California lawmakers have cleared the way for a bill that would permit the state to fine hospitals up to $50,000 when they put patients in “immediate jeopardy” for significant injury or death. Less serious infractions would carry fines of up to $17,500. The bill (S.B. 1312), which amends certain sections of the state’s Health and Safety Code pertaining to healthcare facilities, is expected to pass this week, according to the Los Angeles Times. C. Duane Dauner, president of the CHA, told the Times he believes the bill “is reasonable under the circumstances to serve the best interests of patients and of hospitals.”
Attend HFMA’s Nov. 2 audio webcast, “Safety Data in Action: Mitigating Risk, Improving Quality, and Getting Paid for It.”
