Earlier this week, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced it would delay adopting emergency regulations for acute psychiatric hospital staffing until June 1, rather than its original deadline of Jan. 31.
(more…)Delay in Staffing Policy Prevents Psychiatric Care Crisis
CDPH Issues Reminder on Post-Survey Evaluations
What’s happening: Last week, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) released All Facilities Letter (AFL) 26-02, which reminds facilities that an online evaluation is available to help improve the post-survey process.
(more…)EMSA Releases Updated AB 40 Regulations; Comments Due March 4
What’s happening: The Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA) has released updated Assembly Bill (AB) 40 regulations for final rulemaking related to ambulance patient offload times (APOT), with comments due on March 4.
(more…)Artificial Intelligence Briefing
Tuesday, February 24, 2026
10:00 – 11:00 a.m., PT
Artificial Intelligence Briefing – Feb. 24, 2026 Registration
California Supreme Court Blocks Publication of Unfavorable Ruling for Hospitals
What’s happening: The California Supreme Court has upheld the Court of Appeal in Los Angeles’ (Division 5) decision to keep an unfavorable ruling for hospitals unpublished, ensuring it cannot be cited as precedent in future cases involving insurers and reimbursement for emergency services. The case involved a request from the California Association of Health Plans (CAHP) to publish an opinion in favor of United Healthcare against Prime Healthcare.
(more…)Learn More About Statewide Collaborative to Reduce Hospital-Acquired Infections
What’s happening: Last month, Cal HQ — a statewide, cross-industry collaborative working to improve hospital quality through aligned action — held a preview webinar. Hospitals that are still exploring whether Cal HQ is the right fit can learn more in one of two recruitment webinars on Jan. 29 at 10 a.m. (PT) or Feb. 18 at 10 a.m. (PT).
(more…)CMS to Host Jan. 28 Webinar on Hospital Quality Star Ratings Update
What’s happening: The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid will hold a webinar on Jan. 28 at 11 a.m. (PT) to discuss the upcoming Overall Hospital Quality Star Ratings refresh.
(more…)OHCA Advisory Committee Solicits Applications for New Committee Members, Discusses Spending Target Enforcement at Latest Meeting
What’s happening: The Office of Health Care Affordability (OHCA) is seeking applications to serve on its advisory committee, which provides input to the office on topics ranging from the spending target methodology and sectors to workforce and quality standards. CHA encourages members to apply by the March 31 deadline, as input from health care experts is critical to ensuring OHCA’s policies support patient care.
(more…)CHA’s Health Care Worker ‘Right to Vote’ Act Reaches First Signature Milestone
What’s happening: CHA’s sponsored ballot measure — The Health Care Union Transparency, Accountability & Union Member Right to Vote Act — has reached 25% of the signatures needed to qualify for the November 2026 statewide ballot.
(more…)Psychiatric Staffing Ratio Proposal Would Immediately Upend Care
A dangerous and detrimental staffing ratio mandate for freestanding psychiatric hospitals that would make it harder for Californians to get treatment for mental health disorders is careening toward approval.
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