California Medical Association (CMA) President Peter N. Bretan, Jr., M.D., released the following statement in response to Thursday's Senate budget hearing:

"CMA applauds the state Senate for passing a budget that prioritizes access to health care for every Californian. At a time when Californians are struggling financially, and Medi-Cal enrollment is expected to increase by more than 2 million patients, we must protect vital services for those who need them most and continue to invest in health care in the midst of this pandemic. The Senate budget invests in programs that improve meaningful access to care by increasing the number of physicians caring for Medi-Cal patients. 
 
"A budget is a statement of values, and this plan shows that ensuring all Californians have access to health care – including low-income, rural and medically underserved communities – is a core California value."