California Hospital Officials Not Impressed by Research on ‘Out-of-Control Costs’
Harvard Business Review research contends that a few hospitals nationwide — including some in California — are responsible for a significant percentage of above-average charges to CMS and patients. California hospital officials did not put much stock in researchers’ conclusions.
Hotline Opened for Cancellation Issues
After making national news last week by deciding not to extend the deadline for non-compliant insurance policies, Covered California launches a hotline today to field calls related to policy cancellations.
Decision To Deny Policy Extensions Surprisingly Easy for Exchange Board
The Covered California board’s unanimous decision yesterday to reject President Obama’s deadline extension plan and leave California’s deadlines in place for individual insurance policies was met with almost universal support from stakeholders.
California’s Trans Fat Law Set Stage for Pending National Ban on the ‘Anti-Food’
A national effort to ban trans fat from all foods got its start five years ago when a similar law took effect in California.
Rosier State Budget Report Prompts Talk About Restoring Health Care Cuts
When California faced fiscal crisis, state officials cut health care spending. Now that it looks like the financial sky is lightening, will the state restore a few of those cuts?
The New Heath Coverage Gap: Will Obama or States Take Action To Close It?
A new health coverage gap is emerging in states that are not expanding Medicaid. Experts wonder whether states will act to help residents who are affected or if the Obama administration will provide aid.
Exchange Readies Second Web Opening
The Covered California website will upgrade this weekend and then launch for a second time — this time with capability to enroll small business owners and employees in the SHOP program.
Building a New Health Care Workforce
An Assembly committee last week staged a hearing on statewide health care workforce shortages in Bakersfield, where providers are especially scarce, according to legislators.
More Changes Coming for California’s Disparate County Health Systems
The rules are changing on several fronts for county health systems in California. Although the state’s 58 counties will continue to do things their own way, none will be doing it the old way.
Innovation, Policy Outlook for Autism
A state Senate committee, considering new policy for autism coverage, met in Santa Ana last week to examine a successful Orange County autism research and treatment program.