County Medical Rule Scares Off Potential Recipients

Maureen Cavanaugh : It's meant as a safety net for people who need health care but can't qualify for other programs. But San Diego's County Medical Services seems to be tangling applicants in that net with a new, controversial requirement.

Critics say it's always been too hard to apply for County Medical Services assistance and they say, too few people are accepted into the program. Now, the requirement that applicants allow the county to place a lien on their houses seems to be a deal-breaker for some ailing people who need the help but don't want to lose their homes.

Guest

• Amita Sharma , KPBS investigative reporter.