Latest California Healthline Stories
California Advocates Welcome Federal Plan To Deal With Disparities in Medicare
California health advocates welcomed the announcement last week of a federal plan to address barriers to Medicare access and care experienced by a range of minority populations.
The California Legislature has finished its business for 2015 without replacing a tax on managed care organizations. However, the issue remains in play while the special session continues.
Community Screenings of ‘Being Mortal’ Spur End-of-Life Discussion, Action
The film “Being Mortal” inspired 39 California communities to host screenings and discussions on end-of-life issues. The goal was to educate audiences about end-of-life choices and the importance of communicating with those who matter.
Accountable Care Organizations, Explained
This model of care is one of the ways created by the Affordable Care Act to reduce health care costs while improving quality of care. You can also watch the accompanying video that explains ACOs.
Committee Gives ‘Mega Bill’ Go-Ahead
A bill to revamp a managed care organization tax, impose new tobacco taxes and fund developmental disability services moved through committee yesterday in the California Legislature’s special session on health.
New Tobacco Tax Bill Touches All Bases
A new bill introduced in the California Legislature yesterday proposes a new tax on cigarettes and electronic cigarettes to raise money for a variety of purposes including solving the managed care tax conundrum, funding regional centers and boosting some Medi-Cal provider rates.
Farmers Market Match Bill Advances
A plan to collect federal money to subsidize low-income Californians shopping for produce at farmers markets was approved by the state Legislature and sent to the governor.
What the Anthem-Cigna Mega-Merger Could Mean for California
Anthem plans to buy Cigna, and their merger would create a new top player in California’s insurance market. But how much will it actually shake up California?
Day Care Worker Vaccine Bill Approved
The proposal to require day care workers in Calfiornia to get measles, whooping cough and flu immunizations has passed both legislative houses and is about to head to the governor.
Reproductive Rights Battle Continues
Controversy over a patient’s wish to be sterilized at a Catholic hospital illustrates what health advocates say is growing problem of reproductive health care delivery at Catholic hospitals.