Latest California Healthline Stories
Court ‘Clear’ in Ruling That Doctors Cannot Discriminate
An editorial supports a recent decision by the California Supreme Court that physicians can follow their faith but cannot discriminate against patients. The court ruled that doctors “cannot refuse a patient because of his or her sexual orientation, just as they would not be allowed to reject patients based on their race.” Los Angeles Times.
Schwarzenegger Administration Set To Appeal Medi-Cal Ruling
Next week, Gov. Schwarzenegger’s administration will seek a stay to a ruling handed down this week that halts Medi-Cal pay cuts to health care providers. The judge in the case ruled that the cuts would “irreparably harm” Medi-Cal beneficiaries, but state officials say the reimbursement reductions are needed to address the state budget deficit. San Francisco Chronicle.
San Bernardino County Hospitals Get $1M Grant
On Tuesday, the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors approved the allocation of $922,424, secured through an HHS grant, to help prepare hospitals for medical emergencies and disasters. The funding will be used to purchase supplies — such as new equipment, cots and tents — and to train hospital staff. Victorville Daily Press.
California Senate OKs Bill on Information About End-of-Life Care
The measure would require physicians to discuss end-of-life care options if patients diagnosed with terminal illnesses raise the issue. The legislation has won the support of the California Medical Association but is opposed by other health care groups. Los Angeles Times, Eureka Reporter.
Federal Proposal Could Hurt State Efforts on Contraceptive Coverage
The proposed federal regulation aims to protect health care providers who decline to provide abortions, though opponents say it also would apply to provision of oral contraceptives. Attorney General Jerry Brown says the proposal would affect a state law that requires employer health plans to cover contraception. San Francisco Chronicle.
Impact of Budget Discussions High for Rural Residents
The stakes of the state budget impasse are high for rural residents, who are concerned about Medi-Cal payment delays to mental health care providers. Medi-Cal reimbursements typically are delayed three months and sometimes even a year, forcing rural counties “to pick up the tab.” Capitol Weekly.
CMS Overestimated Savings From Medicare Fraud Crackdowns
The HHS Office of Inspector General challenged the methodology used in a report commissioned by CMS to look at fraud in Medicare’s coverage of durable medical equipment. The draft report likely will be released to the public next week. New York Times.
Health Care Drawing Less Attention in 2008 Presidential Election
Sens. John McCain and Barack Obama say that health care remains an important issue although other economic concerns have been receiving more attention in the general election campaign. Congressional staffers are gearing up for legislation on health care next year, regardless of who is president. Chicago Tribune et al.
Orange County Official, Doctors Face Off Over Funds
On Tuesday, Orange County Board of Supervisors Chair John Moorlach proposed withholding $54,000 from the Orange County Medical Association because the doctors’ group has requested records about the county’s Medi-Cal managed care plan. The funds come from a program unrelated to the Medi-Cal plan. Los Angeles Times.
Assembly OKs Amended Bill Capping Insurers’ Administrative Costs
Assembly members signed off on a bill that would require health insurers to spend 85% of premiums and other fees collected from members on patient care. Gov. Schwarzenegger has not taken a position on the bill, but his health care reform plan included a similar provision. AP/Los Angeles Daily News.