Latest California Healthline Stories
How Two States Are Addressing Consumer Concerns About Narrow Networks
Insurers, regulators and state and federal lawmakers spent a good portion of last year belatedly acknowledging consumer complaints about health plans limited provider networks, learning more about the problem and drafting nascent solutions. Here’s a look at how two states are handling the issue.
Patient Satisfaction Among Low-Income Patients on the Rise, Survey Says
Despite concerns about problems with access to care as millions of residents gained health coverage through Medi-Cal expansion or Covered California, patient satisfaction among low-income Californians increased from 2011 to 2014, according to a study by Blue Shield of California Foundation.
New Rules To Limit Narrow Networks
The state insurance commissioner’s narrow network regulations went into effect yesterday, setting new standards for wait times and provider availability.
UCLA Report Could Serve as ‘Baseline’ To Measure ACA Effects
“The State of Health Insurance” report from UCLA’s Center for Health Policy Research could help state officials and legislators evaluate the effects of the Affordable Care Act in California.
What the Affordable Care Act Means for Taxpayers in 2015
This year’s tax season marks the first time U.S. residents will have to report their health insurance status, and possibly pay a penalty under the Affordable Care Act’s individual mandate. One tax expert predicts a “bumpy road” ahead.
Inland Empire Health Plan Tops One Million, Scurries To Keep Up With Growth
Inland Empire Health Plan — thought to be California’s fastest-growing health insurer — has surpassed the one-million mark with the addition of 350,000 new enrollees.
Examining the Questions Surrounding King v. Burwell
The question at the heart of King v. Burwell — can people who purchase health coverage through the federal exchange receive subsidies? — is fairly simple. But how the Supreme Court decides to answer that very question could cause a ripple effect.
Health Net Sued Over Network Adequacy
A lawsuit filed this week in Los Angeles Superior Court claims that a small provider network resulted in permanent harm to a Health Net of California enrollee.
Forum Examines Residually Uninsured
Even after expansion of Medi-Cal, there still are an estimated three million to four million Californians without health insurance. A panel of experts discussed some possible solutions yesterday.
ACA: A List of Reasons for the White House To Be Thankful — and Not-So-Thankful
There were both victories and challenges for the Obama administration in 2014, as it continued to implement the Affordable Care Act. On the eve of Thanksgiving, this edition of “Road to Reform” ponders what the administration might be giving thanks for in 2014 — as well as some developments it might not be so grateful for.