Latest California Healthline Stories
Bills Would Expand State’s Family Sick Leave Laws
Two bills on Gov. Schwarzenegger’s desk would expand California’s family sick leave policies to include care for siblings, grandparents, grandchildren and parents-in-law. A third measure would extend anti-discrimination policies to include family status. The governor has not taken a position on the legislation. San Francisco Chronicle.
Clinton To Air Health Care Ad in Iowa, New Hampshire
The 30-second advertisement, called “Stand by US,” portrays Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton as the presidential candidate with the most ability to expand health insurance to all U.S. residents. AP/Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Commission Calls for Increased Disability Benefits for Veterans
In a report based on a 2.5-year study, the U.S. Veterans’ Disability Benefits Commission said that veterans have not received adequate disability benefits or mental health care. The group provided 113 recommendations, including increasing veterans’ disability benefits. AP/Boston Herald et al.
Maryland Medicaid Benefits for Dental Care Under Fire
A U.S. House subcommittee is faulting United Healthcare for its administration of Medicaid benefits, including dental services, for Medicaid beneficiaries in Maryland. The insurer disputes findings in an analysis by the subcommittee. Washington Post.
California Begins Sale of $250M in Bonds for Stem Cell Research
Individual investors purchased more than double the amount of bonds anticipated by the state treasurer’s office, prompting officials to extend the sale. California is petitioning the U.S. government to exempt the bonds from federal income taxes. San Francisco Chronicle et al.
U.S. Audit Raises Concerns About Humana’s Marketing
The CMS audit raised questions about whether Humana has taken appropriate measures to curb misleading sales practices to the elderly and people with disabilities. Humana is one of the country’s largest Medicare insurers. AP/Long Island Newsday.
Health Reform Plan Should Not Rest on Ballot Measure
An editorial argues that Gov. Schwarzenegger and lawmakers should not place all of their bets on passing a health care reform plan through a ballot initiative, a move that is too risky to trust in addressing California’s “biggest crisis.” San Jose Mercury News.
Retail Health Clinics Open in Orange County Pharmacies
Minute Clinic, a national chain of retail health clinics, provides routine medical services and treatment for mild ailments at a fraction of the cost for a physician visit. Its entry into the California market signals the growing popularity of retail clinics. Insurers have begun taking notice by covering the low-cost visits. Orange County Register et al.
California Lawmakers Study Home Care Options for Elderly Residents
Experts told lawmakers that state and federal Medicaid regulations deter patients from seeking home care services after being discharged from hospitals, even though such treatment costs less than care at a hospital or nursing facility. Sacramento Bee.