Review the latest posts by ASLME Publications Director Ted Hutchinson - then respond with your own thoughts and insights. We also invite you to participate in our forums or drop a note in our suggestion box. This is your page - and your opportunity to shape the debate. So jump right in, and check back often to see what's new. http://www.aslme.org/Ted_Lines 2010-07-30 13:00 First, in public health news, anti-smoking efforts seem to be losing out in the face of increased anti-obesity funding. The New York Times reports that with the shift in public health priorities from smoking prevention to obesity prevention, many institutions that once heavily funded anti-tobacco efforts are now putting that money elsewhere. The Times further reports that not only pr... http://www.aslme.org/Ted_Lines?post=280 2010-07-26 13:00 In international health law news, England is reorganizing the National Health Service. The changes, which shift more decision-making responsibility to doctors, are the largest changes to the system since 1948. According to the New York Times, Practical details of the plan are still sketchy. But its aim is clear: to shift control of Englands $160 billion annual health budget from a ... http://www.aslme.org/Ted_Lines?post=278 2010-07-19 13:00 In health reform litigation news, the Obama Administration is taking the legal position that the individual mandate is a tax. Although in the lead up to the passage of health reform the administration was adamant that the individual mandate was not a tax, the mandate is included in the tax code, and non-compliance does result in a tax penalty. In response to legal challenges to the c... http://www.aslme.org/Ted_Lines?post=277 2010-07-16 13:00 In health reform news,health plans will have to provide some preventive services to consumers free of charge under new regulations. Pursuant to new rules put forth by the Obama Administration, health plans will have to eliminate co-pays and deductibles for certain types of health care services aimed at keeping patients healthy. According to the New York Times, The rules will elimina... http://www.aslme.org/Ted_Lines?post=276 2010-07-13 13:00 In government news, the Department of Health and Human Services is providing $25 million to purchase medication for low income people with HIV/AIDS. However, patient advocates believe the money will not be enough to deal with the large number of people on medication waiting lists since the recession. The Administrations actions come after both parties in congress expressed concerns o... http://www.aslme.org/Ted_Lines?post=275