$90 Million Commitment to Support the Unhoused in L.A. County in Partnership with L.A. Care Health Plan

Date: 08/28/24

Health Net is deeply committed to supporting our unhoused members through meaningful initiatives and investments. In partnership with L.A. Care Health Plan, we recently reaffirmed this commitment with a $90 million investment to aid the unhoused population across Los Angeles County.

L.A. Care has launched two pivotal programs — the L.A. County Field Medicine Program and the Skid Row Care Collaborative. With Health Net's support, both programs began in July, aiming to serve around 85,000 Angelenos in need.

Providing stable access to primary care for those experiencing homelessness has been an ongoing challenge. Barriers like scheduling, transportation, and the fear of losing personal belongings often prevent them from seeking care. These two programs are designed to bridge these gaps, ensuring unhoused Angelenos can access the healthcare and services essential for their overall well-being.

Program 1: The Field Medicine Program

The Field Medicine Program is a $60 million initiative focused on delivering:

• Preventive and urgent healthcare;
• Chronic disease management;
• Social services;
• Primary care; and
• Access to a consistent medical home.

These services are designed to reach people wherever they are—whether on the streets, in encampments, shelters, or temporary housing. Nineteen providers have been chosen to participate, ensuring a coordinated and comprehensive care system.

As members transition from unsheltered homelessness to temporary and ultimately permanent housing, they will continue to have access to healthcare and vital social services across the county.

Program 2: The Skid Row Care Collaborative

The Skid Row Care Collaborative is a key element of the Field Medicine Program, tailored to meet the specific needs of Skid Row, an area with a high concentration of people experiencing homelessness.

This program includes walk-in harm reduction services, observation beds, extended urgent care and pharmacy hours, community ambassadors, and onsite specialty medical services. A free shuttle service will also connect members to these services within the neighborhood.

Health Net and L.A. Care are proud to collaborate on these initiatives, which reflect our shared dedication to advancing health equity. We are committed to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their housing situation or social challenges, has the opportunity to achieve their best possible health.