Coalition of Community Health Clinics in L.A. Offer ACA Information
Eight community health clinics in the southern Los Angeles region are working to inform low-income residents about health care reform efforts, HealthyCal reports.
Background on Coalition
The Southside Coalition of Community Health Centers was formed nine years ago so that certain clinics in the region could better coordinate services and improve care for low-income residents.
The coalition includes:
- Central City Community Health Center;
- Eisner Pediatric & Family Medical Center;
- St. John's Well Child & Family Center;
- South Bay Family Health Care;
- South Central Family Health Center;
- T.H.E. Clinic;
- UMMA Community Clinic; and
- Watts Healthcare Corporation.
Felix Aguilar -- CEO and president of UMMA Community Clinic -- said, "We recognize that the benefits of collaboration outweigh the benefits of competition."
Discussion of Health Reform
Members of the coalition have offered community members information about the Affordable Care Act for the past two years.
Currently, two community health workers employed by the coalition visit clinics daily and hand out ACA-related information while answering questions.
According to Olivia Mendez, a community health worker, one of the most common questions asked is how the ACA will affect undocumented immigrants living in the area.
Mendez said, "We talk about everything," adding, "Our goal is to reach more people" (Fulton, HealthyCal, 6/20). This is part of the California Healthline Daily Edition, a summary of health policy coverage from major news organizations. Sign up for an email subscription.