Latest KFF Health News Stories
Without Obamacare Penalty, Think It’ll Be Nice To Drop Your Plan? Better Think Twice
If you’re among the millions of people expected to forgo health insurance next year when the Affordable Care Act tax penalty goes away, the financial consequences could be dire if you need unexpected medical care.
Time For That Colonoscopy? Probe Your Doc First On How The Scopes Are Cleaned
Millions of Americans undergo procedures each year requiring medical scopes, but there’s growing concern about the risk of infection from dirty devices. Be prepared to ask questions — and bail if you’re not satisfied with the answers.
When Erratic Teenage Behavior Means Something More
Teenagers can be volatile and moody, but there are some specific signs that separate typical adolescent behavior from potentially serious mental health problems.
Tax-Funded Mental Health Programs Not Always Easy To Find
Revenue from California’s Mental Health Services Act has funded billions of dollars in mental health programs across the state, but finding out what’s available — and to whom — could be a challenge for consumers.
Staying Alive: How To Fight An Opioid Addiction
First of all, make sure you have an overdose reversal drug handy. Then prepare for years of vigilance and long-term medication.
Family Crisis Or New Joy? Get Paid Time Off For It
California’s family leave program allows people to get time off to care for a new child or sick relative. The wage replacement rate rises this year.
Giving Medicaid Enrollees Something To Smile About
More than 7 million California adults enrolled in Medi-Cal regained coverage for critical dental care, including crowns and partial dentures, this month.
Problems With Your Hospital Care? Speak Up!
If you’re in the hospital and aren’t happy with how they are treating you, here are some simple steps to improve your situation.
For Millions of Insured Americans, State Health Laws Don’t Apply
Many states have adopted strong consumer regulations, but they don’t protect the millions of Americans with a specific type of job-based coverage.
Leap Of Faith: Will Health Care Ministries Cover Your Costs?
Sharing ministries are based on biblical principles and are not the same as commercial insurance. They are not legally binding and may not cover some common medical expenses.
California Joins States That Protect Patients Against Nasty Surprise Bills
A California law that takes effect July 1 prohibits out-of-network charges if you visit a medical facility that’s in your health plan’s network. New York and Florida also offer strong consumer protections.
Caring For A Loved One? Care For Yourself, Too
Tending to somebody you love who has a debilitating condition can be physically and emotionally overwhelming. Here are some tips and resources to help you stay strong.
How To Ease The Financial Pain Of High-Deductible Health Plans
You might save money on premiums with a high-deductible health plan only to find you’re spending more on the back end. These tips will help you minimize your expenses for medical treatment and prescriptions.
In Pain? Many Doctors Say Opioids Are Not The Answer
The opioid addiction crisis has led to a crackdown on prescriptions for chronic pain patients, who are increasingly given less addictive painkillers along with referrals for acupuncture, physical therapy, massage and even yoga.
¿Pagar o no pagar? Qué hacer con la multa por no tener seguro de salud
La promesa de los republicanos de revocar y reemplazar la Ley de Cuidado de Salud Asequible ha generado confusión entre los consumidores: al hacer la declaración de impuestos, ¿hay que pagar o no la multa si no se tuvo seguro en 2016?
To Pay Or Not To Pay – That Is The Question
With the future of Obamacare up in the air, many consumers are wondering if they must comply with the tax requirements related to the law, including whether to pay the penalty for being uninsured.
New Rules to Limit ‘Death Fees’ For California Medicaid Enrollees
Medi-Cal’s controversial program to go after your assets when you die will be significantly curtailed, but some enrollees could be hit by new claims.
Immigrant Health Care Under A Cloud Of Uncertainty
With Trump headed for the White House, many immigrants in California are worried not just about their legal status but about their health care options.
No Immediate Changes To Your Obamacare Coverage
Despite President-elect Donald Trump’s promise to repeal the Affordable Care Act, state officials and advocates say Californians’ health plan is safe for now.
Reducir el shock del Obamacare
Con los grandes aumentos en las primas que se avecinan, la flexibilidad al elegir un plan de salud puede ser la clave para proteger su bolsillo.
