Revenue for California's public hospitals is being threatened by the downturn in the economy as the number of uninsured presenting themselves to these hospitals increases. The Disproportionate Share Hospital programs administered through Medicaid have provided major support to public hospitals. HCFA waivers have also served as a major source for additional funding. The current efforts to ensure the continuation of such Federal support will be discussed. The implications to California public hospitals of federal proposals such as the block granting of Medicaid will also be reviewed.
Learning Objectives: To identify current and proposed policies that impact public hospitals nationwide. To analyze the implications of those policies on public hospitals both in California and nationally.
Keywords: Public Hospitals, Access to Health Care
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.