Summary
Medi-Cal, California’s Medicaid program, is a lifeline that provides free or low-cost health coverage for over one-third of the state’s population. Access to health care leads to better health outcomes and a more effective health care system and benefits communities.
Without access to health coverage, women of color would face impossible choices between paying rent, putting food on the table, and getting the care they need to stay healthy. For many, Medi-Cal is the only way to access vital health services, from primary care to mental health supports.
Cutting Medi-Cal funding would deepen racial and gender health disparities, putting the well-being of women of color at risk. Women of color already face systemic barriers to health care due to racism and sexism, leading to poorer health outcomes and shorter life expectancies. Policymakers should strengthen Medi-Cal to ensure equitable access to health care.
