Health Care

Family, friends and dignitaries paid their final respects to Ovarie "OV" Smith on March 22nd at Trinity Baptist Church.

 Smith was the greatest advocate and crusader for people who suffered from mental disabilities, and a woman who commanded the attention of elected officials for more than 50 years passed away on March 14. She was 99 years old.

Smith was responsible for founding the building that currently houses Willing Workers Inc. in 1965. The non-profit work, activity, behavioral and educational center cares for individuals who have been hospitalized for 10-15 years.

A newly proposed bill aims to give people with serious and terminal illnesses more say in their care plan and provide Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement to healthcare professionals for holding discussions about a patient's goals, illness and treatment options.

The Care Planning Act of 2013 would encourage people to consult with a healthcare team, faith leaders, family members and friends to devise a care plan. It would also put structures in place to ensure providers focus on the patients' preferences.

Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43) will host a roundtable discussion and update on California's implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). As the October 1st start date for ACA open enrollment rapidly approaches, Congresswoman Waters will be joined by key stakeholders from both public and private sector organizations that will play primary roles in successful implementation. The roundtable is invitation-only and will take place at the Lawndale Community Center. Members of the news media are invited to attend.