Board revives EsperanzaCare pilot to restore basic primary care for residents losing Medi‑Cal coverage
Monterey County voted to reestablish a 12‑month EsperanzaCare pilot to provide primary care, limited specialty services, pharmacy and diagnostics to up to 500 residents starting July 1, 2026, in response to federal/state changes that will reduce Medi‑Cal eligibility. The board directed county health staff and Natividad Medical Center to collaborate on cost and funding options.
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The board voted Jan. 27 to reestablish a one-year pilot of EsperanzaCare to restore limited primary-care services to residents who will lose Medi‑Cal eligibility due to recent federal changes. County health staff and Natividad Medical Center recommended a 12‑month pilot for 500 members that would cover primary care, pharmacy, labs, radiology and limited specialty services; estimated start date is July 1, 2026; projected initial pilot cost is in the $0.5–1.0 million range.
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