SACRAMENTO, CA — On behalf of the Local Health Plans of California (LHPC), a group representing 16 of the not-for-profit local health plans that serve more than 70 percent of Californians enrolled in Medi-Cal managed care, CEO Linnea Koopmans offered comment on Governor Gavin Newsom’s budget proposal for 2022-23:

“Gov. Newsom’s bold move to offer Medi-Cal coverage to all eligible Californians regardless of their immigration status ensures that the state delivers on health equity by ensuring all our residents have access to high-quality health care. Local health plans are primed and ready to welcome these new enrollees into Medi-Cal and get them the care and supports that are needed.

“As health care expands to include the entirety of our state population and CalAIM broadens our service to Medi-Cal enrollees, the Governor’s proposal to grow our health care workforce is critical in supporting the delivery of care. In Medi-Cal, there is a real struggle to bring the needed clinicians into the program, particularly in many remote locations.

“On the heels of the historic waiver approval from the federal government, the Governor’s budget provides the resources to support the critical work of CalAIM, which expands the robust medical care offered by Medi-Cal to cover many supports and services that address social disparities in health. In particular, additional investments in behavioral health and housing will further the CalAIM vision.

“Local plans are aligned with the Governor’s science-driven approach to the COVID-19 pandemic and applaud the additional resources to support public health efforts. Local plans are steadfast in our push to encourage and support vaccination efforts in Medi-Cal.”

About LHPC

Local Health Plans of California (LHPC) is a statewide trade association that represents all 16 of the publicly managed, not-for-profit health plans that provide access to critical and comprehensive health care services for low-income populations enrolled in California’s Medicaid program, “Medi-Cal,” in 36 out of 58 counties in the state. With over 7 million enrollees, our plans serve approximately 70 percent of all Medi-Cal managed care beneficiaries. Our member plans cover more lives than 49 other states’ entire Medicaid programs. More here.

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