California Medical Association (CMA) President Robert E. Wailes, M.D., issued the following statement in response to final California budget:

“The California Medical Association and the physicians of California applaud Governor Gavin Newsom and the California Legislature for crafting a budget that prioritizes universal health care access and coverage for all Californians. This year’s budget officially makes California the first state in the nation to expand its Medicaid program to provide full benefits to all eligible individuals regardless of age or documentation status. We believe this is a critical step in our shared goal of ensuring that every Californian has access to quality health care. 

"From investments in our health care workforce and the public health infrastructure, to the permanent telehealth expansion and funding for key health care programs, the budget demonstrates a commitment to reducing health disparities and improving access to quality care. 

"CMA looks forward to our ongoing work with the Legislature and the Governor to continue strengthening our health care system to ensure that the promise of universal access is not an empty one and that patients have timely and unencumbered access to affordable, high-quality care.”