California Dreamin’ on Obamacare

2:24 PM, May 31, 2013 • By JEFFREY H. ANDERSON

Supporters of President Obama’s overhaul of American medicine are touting the early evidence from California’s Obamacare exchange (still under construction) as good news for their side.  But as the Los Angeles Times notes, the Golden State’s version of Obamacare will mean higher insurance premiums and a lower quality of care, as those who use its exchanges to buy federally mandated insurance will encounter not only higher prices but also diminished access to hospitals and doctors. The Times observes that “one downside for many consumers will be far fewer doctors and hospitals to choose from.”  The Times writes:

“People who want UCLA Medical Center and its doctors in their health plan network next year, for instance, may have only one choice in California’s exchange: Anthem Blue Cross. Another major insurer in the state-run market, Blue Shield of California, said its exchange customers will be restricted to 36% of its regular physician network statewide.

 “And Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, one of Southern California’s most prestigious and expensive hospitals, said it’s not included in any exchange plans at the moment.”…To Read More…..