The Critical Role of Medi-Cal
Medi-Cal is a lifeline for 15 million Californians, covering 43% of all children and nearly 40% of all births in the state. In L.A. County, 41% of residents rely on Medi-Cal. That means it’s likely you have a family member, loved one, friend or neighbor who is covered by this important safety net program.
But this isn’t just about numbers. Behind each statistic is a person – someone who benefits from Medi-Cal’s coverage: a child receiving a vaccine, a parent receiving care to stay healthy and keep working, or a senior being able to age with dignity. When people have access to health care, they are better able to contribute to a thriving economy.
Why Medicaid Matters
Watch testimonials from Medi-Cal members, who explain why this program is so critically important, and how it has made a difference in their lives.
The Economic Impact
Medi-Cal is more than just healthcare — it’s about economic stability. Most non-senior adult Medi-Cal enrollees are hard working individuals, from retail workers and caregivers, to restaurant staff who keep our communities running. Without Medi-Cal, their health and livelihoods are at risk.
Medi-Cal also sustains the healthcare sector, funding jobs in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities who employ thousands of workers. If federal funding is cut, layoffs in the healthcare sector would be inevitable, weakening our economy and reducing access to care. A strong Medi-Cal program fuels economic growth.
The Harm of Proposed Cuts
Federal proposals to cut Medicaid funding, impose work requirements, or shift costs to states threaten Medi-Cal’s stability. These cuts would reduce coverage, limit access to doctors and mental health services, and eliminate critical benefits like dental and vision care.
Some claim these cuts fight fraud, waste and abuse, but the truth is, they only make it harder for California to provide care. The real impact? Working families losing access to vital health services. When people don't have access to healthcare, our economy loses the benefit of a strong, healthy workforce.
View a letter to Members of the California Congressional delegation to oppose Medicaid cuts.
The bottom line is clear: a strong Medi-Cal program creates jobs, strengthens families, and fuels economic growth. We have seen it time and time again—when people have access to healthcare, they can work, provide for their families, and contribute to a thriving economy.
We recognize that Washington faces tough budget decisions, but balancing the budget should not come at the expense of working families, seniors, and children.
L.A. Care is committed to advocating for federal and state funding for Medi-Cal to maintain essential health services for children, working families, seniors, and vulnerable populations.