Healthcare providers appeal to block Medi-Cal cut

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California healthcare providers are appealing a December court decision that would allow the state to cut spending on medical care for poor residents.

The case revolves around the state’s 2011 attempt to reduce by 10% reimbursements to doctors, pharmacies and others who provide healthcare through the Medi-Cal program. The cut has been continuously blocked by judges worried about how it would affect access to medical care.

However, a three-judge panel of the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals recently sided with state officials and said the cut should be allowed to go forward.

Now, healthcare providers are asking for another review.

Paul R. Phinney, president of the California Medical Assn., said the cut is no longer necessary because the state’s finances have improved.

“We simply cannot continue to cut resources and expect successful implementation of health reform in California,’ he said in a statement.

Gov. Jerry Brown’s administration is counting on saving $488 million in the next fiscal year by cutting Medi-Cal rates.

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Court decision a boost for California’s budget

Court ruling could cut California spending on Medi-Cal

California medical group warns against Medi-Cal reimbursement cuts

-- Chris Megerian in Sacramento
twitter.com/chrismegerian

Protesters criticized Gov. Jerry Brown’s plan to cut Medi-Cal spending last year. Credit: Michael Robinson Chavez / Los Angeles Times