Latest California Healthline 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.
HMOs Enter Homestretch Before New Language Law Takes Effect
California HMOs are gearing up for a new language assistance law that takes effect in six months. Health plans must provide translated materials and interpretation services to any member who needs it in whatever language or form.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Sense of Austerity Goes Beyond Budget, Hits Legislature
Belt-tightening in California this spring isn’t limited to talk of next year’s budget. A penny-pinching mood — set by two appropriations committees — has settled over both houses of the state Legislature.
Immigrants Hit Hard by Governor’s Planned Medi-Cal Cuts, Changes
In five months, Californians have moved from talking about major reforms that would bring affordable health care to almost everyone in the state to talking about deep cuts in the Medi-Cal program that could add 800,000 to the 6.7 million already without health insurance. Immigrants will be among the most affected, health advocates predict.