Latest California Healthline Stories
Medicare Drug Benefit Price Negotiations Move One Step Closer
The full Senate is expected to consider the bill next week after two Republican members of the Senate Finance Committee joined Democrats in approving the bill. Democrats are working to stave off a filibuster. AP/Long Island Newsday et al.
Court Reviewing San Diego County Health Program
Counties are required by law to pay medical bills for indigent residents, but health care advocates say San Diego County officials set eligibility criteria that are too strict and disqualify many low-income residents. San Diego Union-Tribune.
Health Benefits Most Important to Workers, According to Survey
Lower wages or scaled-back retirement benefits are more palatable to workers than a loss of even part of their health care benefits, research by an employer group found. The survey also found that most workers are satisfied with their health insurance. Washington Times.
Audit Critical of State Nursing Home Oversight
Consumer advocates say an audit finding that California regulators over a two-year period investigated about half of the nursing home complaints within the required time period shows greater oversight is needed, but state officials say the findings are outdated. Sacramento Bee.
State Fund Notes Compliance With Regulator’s Order
State Compensation Insurance Fund highlighted steps it has taken to overhaul operations after an external review uncovered poor accounting and mismanagement. Sacramento Bee.