Latest California Healthline Stories
Obama Defends Embryonic Stem Cell Research Decision
On Tuesday, President Obama said his decision to lift federal restrictions on embryonic stem cell research was the “right thing to do and the ethical thing to do.” In 2001, former President George W. Bush limited federal funding to research involving 21 already existing stem cell lines because of “fundamental questions about the beginnings of life and ends of science.” AP/San Francisco Chronicle.
Applications for Medi-Cal Up 12% in Ventura County
Medi-Cal applications in Ventura County have increased by 12%, Barry Zimmerman, director of the county Human Services Agency, said during a presentation to the county Board of Supervisors on Tuesday. In response to the increase in demand, the county has revamped its Human Services Agency Web site to provide more information on eligibility various types of aid. Ventura County Star.
Sebelius, DeParle Discuss Health Care Reform With Lawmakers
Yesterday, HHS Secretary-Nominee Kathleen Sebelius and Nancy-Ann DeParle, director of the White House Office for Health Reform, met with congressional lawmakers to discuss plans for health care reform. DeParle said health reform is a top priority for the Obama administration. CQ Today et al.
Judge Rejects State’s Request To End Prison Health Receivership
A federal judge denied the state’s request to regain control of the prison health care system, ruling that the court-appointed receiver still is needed to improve prison health care conditions to legally required levels. Meanwhile, a second federal judge said he is considering appointing another receiver to take over the prison system’s mental health services. AP/San Jose Mercury News et al.
Health Insurers Propose End to ‘Risk Rating’ in Individual Market
In a letter to lawmakers, America’s Health Insurance Plans and the BlueCross BlueShield Association said that their memberships would end the practice of charging different premiums based on individuals’ health status if all U.S. residents were required to obtain coverage. CongressDaily et al.
Governor Praises State Senate Approval of Stimulus Bill
In a statement, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger praised the California Senate’s unanimous approval of a bill (SB 3×24) that will pave the way for the state to accept billions of dollars in economic stimulus funding for health care programs. He writes that the measure “will ensure that California children continue to receive Medi-Cal benefits despite our difficult economy and budget shortfall by making necessary changes so that the state is eligible for ARRA funds.” Office of the Governor release.
CalPERS To Launch Electronic Prescribing Pilot Program
CalPERS will launch a yearlong pilot program to identify how electronic prescribing can boost patient safety and reduce health care costs. CalPERS officials say the project is the largest e-prescribing initiative in the state and possibly nationwide. Sacramento Business Journal, Sacramento Bee.
Cuts to Proposed Budget Possible; Health Care Not on the Table
Obama administration officials have signaled that they might be willing to accept cuts to President Obama’s proposed budget as long as health care reform and other priorities are preserved. A recent Congressional Budget Office report found that the proposal would result in the U.S. borrowing $9.3 trillion over the next decade. Washington Post et al.
Senate OKs Bill To Change Medi-Cal Eligibility Rules
On Monday, the California Senate approved a bill (SB 24 X3) to rescind a recent requirement that children reapply every six months, rather than annually, for Medi-Cal. Medi-Cal is California’s Medicaid program. Sacramento Bee.
Undocumented Immigrants See Cuts to Health Care Services
The economic recession has forced many state and local health departments to cut services for undocumented immigrants. Immigrant advocates argue that such cuts shift the cost burden onto hospital emergency departments and other health care providers. Christian Science Monitor.