About Affordability
Our nation’s health care system is financially inaccessible for too many people — especially in California where the cost of living is second-highest in the country. Hospitals, a pillar of the system and often the largest employer in their communities, understand the challenges and have been working for years to slow the rate of growth in health care spending. But making a real difference for Californians will take an equal effort from others: insurance companies, pharmaceutical companies, doctors, government agencies, labor unions, and more. California’s hospitals stand ready to do their part and are eager to work with other stakeholders to tackle this challenge.
CHA Convenes Hospital Leaders to Share Need for Legislative Support to Preserve Vital Services
On April 9, the California Hospital Association (CHA) convened a gathering in Sacramento of critical access hospital (CAH) leaders, legislators, and staff in support of Senate Bill (SB) 1423, which aims to stabilize health care services in rural, remote communities.
CHA Issues Alert Ahead of OHCA Hearing
Earlier this week, the California Hospital Association (CHA) issued an alert urging members to testify at the Office of Health Care Affordability (OHCA) board meeting on April 24. With the board’s final decision on a spending target expected at either the April 24 or May 22 board meeting, it is crucial that hospital voices continue to be heard. The board is currently considering two CHA-supported revisions to the proposed 3%, five-year spending growth target: an adjustment to account for population aging and a glide path to phase the target down over time. Members are encouraged to join the meeting in person or virtually.
5 Things To Know: Office of Health Care Affordability, Medi-Cal Budget Request, Veterans in Suicidal Crisis, Empath Unit Deadline Extended, Behavioral Health Playbook
OFFICE OF HEALTH CARE AFFORDABILITY: The California Hospital Association (CHA) has developed a web page for the new Office of Health Care Affordability. The web page contains background information on the office’s main responsibilities and implementation timelines. It will be updated as new information becomes available. Contact Ben Johnson at bjohnson@calhospital.org with any questions.