to the Medical Group Management Association.

Despite help from the federal government, the number of people enrolled in Medicaid - and state spending on the program - are climbing sharply as a result of the recession, straining state budgets and pressuring officials to curb costs.

A new report commissioned by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation projects that if federal reform efforts are not enacted, the cost would be substantial.

Six hospitals in Indiana and Alabama have agreed to pay more than $8 million to settle allegations of Medicare fraud, according to the Department of Justice.

The Department of Health and Human Services has awarded $40 million to help 41 states and the District of Columbia find and enroll uninsured children who are eligible for either Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program.

Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius has awarded grants totaling $27.8 million to health center-controlled networks and large multi-site health centers to implement electronic health records and other health information technology.

Benefits consortia, buying groups and co-ops are helping employers to keep health insurance premiums at a manageable level.

Many consumers continue to struggle with financial challenges, some of which could affect their health, according to a survey released by the American Optometric Association.

The California Department of Public Health has fined 11 hospitals for noncompliance with requirements of licensure that have caused, or would be likely to cause, serious injury or death to patients.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has awarded $4.37 million in competitive grants to enhance healthcare information management and improve the detection of and response to emerging public health threats.