Balto Health Spearheads Medi-Cal Expansion Support in California

Introduction

In a landmark move, California is expanding Medi-Cal to encompass a wider demographic, including undocumented immigrants. Balto Health is at the forefront of this transformation, leveraging lessons from the recent Medi-Cal expansion to enhance healthcare access for all, particularly in the Latino community.

Medi-Cal Expansion: A New Horizon

California's bold steps in expanding Medi-Cal are pivotal for inclusive healthcare. The expansion, detailed in a comprehensive report by the Latino Policy & Politics Institute, now includes undocumented adults aged fifty and above, with further plans to cover adults between twenty-six and forty-nine by 2024. Balto Health is aligning its services to this progressive vision, ensuring every eligible individual can access quality healthcare.

The Latino Community: At the Core of Medi-Cal Expansion

Latino immigrants, comprising a significant portion of California's undocumented population, are central to this expansion. The report highlights that 85.9% of undocumented immigrants in California are Latino, many of whom live below the federal poverty level. Balto Health recognizes the critical need to support these communities, many of whom face language and technology barriers when accessing healthcare services.

Overcoming Barriers: Balto Health's Approach

1. Technology and Language Assistance:We're implementing solutions to bridge the digital divide, helping clients navigate online healthcare systems, a significant hurdle highlighted in the report.Our multilingual staff addresses the language barriers faced by many in the Latino community, ensuring clear communication and ease in accessing Medi-Cal services.
2. Addressing Immigration Concerns:Understanding the fear and misinformation around immigration status and public charge rules, Balto Health is committed to providing confidential and respectful service, dispelling fears about eligibility and enrollment.
3. Expanding Coverage:We support policy recommendations to extend coverage to those with incomes above 138% of the federal poverty level through subsidized health plans, ensuring no one is left out due to financial constraints.

The Road Ahead: Balto Health's Commitment

As California embarks on this expansion journey, Balto Health pledges to be a guiding light. We're committed to:

• Ensuring all low-income residents, irrespective of immigration status, gain healthcare coverage.
• Working alongside government and community partners to overcome technological, linguistic, and immigration barriers.
• Advocating for policy changes that make healthcare more accessible and inclusive.

Conclusion

At Balto Health, we're not just adapting to California's Medi-Cal expansion; we're leading the way. Our mission is clear: to ensure that healthcare is a right, not a privilege, for every Californian. Join us as we embrace a future where healthcare equity is the norm, not the exception.