Did you know?

Your Right to Know about Your Doctor's Qualifications?

Effective June 27, 2010, all California doctors are required to notify their patients that they are licensed by the Medical Board of California and provide the Medical Board's contact information.  This notice may either be prominently posted in the doctor's office, or it may be in the form of a written statement that is given to the patient.

About the California Hospital Rating Service?

The site rates quality of care, patient experience, and safety measures for hospitals in your area. Use this in addition to the OPA - health plan rating system before deciding on benefits.

If you lose your job, you can keep your health insurance through COBRA (new regulations)?

You can keep your health insurance with a reduction in premium costs (up to 65%) through COBRA (federal program). Workers that were laid-off, had a reduction in their hours, or worked in small firms (19 employees or less) can now qualify for reduced premium costs, while also keeping their insurance for up to 18 months through the federal program, and up to 36 months with Cal-COBRA (California's version).

Healthy Families Program (HFP) Taking New Enrollment Applications (UPDATE from June 30, 2009)

On 9/17, the Managed Risk Medical Insurance Board (MRMIB) started processing new enrollment applications for the Healthy Families program. Additional funds (AB 1422), money from the state First Five Commission, and HFP expense cuts (including increases to premiums and co-payments) are helping to keep the program open.

California Clinics Will Receive $109 Million from Federal Grants?

Approximately 500 community clinics in California will receive part of the $109 million federal Recovery Act Capital Improvement Program (CIP) grants.

Communicate

Your needs, questions, concerns and health status effectively to members of the healthcare team.  Remember the care between you and your doctor(s) is a partnership that starts with YOU.  

Know your rights

As well as your healthcare insurance benefits (what is covered and what is not covered). Remember, the healthcare system is complicated and it's up to you to advocate for yourself and learn more.

 What is a Healthcare Advocate?

A healthcare advocate is a person who argues for, recommends or supports themselves (or someone else) throughout their experience in the healthcare system.