Latest California Healthline Stories
Advocates Oppose Halt To Kids’ Insurance Enrollment
As Californians face the bleakest economy in decades, California’s State Children’s Health Insurance Program is considering putting a hold on enrollment because of a budget deficit. Advocates say help could come from Washington, D.C. early in the next administration.
Critics Argue for Overhaul, Expansion of California High-Risk Health Insurance Program
Elizabeth Landsberg of the Western Center on Law and Poverty, Anthony Wright of Health Access and Robert Zirkelbach of America’s Health Insurance Plans spoke to California Healthline about the state’s high-risk insurance program.
State To End Part B Premium Payments for Some Beneficiaries
Thousands of low-income seniors will soon be responsible for paying $96.40 monthly premiums for Medicare Part B that California previously had paid. Senior advocates worry that the change will push some beneficiaries to opt out of Part B, which covers outpatient care.
Autism Advocates Pushing for State Laws Requiring Health Insurers To Cover Treatments
Kristin Jacobson of advocacy group Autism Speaks, Susan Pisano of America’s Health Insurance Plans and Antonio Hardan of Stanford University’s Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital discuss coverage of autism treatments.
Health Care Advocates Warn of ‘Dark Times’ for Latinos
Economic woes in California and across the nation make for a dim outlook for health care efforts for at least the next year, according to health care advocates in California. Recent research indicates that Latinos are at heightened risk of diabetes and face obstacles to care.
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.