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Committee flags access gap as Medi‑Cal losses leave mild‑to‑moderate patients with fewer options
Summary
Merced County committee members warned that people losing Medi‑Cal are facing cost and access barriers that could push mild‑to‑moderate mental‑health needs to become severe; staff outlined referrals to Central California Alliance and MHSA early‑intervention programs but said gaps remain.
Committee member Sharon Jones opened the discussion by summarizing reports from providers that fewer people are seeking services amid the current political climate.
Fernando Granados reported a "decrease in people coming in for services due to the current political climate," adding that fear and community alerting about immigration enforcement are keeping some residents away. He warned that clients who lose Medi‑Cal and can no longer access mild‑to‑moderate outpatient supports may deteriorate to more serious conditions.
Sharon Jones said Behavioral Health & Recovery Services (BHRS) serves as the county mental‑health specialist and described the referral pathway for mild‑to‑moderate cases: "referrals go to Central California Alliance" and some clients may qualify for MHSA early‑intervention programs "depending on the need of the person." She did not assert that those pathways fully replace care for people who lose Medi‑Cal.
Stefani Rosas Soto told the committee that dropping from Medi‑Cal can create out‑of‑pocket costs even when a sliding fee is available: the sliding fee "includes lab work, pharmacy, dental, but there is still a cost that some families cannot afford." Committee members noted this creates a coverage gap because county services are prioritized for severe cases.
The committee discussed possible responses, including an MHSA early‑intervention Request for Proposals (RFP) to fund services for people without Medi‑Cal. No formal motion to create an RFP was recorded at the meeting; members asked staff to explore options and report back.
