Latest California Healthline Stories
Penalty Checks Arriving for Late Hearings
Seniors and persons with disabilities who had to wait months for eligibility hearings for a new state program are beginning to receive penalty checks from the state. But spending them can be a little tricky, according to advocates.
Medi-Cal Children Having Trouble Getting Dental Care Services, Survey Says
A study released yesterday by The Children’s Partnership shows some Medi-Cal beneficiaries — especially Spanish speaking families — are having difficulty getting dental care.
New Campaign for Medi-Cal Enrollment
California Primary Care Association launched a statewide campaign last week to get Californians to take advantage of the state’s expanded Medi-Cal program.
More Healthy Families Feedback Sought
The state is required to solicit input from Healthy Families beneficiaries about the transition to Medi-Cal managed care plans, but so far state officials have had limited success in engaging those families.
Scope of Practice a Hot Topic Across Nation
The California Legislature, mulling four proposals to expand scope of practice for some health care providers, is not alone. Other states are considering similar changes.
Training Launched for Exchange Educators
Covered California this week began training 2,000 community-based educators who will help sign people up for the state’s health benefit exchange.
S.F. Alzheimer’s Pilot Results Released
San Francisco’s coordinated care pilot project results for dementia patients released at a national Alzheimer’s conference yesterday showed a dramatic 40% reduction in emergency department utilization rates.
Grants Set for Rural Information Exchange
Federal, state and University of California officials have teamed up to promote health information exchange among rural providers, aiming for smoother and more effective use of electronic health records in California.
Workforce Training, Stop-Loss Bills OK’d
A number of health-related bills cleared committee just before the California Legislature’s summer recess, including legislation to expand the number of physicians in underserved areas.
Insurers, Legislators Clash Over Premium Disclosure Bill
Despite objections from insurers, the Assembly health committee approved a bill aimed at reducing health coverage costs by getting insurers to divulge more information about premium increases.