Morning Breakouts

Latest California Healthline Stories

Small Businesses Concerned About Governor’s Health Proposal

Administration officials and legislators have not finalized details or costs for those affected by the law, but some business leaders have said that provisions of the plan could contribute to some firms’ eliminating jobs. Sacramento Bee.

Catholic Healthcare West Settles Patient Lawsuit

Patients in October 2005 filed a class-action suit alleging that they were charged “far more” than Medicare, Medicaid or private insurers would have been charged for the same services. Los Angeles Times et al.

Reauthorization of Children’s Insurance Program a Top Priority

Calif. Rep. Pete Stark said a House subcommittee will seek at least $15 billion over five years to fund the program’s reauthorization. CongressDaily, AP/Cincinatti Enquirer.

House Approves Expanded Federal Funding for Stem Cell Research

The bill received more votes than similar legislation approved in the last Congress, but supporters still lack the votes to override President Bush’s expected veto. New York Times et al.

Paid Sick Leave Set To Begin in San Francisco

Employees will accrue one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked. About 23% of workers in San Francisco currently do not have paid sick leave. San Francisco Chronicle.

Millions of U.S. Residents Do Not Receive Preventive Care

The quality of the health care system continues to improve overall, but lower-income and minority residents continue to receive a lower quality of care than other residents, according to a study. AP/Arizona Daily Star.

Governor’s Reform Proposal Elicits Commentary

Editorial boards and commentators nationwide continue to respond to Gov. Schwarzenegger’s health care reform proposal. Responses vary from calling provisions of the plan “just dumb” to saying that it could have a “nationwide impact.” Minneapolis Star Tribune et al.