California wants to expand coverage to undocumented immigrants; state regulator slams Aetna for 21 percent rate hike;

News From Around the Web

> California could implement the nation's first plan to allow undocumented immigrants to buy health insurance coverage under the Affordable Care Act, reports Politico. The proposal would need federal approval to begin in 2017. Article

> After Aetna raised employer rates in California by 21 percent, California's managed care regulator said the insurer rejected a proposal to lower premiums, which took effect July 1, reports the Los Angeles Times. Article

> Cigna says that 98 percent of its Cigna Pharmacy Management patients who used Harvoni to treat hepatitis C are now considered cured of the chronic illness. The company also credits extensive clinical management to ensure safety and physician engagement to support evidence-based decision-making. Announcement

Health Finance News

> Despite relatively dramatic growth in hospital spending over the past year and the expansion of health insurance coverage to millions of Americans as a result of the Affordable Care Act, acute care facilities still struggle with eroding margins. Article

> Two large healthcare systems in New Jersey have announced their final plans to merge, creating a mega-system that would be by far the Garden State's largest provider. Article

And finally … Kangaroos, vineyards and snow storms. Article