California

Latest KFF Health News Stories

California Court Helps Kids By Healing Parents’ Addictions

KFF Health News Original

The opioid epidemic may be fueling a rise in the number of children in foster care. But a special family court is trying to keep families together by treating parents with substance abuse problems.

Licensing Logjam For California Nurses

KFF Health News Original

A big backlog of applications at the state’s licensing board is holding up hiring by hospitals and making it difficult for recent nurse graduates — and experienced nurses from out of state — to work.

Can I Afford To Keep My Doctor?

KFF Health News Original

Covered California says most consumers can avoid double-digit premium hikes next year if they shop around. But will enrollees be willing to switch plans if it means having to change doctors?

University Of California OKs $8.5 Million Payout In Spine Surgery Cases

KFF Health News Original

Two Los Angeles area patients alleged a prominent UCLA spine surgeon harmed them by using Medtronic devices in experimental ways without their consent and failing to disclose his financial ties to the company. Both UCLA and Medtronic deny wrongdoing.

Viejos moteles cobran nueva vida ayudando a las personas sin hogar a sanar

KFF Health News Original

El uso de moteles deteriorados para cuidar y albergar temporalmente a personas sin hogar recientemente dadas de alta del hospital ayuda a estabilizarlos de manera económica, previniendo retornos innecesarios y costosos a las salas de emergencia y a los hospitales.

Doctors Get Creative To Distract Tech-Savvy Kids Before Surgery

KFF Health News Original

Anxiety before surgery can be dangerous for kids. Medication can help calm them down. But an anesthesiologist in California has come up with a safer, cheaper and much more entertaining alternative.