Latest California Healthline Stories

Veterans Courted In California’s Ballot Fight Over Curbing Drug Prices
The initiative would prohibit California state agencies from paying more for a prescription drug than what the Department of Veterans Affairs pays. Both sides are deploying veterans’ sympathetic and trusted image to win over voters.

Should Proposition 64 Pass Or Go Up In Smoke?
Two voices from law enforcement disagree on ballot measure to legalize marijuana.

Doctors Struggle With Medical Marijuana Knowledge Gap
Some states are beginning to require physicians to take courses to learn how and when marijuana might work for their patients. There is no such requirement in California.

A Chat With The Head Of California’s Doctor Lobby
California Medical Association President Steven Larson says it’s time to circumvent the state Legislature and go straight to voters with ballot measures that could increase how much Medi-Cal pays physicians.

Hospital Finance Measure On State Ballot May Stump Voters
Proposition 52 would permanently enshrine a significant source of funding for hospitals and limit lawmakers’ ability to change it.

California Suicide Hotlines Get Good Grades But Could Improve, Study Says
State-funded hotlines are helping callers, but little research exists to show that they actually prevent suicides.

As Marijuana Legalization Initiative Heads For California Ballot, Health Groups Weigh In
Health experts remain divided on legalizing marijuana for recreational use.

California Budget: Small Health Gains, Advocates Look To Nov. Ballot For Big-Ticket Items
Advocates turn to ballot initiatives to help fund higher rates for Medi-Cal providers, possible care for undocumented adults.

Report From Key Agency Raises Concerns About Proposal To Cut Drug Prices
Staff researchers at California’s largest public buyer of health benefits say the goal of reducing drug costs for the state is appealing but might not work in the real world.

Youth Film Contest Seeks To Reduce Stigma Of Mental Illness
The program, funded by Prop. 63 “millionaire’s tax,” has led to the creation of more than 1,600 videos in 35 counties across California. Participants say it has heightened their sensitivity.