QueensCare Health Centers hosted “Bridging the Gaps: Community Health Event and Press Conference” presented by L.A. Care Health Plan, on August 11th at Belvedere Park Lake, East LA Civic Center, to celebrate the historic expansion of Universal Access to Healthcare for all, National Health Center Week, and QHC’s participation in the PRACTICE Grant Initiative.
During the press conference, notable speakers including the Honorable State Senator María Elena Durazo, State Assemblymember Miguel Santiago, QHC’s CEO Eloisa Perard and CHIRLA’s CEO Angelica Salas shared their insights. State Senator Durazo succinctly captured the significance of the event by stating, “This closes the eligibility gap for immigrants.”
The press conference focused on the challenges that immigrants have faced in obtaining preventative medical care, often resorting to expensive emergency care. A pivotal change to Medi-Cal will take effect on January 1, 2024, enabling individuals aged 26-49 to receive Medi-Cal coverage. This change effectively bridges the gap in coverage, as this was the final age group that previously did not qualify for Medi-Cal care. Consequently, all individuals in California will now have access to medical coverage, regardless of their age or immigration status.
In addition to the press conference, the “Bridging the Gaps” event featured a community health fair with support and participation from various community partners, including State Senator María Elena Durazo’s Office, Assemblymember Miguel Santiago, Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda L. Solis’ office, CHIRLA, L.A. Care, Health Net, Dream Center, the Orphaned Earring, Mexican American Opportunity Foundation (MAOF), Cure, Kheir Clinic, Hillsides, Blue Shield of California Promise Health Plan, QueensCare, Ventanilla de Salud – Mexican Consulate General in Los Angeles, Pathways LA, Central City Neighborhood Partners (CCNP), California Women, Infants & Children (WIC), Braille Institute, Black Aids Institute, CCG Adelante Insurance Services, Alignment Healthcare, and more.
Attendees at the health fair had the opportunity to engage in educational workshops centered around Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), Toxic Stress, and mindfulness, receive preventative health screenings, access valuable resources, enjoy music, savor healthy refreshments, and even receive giveaways.
QueensCare Health Centers is grateful to “Bridging the Gaps” sponsors who help to ensure equitable healthcare access for the underserved communities of Los Angeles.