Latest California Healthline Stories
ACA Wish List: What Experts Say Congress Should Change About the Law This Year
Repealing the Affordable Care Act is unlikely to happen, but experts say several provisions of the law still need to be changed. What should be next on Congress’ list of priorities?
Narrow Networks Can Limit Patient Choice, but Are They Affecting Provider Behavior?
While most of the focus on narrow networks in the Affordable Care Act’s exchange plans has been on how they affect consumers, some health policy insiders have begun considering the impact of such plans on providers. But is it too soon to tell the full effects of such networks on hospitals and physicians?
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.