The California Medical Association reaffirms its position against physician-assisted suicide, citing ethical and professional objections.

Prominent California physicians, hospitals, healthcare workers and insurers have formed an alliance to work toward comprehensive healthcare reform this year. Comprised of the California Medical Association, Service Employees International Union, Blue Shield of California, Kaiser Permanente, Catholic Healthcare West and Health Net, the coalition joined together to support three principles critical to achieving reform: universal coverage, shared responsibility and stable, long-term funding.

Problems persist despite agreements from health plans to correct their payment and contracting policies.

Los Angeles, Orange and Ventura Counties are among the 10 California counties that have received federal funding to provide healthcare services to the uninsured. A total of $540 million has been awarded to county healthcare programs throughout the state; Los Angeles received $54 million, Orange County received $16.9 million and Ventura County received $10 million.

The nation's shaky trauma care and emergency services systems are getting attention in Washington, D.C., with the passage and introduction of several bills.

The California Medical Association is buoyed by the survey results that show the public does not support the doctor "tax."

Eli Capouya, MD, * Lance Lee, MD * Howard Murad, MD * Conrad Salinas, MD * Maria Minon, MD

Debra Judelson, MD * Barry Behrstock, MD * Brian Palafox, MD * Satinder Swaroop, MD * David Ginsberg, MD