Health

California now is one of nine states with regulations limiting health care cost increases. Consumers won’t necessarily notice the changes, but supporters say they will make a difference over time.

California hospitals say slow insurance approvals delay care and block beds that could be used for new patients. They estimate they spend more $3 billion a year on unneeded hospitalization because of insurance delays.

California law requires insurance plans to cover medically necessary mental health and addiction treatment. That doesn’t always happen.

Two California lawmakers introduced bills intended to slow maternity ward closures after a CalMatters investigation found nearly 50 hospitals had ended labor and delivery services between 2012 and 2023.

Folic acid reduces the risk of birth defects and the FDA requires that bakers include it in enriched bread. California could extend the mandate to tortillas and foods made with corn masa flour.

Even before the ruling, confusion about abortion restrictions brought Arizona patients, and others, to California health care providers, straining some facilities’ staff.

Medical residents have a grueling job, typically working 60 to 80 hours a week. Now, early-career doctors at several California hospitals are forming unions as they press for better pay and working conditions.

A new proposal from the Newsom administration would steer more money to foster children with the greatest needs while also setting aside funds for them to pursue their passions.

California bought and distributed a quarter of a million abortion pills, fearing a federal ban. At today’s Supreme Court hearing, the justices seemed hesitant to limit access.

A cyber attack crippled claims processing nationwide, forcing doctors and hospitals to forgo payments and risk medical supply shortages.