In this humorous assessment, Governor Schwarzenegger's proposed budget cuts to various healthcare services are statistically scrutinized. The golden state is home to 800 community clinics that treat 3.6 million uninsured and low income patients a year. It also provides vital health and family planning services through the Healthy Families Program and FPACT programs, both of which are potentially on the chopping block. While the video makes the case for preserving these crucial social safety nets, other factors should be considered as well.
First, if California tackled the critical issues of the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) and unfunded federal mandates, it could possibly retain up to $100 billion of additional revenue to cover such social programs.
Second, if California established more precise budgetary priorities, it could better fund the vast network of community health clinics. As it is, the state spends money on a limitless array of budget items.
Third, though politically controversial, many would claim that a significant portion of these clinics, programs, and other social services is being provided for illegal immigrants, while legal citizens feel the pinch.
Fresh solutions and novel models should be critically analyzed for resolving this long-standing dilemma. The status quo, maintained by both parties, has failed to deliver a sensible, long-term solution.
An insider’s look at what's happening in Sacramento.
