J&D Benefits Perspective

California HealthCare Foundation's Webpage Covering California's Health Insurance Act of 2003 (SB2)

The California HealthCare Foundation webpage provides an extensive review of the Health Insurance Act of 2003 (SB 2) and the implications for California employers. The webpage provides a subscription e-mail notification service for SB2 updates. A voter referendum to repeal SB2 has gathered enough signatures to qualify for the November ballot.

New California Legislation Impacts Member Notification

AB 1286 Enacted in California

A new California law will have an impact on HMO plan notifications and procedures regarding provider terminations. These changes apply to both hospitals and medical group/IPA physician contracts. Please read the information below which outlines the changes Aetna is making related to provider terminations.

California Supreme Court Upholds State Law Requiring Coverage of Prescription Contraceptives in Some Cases

03/02/2004

In a 6-1 ruling, the California Supreme Court on Monday ruled that a state law that requires employers to include contraceptive coverage in health plans that cover other prescription drugs does not discriminate against church-affiliated organizations, the San Francisco Chronicle reports (Egelko, San Francisco Chronicle, 3/2). In 2000, Sacramento-based Catholic Charities filed a lawsuit arguing that the law violates religious freedom.