UNAC/UHCP’s legislative team has worked tirelessly to protect and promote the interests of our members and patients in Sacramento. This hard work has paid off with major developments on bills impacting physician assistants, the individual health insurance market, and the special recognition of nurses as a vital component of our health care system.
The Physician Assistant Practice Act (SB 1069 – Pavley) unanimously passed the Senate Floor and cleared two of three Assembly committees. If passed by the Assembly and signed by the Governor, SB 1069 would clarify various inconsistencies and omissions in existing law by allowing PAs to order durable medical equipment; certify disability for purposes of unemployment insurance eligibility; approve, sign, modify or add to a treatment plan for home health or personal care services; and conduct specified physical examinations and sign corresponding certificates or forms. UNAC/UHCP legislative representatives will continue to work towards the passage of this important legislation.
The California State Senate passed legislation (SB 890 – Alquist) to reform the individual insurance market by providing transitional consumer protections in anticipation of the full implementation of the new federal health insurance reform law by 2014. UNAC/UHCP supports this legislation because it “prohibits lifetime and annual limits on basic health services; ensures coverage for maternity care, prevention benefits and home health; and establishes rules on how individuals are rated for premium increases.” SB 890 is currently making its way through the State Assembly. Other noteworthy supporters of this important legislation include the American Alliance of Retired People (AARP), Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, and the California Medical Association.
At 2:45AM Friday, May 11, UNAC/UHCP and the Coalition of Unions reached a tentative agreement with Kaiser covering 95,000 Kaiser employees across the country. Details to come.
Beverly RNs voted by 96% to approve a first contract on May 2, 2012 after a year long battle to secure wage increases, grievance and arbitration, and a voice in patient care.
“SB 1246 will help Registered Nurses provide safe patient care without worrying about hospitals cutting corners and jeopardizing the health of a patient,” said Barbara Blake, RN, State Secretary/Treasurer of UNAC/UHCP.
