Latest California Healthline Stories
Support for Health Care Reform Law Has Stayed Stable Over Two Years
A new analysis finds that support for the federal health reform law has remained stagnant during the two years since it was enacted. In related news, critics of the reform law have outspent supporters by about three-to-one on advertising related to the federal health care overhaul. Wall Street Journal et al.
Anthem Blue Cross Will Reduce Planned Premium Rate Increases
Anthem Blue Cross has agreed to lower premium rate increases for about 600,000 policyholders from an average of 10.4% to 8.2%. State officials sought the lower rate hike after questioning Anthem’s estimates for medical expenses. Los Angeles Times.
Judge: Calif. Violated Law by Not Disclosing Info on Medi-Cal Cuts
A superior court judge has ruled that the Department of Health Care Services violated disclosure law when it refused to provide background information on a proposed 10% cut to Medi-Cal payments. The judge ordered the state to release the information. Sacramento Bee‘s “Capitol Alert.”
Union Merger Could Affect Entertainers’ Health Plans
Members of the Screen Actors Guild and the American Federation of TV and Radio Artists have until March 30 to return ballots on a proposed merger of the two unions. A pending lawsuit against the merger argues that SAG’s board has breached its fiduciary duty because it has not analyzed how the merger would affect members’ pensions and health plans. KPCC’s “KPCC News.”
U.N. Petition Seeks Review of Prisoner Living Conditions
On Tuesday, an attorney for 400 California inmates held in solitary confinement because of gang ties said he will petition the United Nations to stop the practice and assess the prisoners’ living conditions, and mental and physical health. The petition asks the UN to allow an independent group to interview the prisoners and examine their medical files. AP/San Francisco Chronicle.
House Committee OKs Ryan’s Budget Blueprint for Fiscal Year 2013
The House Budget Committee has approved Committee Chair Paul Ryan’s new budget plan, which includes proposals to repeal the health reform law and alter Medicare and Medicaid. GOP leaders say they expect the full House to pass the measure. The Hill‘s “On the Money” et al.
FDA To Consider Digital Tools for Patient Self-Screening
FDA recently announced that it will hold public hearings in Washington, D.C., on Thursday and Friday about whether consumers should be able to use online questionnaires, patient kiosks or other technologies to conduct self-screenings and obtain certain medications. The agency will consider ending prescription requirements for drugs commonly used for various conditions, such as asthma and diabetes. KPCC’s “KPCC News.”
Calif. Health Advocates Mark Two Years of Health Reform
On Tuesday, several California lawmakers joined state health care advocates at the state Capitol to mark this week’s two-year anniversary of the federal health reform law and promote a new Health Access California report about the law’s benefits. Capitol Public Radio’s “KXJZ News.”
Editorial: Voters Should Reject Tax Hike Compromise
An Orange County Register editorial urges California voters to “decline” the compromise tax hike proposal developed by Gov. Brown and supporters of the “Millionaires Tax” because it would “further damage this overtaxed and over-regulated state.” It adds that “the tax increases are accompanied by no real budget reforms, such as spending limitations.” Orange County Register.
Procedural House Vote Advances Bill To Repeal Health Reform’s IPAB
Yesterday, the House took a procedural vote to advance a bill that would repeal the federal health reform law’s Independent Payment Advisory Board. The bill is expected to pass the House in a final floor vote but is unlikely to receive Senate approval. The Hill‘s “Healthwatch.”