Life and Heath News
U.S. Finalizes Patient Safety Rules
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has issued a final rule for Patient Safety Organizations (PSOs).
The rule becomes effective on Jan. 19, 2009. It provides final requirements and procedures for PSOs, new entities, with which clinicians and health care providers can work to collect, aggregate and analyze data - within a legally secure environment of privilege and confidentiality protections - to identify and reduce patient care risks and hazards.
Libke Insurance
Health Insurers Back Universal Coverage with Individual Mandate
The nation's health insurers have proposed guaranteed coverage for people with pre-existing medical conditions in conjunction with an enforceable individual coverage mandate.
Under the industry proposal, health plans participating in the individual health insurance market would be required to offer coverage to all applicants as part of a universal participation plan in which all individuals are required to maintain health insurance.
Does Extending Additional Insured Status Reduce Protection Available To The Named Insured?
Commercial general liability (CGL) claims involve three parties: 1) the insured(s); 2) the insurer; and 3) the injured. CGL coverage part "A" is designed to protect the insured(s) against the financial consequences of "bodily injury" or "property damage" claims made by an injured party.
Washington Launches New Insurance Fraud Web Site
Washington Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler is using his office's Web site to help fight insurance fraud.
In an effort to protect consumers, the fraud section of the site has been expanded to educate people on how to recognize and avoid fraud, and to make reporting easier. It also features facts about fraud and examples of real cases.
Washington proposes hot weather worker rule
Washington's Department of Labor and Industries (L&I) has proposed a new workplace rule to protect workers from heat-related illness when working outdoors in hot weather. This proposal is significantly different from the temporary rules L&I used the past two summers and now would require employers with employees who work outdoors to:
