What's happening: The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has issued All Facilities Letter AFL 26-14, which outlines requirements for posting information related to the State Long-Term Care (LTC) Ombudsman in skilled-nursing facilities (SNFs).
Earlier this week, representatives from multiple hospitals and health systems had an important opportunity at the Capitol to speak directly with key lawmakers about the value of artificial intelligence (AI) tools and the dangers of severely curbing these tested and valuable supports for health care workers.
What’s happening: Gov. Newsom’s May Revision to the proposed 2026-27 state budget reflects a stronger-than-expected revenue outlook that avoids broad cuts to health care while maintaining a cautious fiscal approach that includes significant changes to Medi-Cal coverage.
What’s happening: Last week, Gov. Newsom announced the launch of a program that will provide 400 free diapers to the families of all babies born in California. Hospitals will provide diapers at the time of discharge, or shortly thereafter, such as during a newborn follow-up visit.
What’s happening: Today, Gov. Newsom released his May Revision budget proposal, which includes changes to Medi-Cal coverage along with spending cuts and revenue increases to address the long-term structural budget deficit. The proposal also includes $50 million to provide short-term support for distressed hospitals and commits to working with the Legislature on the issue.
What’s happening: On Tuesday, CHA will host an Advocacy Day at the state Capitol, giving hospitals and coalition members the opportunity to engage directly lawmakers on proposed legislation that would affect the health care field — including bills related to artificial intelligence.
This week, during the 73rd annual celebration of National Hospital Week, we are reminded to pause to consider the special role that hospitals play in our own lives and in the lives of our loved ones.
What’s happening: Following the governor’s signing of Assembly Bill 108 (Gabriel, D-Encino) last week, the Department of Health Care Access and Information has established the Distressed Hospital Small Grant Program, which will provide $25 million to assist hospitals in immediate and severe financial distress. HCAI has released the grant application, which is due May 18 by 5 p.m. (PT).
What’s happening: On Wednesday, Service Employees International Union-United Healthcare Workers West announced that the signatures they submitted in support of the measure to cap compensation for health care leaders have been verified by county election officials. This moves the campaign closer to qualifying the measure for the November 2026 ballot.
What’s happening: In a letter sent Tuesday to Gov. Newsom, CHA pressed for expedited submission of the final payment policies for the next iteration of the Hospital Fee Program. As a reminder, the revised tax model was submitted in mid-March.