This article was published in partnership with California State University Los Angeles' UT Community News, which has covered the Eastside and South LA since 2018.
Finding good medical care in California can be difficult. The cheaper insurance is, the less likely it is that patients will have access to the resources, medical supplies, and prescription drugs they need to live their best lives.
Proponents of Proposition 34 argue that a statewide ballot measure could help.
This would limit how certain health care providers can use funds from federally funded prescription drug programs, specifically requiring them to spend these funds on “direct patient care.” It will be. It applies to major nonprofit organizations like the AIDS Healthcare Foundation and requires all state agencies to negotiate lower drug prices.
Supporters of the measure say the government gives money and tax breaks to large nonprofit health care providers, and taxpayers have a right to know that money is being used to help patients in need. It is claimed that there is. UT Community News and Knock LA investigations document safety and other hazards in AHF's buildings, and despite this, AHF is pushing funds toward purchasing more real estate and donating to campaigns. continued to spend.
Opponents such as AHF argue that the measure is illegal and should not be enforced because both the U.S. and state constitutions prohibit laws that single out and punish individuals or organizations. Representatives from AHF did not respond to an emailed request for comment.
The proposal would also allow for statewide negotiation of Medi-Cal drug prices. Medi-Cal is a state health care plan that helps people with low or limited incomes pay for health care services.
Former Chino Hills resident Greg Mullis said he would vote yes. Thirty-four reasons support regulations that govern health care provider costs and ensure that they are spent on important purposes, including research into treatments for cancer and other diseases. It's because I'm here.
“Governments may not be willing to pay for treatments, but it's also possible that pharmaceutical companies are holding back in order to get more funding.”
Some East Side residents interviewed said the bill was very confusing, and while they acknowledged the proposal's impact, they were overwhelmed by the number of ballots and didn't have time to research them. Some residents say they don't have one or may not vote. .
Ontario resident Jason Cranmer said the measure is complex and will take time to understand, but knowing the potential impact of Prop. 34 looks like it could help consumers with their health care costs. said.
“Reducing prescription drug costs for low-income employees is a good thing.”
Monterey Park resident Norma Gutierrez is one of the more than 70% of registered voters who did not vote in the March 5 primary and is seriously considering abstaining again.
“Politicians are going to do what they want whether people vote or not. So why vote?”
Experts say low-income households and people of color are likely disproportionately affected by public policy, but ironically, they are also less likely to know and understand the issues on which they are voting. He says they are also the lowest of the low.
