L.A. Care Health Plan, the nation's largest publicly-operated health plan, has more than 237,000 members who may be newly eligible for CalFresh, the program that provides monthly electronic benefits to low-income individuals and families to buy food. The health plan has launched an informational campaign to make sure those members know they could be eligible for this benefit which could have a great impact on their health.
Since 1974, people who received Supplemental Security Income (SSI)/State Supplementary Payment (SSP) benefits were not eligible to receive CalFresh. But a new state law reversed that starting June 1.
There is a link between good nutrition and overall health – whether it be through maintaining a healthy weight or reducing the risk of chronic illness. With 12 percent of L.A. Care's membership receiving SSI benefits, it was important to be proactive.
Between now and the beginning of the year, L.A. Care will take a number of steps to ensure the greatest number of eligible members receive the benefit, including:
- On-hold message about the new eligibility rule
- Targeted robocalls and mailers to members with SSI
- A social media campaign
- DPSS educational materials at the L.A. Care Family Resource Centers
- Provider communications
- Call Center representatives equipped with application information
The average monthly amount of the CalFresh benefit is $130. For many, it could mean not having to choose between paying a utility bill or buying nutritious food for the family. The new benefit will certainly help address some health disparities, and that could lead to improved health outcomes. That is the ultimate goal of L.A. Care's informational campaign.