Accessing Care during a State of Emergency
HCA partners throughout California, including multiple partners located in Los Angeles, stand with Los Angeles, its communities, and, most importantly, the people of Los Angeles.
The Health Consumer Alliance has created the Accessing Care during a State of Emergency resource page to share information, support, and programs for those facing barriers to accessing needed care, equipment, supplies or other necessary services during a state of emergency. This resource page will be updated to share additional supports as they become available.
The Health Consumer Alliance (HCA) offers free over-the-phone or in-person assistance to help people struggling to get or maintain health coverage and resolve problems with their health plans.
Medical Debt - Do you have a medical bill that you cannot afford? We may be able to help you reduce your bills from hospitals, dentists, ambulance transportation, doctor groups, and other types of health care services. Call us for free help.
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Keep Your Coverage After the COVID Emergency
The Health Consumer Alliance can help you access health care after the COVID-19 emergency ends in 2023. Learn your rights to keep your coverage!
California Caregiving: Snapshot Stats (2024)
Caregiving in California plays a crucial role in supporting the well-being of millions of residents,
DMHC Fines Anthem Blue Cross $3.5 Million for Mishandling Member Complaints
DMHC Fines Anthem Blue Cross $3.5 Million for Mishandling Member Complaints
California Department of Managed Health
HCA partner, Justice in Aging speaks to LA Times on Financial Hardship faced by California Seniors on Medi-Cal
A recent article titled, "Living on $600 a month? Seniors over income limit can struggle
DMHC Fines Spring Health Plan $1 Million for Operating Without a State License While Offering Employee Assistance Programs
(Sacramento) – The California Department of Managed Health Care (DMHC) took enforcement action against Spring Care, Inc. (Spring Health),
Legal Aid was very helpful and understanding and comforting, which was a relief because the health plan could care less. It was nice to talk to someone who was willing to listen and help.
Consumer denied $35,000 in health coverage for maternity medical bills following the birth of their child.
Advocacy Notes
Featuring a recent example of HCA Advocates’ compelling work throughout the state.
A 68-year old Spanish speaking consumer that lacked health coverage suffered a heart attack in August 2020 requiring hospitalization in Imperial County and then in San Diego. Facing over $300,000 in medical bills, HCA’s partner in Imperial County, California Rural Legal Assistance (CRLA) guided him through the process of being added to his wife’s Medi-Cal case to cover the cost of the services. When the county Medi-Cal agency incorrectly determined his countable income and found him only eligible for Medi-Cal with a high share of cost, CRLA filed an appeal on his behalf. Prior to the hearing, the County agreed with CRLA’s legal analysis, corrected their calculation of his available income money and qualified him for Medi-Cal without any cost sharing. As a result of CRLA’s advocacy, this consumer avoided over $300,000 in medical bills related to his heart attack and secured ongoing access to coverage and vital care.
