Latest California Healthline Stories
In State Budget, Inaction Can Be Action
Legislators are likely to seek more money for several health-related components that got short shrift in the budget proposed by the governor, according to an independent nonpartisan organization.
Advocates Surprised, Disappointed at What’s Missing From Brown’s Budget
Gov. Jerry Brown’s state budget proposal is most striking for what’s not in it, according to health care advocates who point to the absence of re-funding programs or provider rates that were slashed in more difficult financial times.
California Works To Help Small Businesses Navigate State Exchange
Rep. Ami Bera from Sacramento County, David Chase of the Small Business Majority, San Francisco business owner Virginia Donohue and Anne Gonzales of Covered California spoke with California Healthline about the growth and benefits for small businesses to enroll in the state’s health benefit exchange.
Will Mexico’s Soda Tax Spur California?
A new tax on sugary drinks and high-calorie foods in Mexico is sparking optimism among health advocates who hope California is ready to follow suit.
Advocates Want Infant Program in Budget
Children’s advocates are pushing for reinstatement of the Black Infant Health Program in California’s budget this year, restoring funding that was cut in 2009.
Most Small Health Plans Aren’t Thriving in Covered California. Meet Two Exceptions.
One small health insurer dropped out of Covered California. Another was kicked out, and a third is openly hunting for business. But a pair of plans are successfully competing with the big players dominating the exchange and carving out a slice of the market for themselves.
Blue Shield Disagrees With Jones’ Assessment of Premium Rate Hike
Blue Shield of California officials say a 9.8% premium rate hike — which Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones recently rebuked — is justified because of rising health care costs and new taxes and fees.
Returning Health Bills on Capitol Agenda
The California Legislature is back in session with a long list of health-related bills to consider — or reconsider — in the 2014 session.
New Overtime Law Has Far-Reaching Effects on Home Health Care Industry
Home health care work, which has been largely unregulated in California, will be regulated by a new law requiring overtime pay. Some industry experts say the new rule’s unintentional effects could create problems for both workers and those who depend on them.
Exchange Extends Payment Deadline
Californians who signed up for health insurance through Covered California will get a little extra time to pay premiums. Insurers agreed to extend the deadline for payment until Jan. 15.