CA AB2787

Establishes the Office of the California Health Ombudsman as an independent state agency, with a chief executive officer appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate.

Requires the ombudsman to assist consumers with health care coverage inquiries, complaints, and appeals; educate consumers on their rights; help with enrollment; and resolve problems with premium tax credits.

Mandates the ombudsman operate a 24/7 HealthHelp hotline and website, with the contact information printed on all membership cards and evidence of coverage for Medi-Cal, health insurance, and health care service plan beneficiaries.

Creates the California Health Ombudsman Trust Fund as a continuously appropriated fund in the State Treasury to support operations.

Imposes an annual fee on health care service plans and health insurers for fiscal years 2010-11 through 2014-15, assessed proportionally based on covered lives and determined by the Department of Managed Health Care and Department of Insurance in consultation with the ombudsman.