Latest California Healthline Stories
Belshé: More Guidance Needed on Medicaid Law
The federal government must provide more direction regarding the implementation of a new law that requires proof of citizenship to receive Medicaid benefits before California can comply, Health and Human Services Secretary Kim Belshé said. Los Angeles Times.
San Francisco ‘A Model’ for Children’s Health Coverage
Phil Angelides, the Democratic candidate for governor, said he would create a statewide universal health care system for children based on a San Francisco program and eventually would extend the benefit to all uninsured residents. San Francisco Examiner.
CMS Releases Medicaid Proof-of-Citizenship Guidelines
CMS said that current Medicaid beneficiaries “should not lose benefits during the period in which they are undertaking a good-faith effort” to establish proof of citizenship. Richmond Times-Dispatch et al.
Organ Donation Territories Vary
The University of California-Davis’ transplant center relative to the rest of Northern California demonstrates a nationwide trend in which organ-distribution patterns lead to some patients remaining on waiting lists, while healthier patients receive organs. Los Angeles Times.
Stem Cell Oversight Legislation Criticized
Independent Citizens’ Oversight Committee Chair Robert Klein sent a letter to patient advocates criticizing a bill by Sen. Deborah Ortiz that would increase oversight of the institute. Some advocacy groups have criticized the letter, but Klein said it was not written on behalf of ICOC. San Diego Union-Tribune.
Legislature Prepares for Budget Vote
The Assembly and Senate this week will vote on the state budget, which includes increased funding for children’s health insurance programs. AP/Contra Costa Times.
Officials Campaign To Enroll Children in Health Plans
A campaign to expand children’s health insurance coverage will focus on enrolling eligible children in Healthy Kids programs, Health and Human Services Agency Secretary Kim Belshé said. Fresno Bee.
AMA Discusses Consumer Clinics, Other Issues
The American Medical Association urged increased oversight of retail-based health clinics at the annual meeting of its House of Delegates. AMA members also discussed expansion of roles for nonphysician health care providers and a proposed tax on soda. Chicago Tribune et al.
Alameda County Staves Off Program Cuts
Increased tax revenue and savings from this year will allow Alameda County to close a budget gap without cutting health and social services next year. Oakland Tribune.
Judges Will Cooperate on Prison Reforms
Federal judges will work together to ensure that reforms to California’s prison health care and mental health systems are completed quickly. Bakersfield Californian.