The California Department of Health Services (DHCS) announced an investment of $144 million in Medi-Cal services to 145 Enhanced Care Management (ECM) and Community Supports organizations and providers that will help create a more coordinated, person-centered and equitable Medi-Cal system for millions of low-income Californians.
“These investments advance the goals of the broader Medi-Cal transformation by building the capacity and infrastructure of providers working to improve health outcomes for Medi-Cal members,” said DHCS Director Michelle Baass.
It is important to note that both ECM and Community Supports serve the most in-need Medi-Cal managed care members and are anchored in the community, where services can be delivered in-person by community-based organizations (CBOs) and providers.
“These investments further our goals of integrating our delivery system with CBOs and providers who understand the health care and health-related social needs of our Medi-Cal members,” said Susan Philip, DHCS Deputy Director of Health Care Delivery Systems. “We know that these organizations are critical partners in providing whole-person care and building an equitable delivery system.”
The announced investments, DHCS said, will focus on: breaking down traditional walls of health care, extending beyond hospitals and health care facilities into communities, introducing better ways to coordinate care, and providing high-need members with in-person care management where they live.
Examples of capacity building initiatives that entities may undertake include: building capacity and infrastructure for ECM, in partnership with street medicine, to reach out and engage with children who are justice-involved, transitioning from juvenile detention facilities, or experiencing homelessness.
As well as ECM capacity development and community support services, including transitions to nursing homes and medically supported foods/meals tailored to a CBO serving tribal populations.
The announced sum adds to the CITED funding of USD 207 million announced earlier this year.
"California is making healthcare more accessible to people across the state, regardless of income. Today's investment breaks down barriers so more Californians can get the care and support they need, where they live and when they need it, leading to healthier lives and a healthier California," the governor said. Gavin Newsom after the announcement.
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