Significant updates to numerous state-run health care programs are taking place. Here are some recent changes that may affect your patients and practice. Aged, Blind, and Disabled Eligibility Expansion On December 20, 2019, DHCS received federal approval of a CAFP-supported State Plan Amendment (SPA 19-0050) to extend Medi-Cal coverage to Aged, Blind, and Disabled individuals earning […]
On January 31, Governor Newsom announced the appointment of Bradley Gilbert, MD as the new Director for the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS). Dr. Gilbert graduated from UC San Diego School of Medicine in 1983 and is board certified in Public Health and General Preventive Medicine. He previously worked at the Inland Empire Health Plan […]
CAFP recently submitted follow-up comments on updated regulations proposed by the California Department of Justice regarding use of California's prescription drug monitoring database, the Controlled Substance Utilization Review and Evaluation System (CURES). While the updated regulations would increase data access for health team members and slightly restrict third-party access to CURES information, CAFP remains concerned that the Department’s proposal […]
CAFP strongly cautioned the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) this week against pursuing its proposed rule on “Medicaid Fiscal Accountability.” The proposal goes far beyond fiscal accountability and transparency, and instead would severely restrict the methods by which states can pay providers and fund Medicaid costs. The significantly flawed proposal would devastate Medi-Cal patient access […]
In a recent 5-4 decision, the Supreme Court voted to lift a nationwide injunction against a Trump Administration rule that would make it more difficult for immigrants to receive green cards or visas. Under the so-called “public charge” policy, some immigrants who lawfully access public benefits could face adverse consequences when applying to change their […]
The California Academy of Family Physicians Foundation announced the Susan Hogeland, CAE Health Policy Fellows for 2020. Amy Komure, MD, MPH (Long Beach Memorial RMRP), Anna Askari, MD, MSBS (Eisenhower, FMRP), and Hannah Dragomanovich (Tuoro University) will spend the next year working with CAFP leaders and staff to address advocacy, public health and policy issues. […]
Governor Gavin Newsom released his 2020-21 Budget today, citing a strong economy to propose increased spending over several priority areas including health care, housing and the environment. As part of his budget announcement, the Governor has rebranded the California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal initiative (CalAIM) as the Medi-Cal Healthier California for All initiative, a consolidation of California’s […]
The Steven M. Thompson Physician Corps Loan Repayment Program repays up to $105,000 in educational loans in exchange for three years of full-time practice in a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) or Primary Care Shortage Area (PCSA) in California. Recently licensed physicians are eligible for the award up to two times. The application cycle is now open […]
CAFP's All Member Advocacy Meeting (AMAM) is your chance to make change in health care policy - Be sure to REGISTER for the AMAM TODAY! The AMAM will be held at the Sheraton Grand Sacramento (special rates available!), Saturday and Sunday, March 14-15, 2020 followed by Family Medicine Lobby Day on Monday, March 16, during which you’ll have an opportunity to […]
Despite last minute changes to the bill that weakened some enforcement provisions, CAFP applauded the Governor for signing SB 276, a bill to improve and prevent fraud in physician-issued vaccine exemptions. The first effects of that law will be felt in 2020, as physicians who issue five or more exemptions will have their records reviewed […]
