California s medical aid-in-dying law is back in court. Three patients with disabilities and two doctors are asking to intervene in a lawsuit challenging the law - and they want the judge to dismiss the suit. In April, a coalition of disability rights groups and people with disabilities sued to stop the End of Life Option Act, claiming it is discriminatory and "coerces" people with disabilities into using medical aid in dying. .
Health care advocates are urging Gov. Gavin Newsom to sign four bills aiming to lower medical bills, improve transparency, and make health care more accessible. Assembly Bill 665 would allow minors over age 12 to use Medi-Cal benefits for treatment they consent to on their own, while still allowing providers to involve a parent or guardian when appropriate. .
Open enrollment begins soon for employer-sponsored health insurance for coverage starting Jan 1. Most people will have multiple options to choose from. Some are complex, so now is the time to do your research. .
In the wake of the devastating overdose epidemic in North Carolina, the state s Department of Health and Human Services is stepping up to aid families and provide resources for youths battling substance abuse disorders. State data show in 2021 alone, overdose deaths in North Carolina spiked by 22%, and nationwide, teen overdose deaths rose by 20%. Kelly Crosby, director of developmental disability and substance use services for the North Carolina Division of Mental Health, said recognizing many adults with substance use disorders start using during their teenage and young adult years, it is crucial to educate and support young people in preventing substance abuse and overdoses. .