Latest California Healthline Stories
Insurers Earn $9.3 Million in Tax Credits
A California Department of Insurance program that rewards California insurers for investing in projects for underserved communities awarded $9.3 million in tax credits this month.
Polio-Like Illness Identified in California; Cause Remains Mystery, Reports Says
A mysterious polio-like illness has struck 59 people, mostly children, in California over the past three years. The cause of the illness remains unknown, according to a report today in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Computerized Behavioral Therapy Could Boost Access to Care, but Barriers Remain
Computerized cognitive behavioral therapy is being explored as a cost-effective way to boost access to mental health services. However, two pilot studies at safety-net clinics in California highlight the various challenges to realizing the technology’s promise.
State Urged To Protect Consumers in Proposed Centene-Health Net Merger
Consumer advocates, contending that “health care mergers generally lead to … fewer choices, inadequate physician networks and higher premiums,” are urging state officials to protect consumers in the proposed merger of Centene and Health Net.
According to a new report from the California Telehealth Network, the past year has seen a wave of accomplishments and progress for telehealth technoloogy.
New Programs Raise Bar for Behavioral Health in L.A. County, Statewide
For those who deliver behavioral health services, the Excellence in Mental Health Act brings new opportunities to increase access to community mental health and substance use treatment.
Poll: Duals Satisfied With New Program
The Cal MediConnect demonstration program for dual eligibles in California got a boost from a poll that shows high levels of satisfaction with the program.
Under Review: How DOJ, FTC Decide Whether To OK Health Insurance Mergers
While some reviews last just 30 days, it could take antitrust regulators more than a year to approve or deny proposed mergers between Anthem and Cigna and Aetna and Humana. An antitrust law expert says that’s because the companies have significant overlap in business products and practices.
Hospital Buyer Agrees to AG Conditions
The state attorney general set stringent conditions on the sale of six Daughters of Charity hospitals, most of them safety-net facilities. The buyer, BlueMountain Capital Management, has agreed to abide by the terms.
Large Business, Or Small? Under Obamacare, Maybe You’re Both
Obamacare challenges aren’t over for businesses. Starting in January, companies employing 50 to 100 workers face complicated and seemingly contradictory new rules that will affect what kind of insurance they offer and how much they and their workers will pay for it. Wouldn’t you know it, one rule defines them as large businesses and another […]