Access

Alarmed by Disparities, Lawmakers Order Audit on Children’s Access to Medi-Cal Doctors

A joint committee of lawmakers unanimously ordered an audit Wednesday on children’s access to primary-care doctors in the Medi-Cal program, the state’s low-income heath program that is overseen by the California Department of Health Care Services.

“We are particularly concerned about children of color facing health disparities that could be perpetuated and/or exacerbated by poor monitoring and oversight,” Assemblyman Jim Wood and Sen. Anthony Cannella wrote in a letter to the audit committee.

The Silent Faces of Homelessness are People with Severe Disabilities

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) are among those who need affordable housing—and they’re much less likely to find it. We believe that people with I/DD should have the same human and civil rights to choose from the broadest range of home, workplace and communities supports and settings.

Seeking Free Dental Care, Californians Pack Anaheim Convention Center

The Anaheim event resulted in mixed feelings for the volunteer dentists, who came from all over the state to participate. Many were elated to be able to provide care that alleviated pain and enhanced the quality of life for people who often have a tough time getting breaks.

But they were also troubled that obtaining oral care—which many experts believe has a direct correlation to a person’s overall health—is so nettlesome for low-income Californians.

Bill to Reign in Health Care Prices Advances in the Legislature

A California Assembly committee has advanced a bill that aims to reign in soaring healthcare costs by giving the state authority to regulate prices charged by hospitals, doctors and other providers.

During a hearing Tuesday, the Assembly Committee on Health voted 11 to 4 to pass the bill on to the appropriations committee, the final step before legislation can go before the full Assembly for a vote.

Are We Asking the Wrong Question About Medi-Cal?

Health care advocates are always working on ways to make sure Medicaid is around to help people living in poverty. This is a good thing, but I also think it’s important to ask: Why do so many people require Medicaid? Why are so many people living and working in poverty? Why are we not working on more ways to lift people out of destitution?

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