Latest California Healthline Stories
Population Increases, More Elderly Residents Challenge California Nursing Homes
A growing population and increases in the number of elderly residents pose unique challenges for California nursing homes. Some advocates have praised the governor’s enactment of legislation to alter the Medi-Cal reimbursement system for nursing homes, but others say that other changes are needed.
Outcome of Health-Related Ballot Measures Has Implications for Future Reform Efforts
Some health policy players say that the outcome of the five health-related ballot measures on the Nov. 2 statewide ballot could inform future efforts to reform health care but differ as to what comes next. Looking at the results, some see increased support for expanding health coverage, while others see voter sensitivity to the state budget deficit and economy.
Clinical Information Technology Systems Play Larger Role in Chronic Disease Care
Efforts are under way in California and nationwide to use clinical information technology to improve care for patients with chronic diseases. But whether IT can help the fragmented health care system save money or improve care remains unclear.
Reaction To Nurse Staffing Rules Generally Favorable
Almost a year after nurse staffing rules took effect in California, the rules are generally positively received in the health care industry, although some groups are concerned about the rules’ impact on hospitals.
California Health Care Spending Below National Average
Distinct economic, political and social conditions in California result in a unique health care marketplace, in which some costs and utilization rates are below the national average, while some outcome measures are above the national average. Some health policy players consider possible explanations.
Medi-Cal Redesign Effort Being Informed by Other States’ Experiences
As the Schwarzenegger administration considers plans to redesign Medi-Cal, they are looking to other states that have taken on similar projects with their own Medicaid programs for examples of what such reforms can entail.
Possible Effects of Medi-Cal Redesign, California Performance Review Overshadow Budget Issues
The fiscal year 2004-2005 state budget did not include some funding reductions for health care programs Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) initially proposed, but health care leaders are speculating about possible effects of a state proposal to redesign Medi-Cal and some health-related proposals included in a plan to reorganize the state government.
CalPERS Gets Tough With Hospitals
A new era of hard bargaining is beginning between health plans and hospitals, and the California Public Employees Retirement System is leading the way. CalPERS is taking a hard line with hospitals identified as high-cost service providers and dropping them from its Blue Shield of California HMO network. Other large health care purchasers could follow suit.
Medi-Cal Faces Uncertain Changes
The Schwarzenegger administration on Aug. 2 is expected to announce a proposal to overhaul Medi-Cal, and some stakeholders are concerned about what the proposal could entail.
Critics, Supporters Debate Effects of Health Savings Accounts
Health Savings Accounts could have a major impact on the health insurance market. Supporters say the accounts will offer new chances to expand coverage. But critics say HSAs will segment the market, enabling the wealthy and healthy to enjoy tax breaks, while low-income and less healthy people are stuck with traditional insurance.