Health CareCOVID-19 states of emergency are ending. Here’s what’s changing.February 28, 2023 | Janelle Salanga | Kate WolffeAs infections plateau, the state and federal government are lifting the states of emergency for COVID. Here’s what local public health figures say and where you can still find testing, treatment and other resources in the Sacramento area.
State GovernmentHome care workers could get more bargaining power with proposed billFebruary 27, 2023 | Kate WolffeA growing population of people need in-home care in California. Many people doing that work earn low wages and have few labor protections. A proposed new law could allow in-home health care workers to bargain with the state for better pay and more ri
Health CareDemocratic state attorneys general sue Biden administration over abortion pill rulesFebruary 26, 2023The suit comes as a federal judge in another case is considering whether to overturn FDA approval of the same drug, mifepristone.
State GovernmentCalifornia dangles bonuses for nursing homes that add staffFebruary 26, 2023Rather than simply reward top-performing facilities, the state’s Medicaid program will hand bonuses to nursing homes — even low-rated ones — for hiring more workers and reducing staff turnover.
Health CareBirth rates are declining in California. Here’s why experts think it's happening.February 23, 2023 | Vicki GonzalezStatewide births hit a peak in 1992, and more than 30 years later, that number dropped by nearly a third. Experts say economic, financial and cultural shifts have played a factor in the complicated decision to have — or not have — children. Listen /Update RequiredTo play audio, update browser or Flash plugin.
Health CareFixing the health care worker shortage may be something Congress can agree onFebruary 22, 2023The U.S. faces a shortfall of about 450,000 nurses and 120,000 doctors in the coming years. The Senate's top health committee, led by Sen. Bernie Sanders, is considering bipartisan solutions.
Health CareCalifornia says it can no longer afford aid for Covid testing, vaccinations for migrantsFebruary 22, 2023Gov. Gavin Newsom is winding down state assistance for health care services to migrants seeking asylum. He’s lobbying the Biden administration to increase aid along the state’s southern border.
Health CareIs California breaking its promise to cut health care costs?February 21, 2023The state set up a fund to cut costs for those enrolled in Covered California, but that money has been diverted.
Health CareCalifornia requires hospitals to turn to a patient’s next of kin, closing a longtime loopholeFebruary 19, 2023A state law establishes a list of representatives who can make medical decisions for patients unable to convey their wishes. California is late to making the change; 45 other states and the District of Columbia already have next-of-kin laws.
Health CareCalifornia lawmakers seek to bolster the state as an “abortion sanctuary”February 17, 2023 | Kate WolffeThe authors of two recently introduced bills say they are steps toward cementing the reality of an accessible, private abortion for residents and people who come from out of state to get the procedure and related care.
