Health Net has awarded the Los Angeles LGBT Center an $80,000 grant to increase access to quality care for the state’s most vulnerable patients during the coronavirus pandemic, it was announced Tuesday.
Part of Health Net’s broader commitment to support communities during the national pandemic, the center is one of 24 organizations statewide that received funding totaling $1.95 million dedicated to keeping the safety net strong for those most at risk.
“The Los Angeles LGBT Center is the nation’s largest and most experienced provider of LGBT health and mental health services, and we will continue to help those who need us the most, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Lorri L. Jean, the center’s CEO. “Thanks to Health Net, we will be able to assist the uninsured and underinsured in accessing our quality health care so that they may lead healthier, happier lives.”
As one of California’s largest and most experienced managed care plans, Health Net is committed to ensuring underserved residents have access to quality care. By increasing Medi-Cal enrollment, education and retention support, providers and community organizations are able to better care for those most impacted by the pandemic, Jean said.
“The ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have underscored the importance of improving the health and well-being for the LGBTQ+ community, who continue to face widespread disparities,” said Amanda McAllister-Wallner, director of the LGBTQ Health and Human Services Network. “With this grant, the LA LGBT Center will have additional resources to help ensure that the LGBTQ+ community in Los Angeles County has access to affordable, quality health care through Medi-Cal — taking us another step forward in closing this gap.”
Data shows that a large number of Californians that are eligible for Medi-Cal aren’t applying for benefits.
“You wouldn’t expect that in the midst of a pandemic,” said Brian Ternan, president and CEO of Health Net of California and California Health & Wellness. “Our community partners will use these grants to find and enroll newly eligible people. With Medi-Cal coverage, California’s most vulnerable populations can receive the quality health care they deserve.”