Latest Morning Briefing Stories
Campaigns Launched To Move Californians From Fat to Fit
Even before a statewide survey confirmed this month that Californians are overweight, out of shape and getting that way earlier in life, health and government officials were responding with an array of programs and legislation to combat obesity.
Effort Urges Seniors With Chronic Conditions To Change Habits
Sparked by a grant from the Council on Aging, a three-year Healthier Living initiative hopes to help older Californians with chronic conditions take control of their health through behavior changes.
New Report Puts $38 Billion Price Tag on Alcohol Abuse in California, Urges New Taxes
Assembly member Jim Beall, Michele Simon of the Marin Institute, Edward Stringham of San Jose State University, and Fried Wittman of UC-Berkeley discussed the financial toll of alcohol with California Healthline.
Dental Advocates Fear Dentist Exodus From Denti-Cal
California dentists are increasingly questioning their involvement in Denti-Cal, the state’s dental and oral care program for Medi-Cal recipients. Lower reimbursement rates are part of the problem, but dentists say the program’s uncertainty and mountains of paperwork also are factors.
Adult Day Health Care Centers Stretched Thin, Cuts or No Cuts
Even if Medi-Cal cuts are denied in court, statewide programs providing health care services for frail elderly and disabled people — especially programs in rural areas — might have a hard time making ends meet.
Report on Funding for Single-Payer Health Care Welcomed
Critics and fans of single payer health coverage both claim that a report by the Legislative Analyst’s Office predicting massive amounts of red ink strengthens their argument. Both sides agree that while the issue may be moot for now, it will rise again.
Health Insurers’ Spending on Medical Services Target of Increased Oversight in New Measure
Richard Frankenstein of the California Medical Association, Nicole Kasabian Evans of the California Association of Health Plans and Sen. Sheila Kuehl discuss efforts to regulate health plan spending.
Collaborative Health Care Dashboard Adopted in San Francisco
San Francisco’s Health Service System, working with consultants and vendors, has engineered a collaborative, cooperative program to compare health insurance plans offered to city workers and retirees.
Tobacco Foes in California Think Globally, Act Locally
At a smoking cessation forum last week in San Francisco, tobacco foes argued for stronger anti-smoking policies, and two large California employers announced new programs to help their workers quit the habit.
New Group Represents Rural Health Clinics in California
Last week, rural health clinic officials formed a new California organization to educate and advocate on behalf of “one of the most misunderstood and overlooked pieces in the health system.” State officials say they are ready to work with the group.