Latest California Healthline Stories
Workers’ Comp Claims Review Proposal Up for Comment
The proposed regulations would maintain some heavy fines for treatment delays that employers and insurers oppose but would minimize penalties for lesser problems. Comments will be accepted through Feb. 22. San Francisco Chronicle.
Governor’s Health Reforms Could Hurt San Joaquin Valley
Panelists at a talk sponsored by the Central Valley Health Policy Institute said Gov. Schwarzenegger’s proposed health care overhaul could harm residency programs in the San Joaquin Valley and drag down doctor-patient ratios that already lag behind state averages. Fresno Bee.
Lobbying Effort Could Aid Renewal of Kids’ Insurance Program
The Association of Community Affiliated Plans says health advocacy groups with more clout on Capitol Hill need to push for additional funds to be included in a reauthorization for the state children’s health insurance program. The Hill.
Orange County Studies Jail Fines for Trauma Care
The Orange County Board of Supervisors is evaluating a plan that would fine undocumented immigrants held in county jails to generate funds for emergency departments in the county. Orange County Register.
Maryland, Washington State Enter Ring on Health Care Reform
A proposal in Maryland’s would expand eligibility for Medicaid and help reduce the state’s uninsured population by about one third, while Washington’s governor is championing a plan aimed at pushing individuals to purchase health insurance coverage. Washington Post et al.
Fremont Considers Paying Retiree Benefits in Advance
The city’s finance director recommended that Fremont pre-fund retiree health benefits to meet the full cost of health care packages pledged to city workers. Retiree health benefit costs for the city have risen by more than 25% since 2003. Oakland Tribune.
Democrats Fault Bush Budget Plan on Kids’ Health Insurance
President Bush’s budget proposal would limit eligibility for new enrollees in the state children’s health insurance program, and Democratic lawmakers said changes to the federal funding formula for the program would push states to drop coverage. Health industry groups have joined Democrats in opposing some provisions of the plan. Washington Post et al.
Prison Health Spending Comes Under Scrutiny
Republican lawmakers said the Legislature has a duty to oversee expenditures and would like Democrats to convene hearings to discuss rulings in two federal court cases. Sacramento Bee et al.
Schwarzenegger: Lower Tax Revenue Will Not Stall Agenda
Personal income tax payments are far below projections Gov. Schwarzenegger used in his budget plan for the upcoming year, but the governor said the change in revenue would not push him to change course on health reform. San Diego Union-Tribune, AP/San Jose Mercury News.
Health Advisers Could Fend Off Criticism of Governor’s Reforms
Gov. Schwarzenegger’s health care advisers have backgrounds representing employers, insurers, unions and patient advocacy groups. The group’s broad range of experiences could help mitigate opposition to the plan from key stakeholders. Los Angeles Daily News.