In South Los Angeles, Juana Dominguez warmly greeted parents rushing to get their kids from school, asking in Spanish, “Do you have Medi-Cal?” She talked with moms pushing strollers and street vendors selling hot dogs and raspados in the sunny afternoon, handing out flyers and telling them to sign up for Medi-Cal. Known for selling tacos at Paloma Market, Dominguez is part of a program turning vendors into “community messengers” to share health info.
Medi-Cal’s Historic Expansion in 2023: Breaking Barriers for Undocumented Adults
Her aim is to ensure neighbors know that, from January, Medi-Cal will help them, no matter their immigration status. California’s Medicaid program has slowly expanded to cover seniors, young adults, and kids, regardless of immigration status. Even last year, California had a lower rate of uninsured non-citizen immigrants compared to 36 other states.
The biggest expansion of Medi-Cal coverage since the Affordable Care Act of 2014 happens in 2023, extending benefits to undocumented adults aged 26 to 49. Over 700,000 people can get “full scope” coverage, including managing chronic illnesses and preventive care.
Dominguez passionately wants people to grab this chance. A KFF/L.A. Times survey showed immigrants without visas, green cards, or U.S. citizenship in California were less likely to seek medical care. Fear exists in the community, worried accessing benefits might affect chances of getting a green card or citizenship due to the “public charge” rule. Advocates say Medi-Cal benefits don’t impact these decisions, except in cases involving long stays in mental health or nursing institutions.
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Inclusive Medi-Cal Assurance by Dominguez: Bridging Gaps in Documentation Concerns
As Dominguez reassured folks on Main Street, she emphasized everyone is eligible for Medi-Cal aid, with or without documentation. “It’s not a public charge for the government.” Selling tacos in Paloma Market and on the street, she serves as a friendly guide, encouraging people to let go of worries, highlighting that Medi-Cal is here to help, not hinder.
Everyone, no matter their immigration status, can access essential healthcare services.