Latest California Healthline Stories
Cigarette Tax Headed Toward Ballot
After losing a bid in the state Legislature to impose a $2-per-pack cigarette tax, proponents will ask California voters to do it.
Parents of Developmentally Disabled at Regional Centers Get a Fiscal Break
Gov. Brown signed legislation this week putting parental fees at the state’s regional centers on a sliding scale.
Right-To-Die Bill’s Long Path to Law
Gov. Brown, wrestling with the idea of allowing terminally sick patients in California the right to seek medical help to end their lives, sees “comfort” in ability to consider options.
Aid for Police in Handling Mentally Ill
The governor approved two bills calling for new training practices for California peace officers in dealing with individuals with mental illnesses.
Governor Signs Bill To Address ED Delay
Gov. Brown signed a bill this week seeking to reduce long wait times in hospital emergency departments.
Court Rules Blue Cross, Blue Shield May Need To Pay State Health Premiums Tax
Two large health care service plans can be called health insurers, a court has ruled, and may be subject to California’s gross premiums tax.
Rural Leaders Advised on Vaping Danger
The array of possible health risks for rural Californians includes a relatively new entrant: electronic cigarette use, particularly among school-age children.
Law Will Help Limited English Speakers
Under a bill signed into law yesterday, California hospitals will need to post online plans for helping patients who have limited English proficiency.
Denti-Cal Program Grilled Again
After a series of legislative hearings and an audit by the state, the Little Hoover Commission took its turn at solving the Medi-Cal dental system puzzle during a long hearing in Sacramento last week.
National Drug Take-Back Day Saturday
California’s participation in the 10th annual national drug take-back day this weekend is part of a statewide effort to control the misuse of prescription medications.