California Proposition 35: Boosting Access to Care for Medi-Cal Patients

Ensuring Sustainable Healthcare Funding and Improved Access for Medi-Cal Patients

California voters will decide on Proposition 35 in the upcoming November election. This proposition aims to improve access to healthcare for Californians covered by Medi-Cal, the state's Medicaid program.

35 proposes a permanent tax on health insurance providers like Anthem Blue Cross and L.A. Care. These organizations provide or arrange health services for a monthly payment, often under the Medi-Cal program, California’s Medicaid initiative. The tax revenue, estimated to generate between $6 billion and $9 billion annually through 2026, would be earmarked specifically for healthcare services, preventing lawmakers from diverting these funds for other purposes.

California has expanded Medi-Cal eligibility to include residents meeting income criteria, regardless of immigration status. However, healthcare providers and advocacy groups argue that the state’s reimbursement rates under Medi-Cal are insufficient. Proposition 35 aims to address this by ensuring that the MCO tax revenue increases these rates, thereby improving access to care and reducing patient wait times.

Key Provisions of Proposition 35

1. Dedicated Funding: The measure mandates that tax revenues be used to enhance reimbursement rates for healthcare providers, fund training for healthcare workers, and cover general Medi-Cal costs.

2. Prevention of Fund Diversion: It limits lawmakers' ability to reroute these funds, requiring a three-quarters majority in both legislative houses to amend the measure.

3. Advisory Committee: A new committee, including representatives from physicians, hospitals, clinics, and labor groups, will advise on the allocation of the tax revenues.

For physicians in Los Angeles County, Proposition 35 represents a crucial investment in healthcare infrastructure and access to care. The increased funding will help expand services and ensure that more Medi-Cal patients receive timely care.

Benefits for Physicians

• Increased Reimbursement Rates: Boosting Medi-Cal reimbursement rates is essential to prevent provider shortages and long wait times for patients.

• Training and Education: The measure includes funding for graduate medical education and loan repayment programs, encouraging more physicians to serve Medi-Cal patients.

• Comprehensive Care: Enhanced funding will support broader healthcare services, from preventive care to specialty treatments.

The Coalition to Protect Access to Care, including the California Hospital Association, California Medical Association, and Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California, strongly supports Proposition 35. Both the California Democratic and Republican parties endorse the measure, underlining its bipartisan appeal.

Proposition 35 is a critical measure for California’s healthcare future, particularly for Medi-Cal providers and patients. By securing dedicated funding and preventing the diversion of these funds, it promises to enhance healthcare access and quality. For physicians in Los Angeles County, this measure will provide the necessary resources to meet the growing demands of Medi-Cal patients, ensuring a healthier and more robust healthcare system for all.