Image by RawpixelOPINION – Governor Newsom’s release of the May Budget Revise included a shortfall of $12 billion and proposed reductions that would have affected older adults and people with disabilities. We had deep concerns about these proposals, especially those related to health care and home and community-based services (HCBS).
Image by zimmytws. OPINION – While there is extreme uncertainty about where the economy is headed, we know this much: Gutting Medicaid does not create prosperity. It pulls loved ones out of the workforce, it lowers consumer spending, increases personal debt and weakens the economy for everyone.
Image by Alexandrum79OPINION – Without legislative intervention, an impending hike in the cannabis excise tax will accelerate the collapse of California’s regulated cannabis market, harming consumers, public health, and ironically, the state’s bottom line.
Health-focused semaglutide pens. Image by Eduardo Monroy HusillosOPINION – With the state finalizing their budget in the coming weeks and looking to fill deficits, including within the Medi-Cal program, AOM coverage could be on the chopping block. Having seen the importance of comprehensive obesity treatment with AOMs from a clinical standpoint, it’s imperative that this coverage isn’t cut
Image by utah778OPINION – Controlling costs in health care is important. But it must be done in a way that acknowledges the complexity of delivering care in one of the most diverse and expansive states in the country.
Image by JJ GouinOPINION – When used as intended, the federal 340B program can combat deep systemic inequities and improve health outcomes for marginalized communities; however, it is being exploited by bad actors and Californians aren’t benefiting.
Image by ABeritKOPINION – Plasma, the liquid portion of blood flowing through our veins, carries thousands of unique proteins. Modernizing California’s regulations will help increase plasma donations and give back to patients and families in need.
Image by Nudphon PhuengsuwanOPINION – At the start of California’s 2025 legislative session, lawmakers in Sacramento emphasized that making the state a more affordable place to live would be a top priority. One of the most impactful ways our representatives can address the cost of living is to crack down on sky-high prescription drug prices.
Image by cosinartIt’s no secret that Americans are frustrated with what they’re paying for prescription drugs. Most people blame drug companies for this state of affairs. But PBMs deserve the lion’s share of the blame.
Katie Van Deynze. Image by Joha Harrison, Capitol Weekly. When Katie Van Deynze talks about healthcare policy, people listen. At 29 years old, she serves as Senior Legislative Advocate at Health Access California, where she has established herself as a trusted voice in the Capitol community.