Latest California Healthline Stories
What Will Happen to HSAs Under Reform?
More than one million Californians now are covered by health savings account-eligible health plans. However, the six-year-old HSA model may be threatened by the health care overhaul.
Early Expansion of Medi-Cal Probably Not in the Cards
Although a few jurisdictions across the nation are moving to expand their Medicaid programs ahead of a federal deadline to do so, budgetary pressure and political uncertainty may prevent California officials from making a similar decision.
Community Clinics To Assume Key Reform Role
New federal funding for community health centers is an essential, if oft-overlooked, aspect of the health reform overhaul. In California, the centers could become the medical home for several million additional patients.
Governor’s Support for Reform Not Just Political
Gov. Schwarzenegger’s recent pledge to support federal health reform could be seen as a change in the political winds, but it appears to have been grounded in policy preferences and practical implementation concerns.
California Gears Up for Reform Provisions Taking Effect This Year
More than a month after President Obama signed health reform into law, California lawmakers, health providers, insurers and patients are gearing up for the slew of provisions set to take effect this year.
Health Care Reform Could Be Taxing for Hospitals
Health reform doesn’t formally alter the tax code for health care providers, but the law could have an effect on tax exemption for not-for-profit hospitals as more people gain insurance coverage and hospitals’ charity care spending decreases.
Seeking Answers on Medicaid Expansion
The success of the health reform implementation hinges on a broad Medicaid expansion, but state officials have significant questions as they grapple with new requirements. Meanwhile, the reform law likely prevents the governor’s proposed budget cuts to state health insurance programs.
Fight Over Premium Hikes Just Beginning
Outrage over Anthem’s proposed double-digit premium hikes played a crucial role in the health reform debate, but states’ own efforts to curb premiums are sparking stand-offs across the nation. Critics say the showdowns foreshadow greater disputes over reform’s implementation.
Stakeholders Push To Influence Reform Direction
Although the national battle for a health care overhaul has ended, a series of lower-profile spats and fixes has begun, as stakeholders attempt to close — or exploit — newly opened loopholes.
Key Questions Remain for Reform Bill’s Rollout
While Democrats are celebrating their passage of historic health reform legislation, there are significant questions about how certain provisions will affect states like California. Plans for new high-risk pools and payment reductions for Medicare Advantage could present challenges for the state.