Bill > AB543

This bill aims to improve healthcare access for people experiencing homelessness through the Medi-Cal program by establishing a comprehensive street medicine framework. The legislation creates a presumptive eligibility program for homeless individuals, allowing them to quickly access full-scope Medi-Cal benefits without a share of cost. Medi-Cal managed care plans would be authorized to offer services through street medicine providers, enabling homeless beneficiaries to receive medical care directly in their current environment, such as encampments, cars, or abandoned buildings. The bill requires managed care plans to allow homeless individuals to seek services from any participating provider, regardless of network assignments, and mandates the creation of referral and authorization mechanisms to facilitate care. Additionally, the bill requires the Medi-Cal program and California Statewide Automated Welfare System (CalSAWS) to share data on homeless individuals, with the goal of better identifying and connecting them to available services. The legislation is motivated by stark health disparities, noting that people experiencing homelessness have mortality rates 10 times higher than housed individuals and face significant barriers to accessing healthcare. Street medicine providers would be empowered to provide comprehensive care, including medical treatment, behavioral health services, and assistance with accessing specialty care and medical equipment, with the ultimate aim of reducing hospitalizations and improving health outcomes for this vulnerable population.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB543