CalOptima Health is the largest health insurer in Orange County and nearly one out of every three residents rely on it. With the healthcare system under pressure from federal cuts and policy changes, incoming Board Chair, OC Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento, discusses the challenges and shares his priorities for 2026.
Tag: CalOptima Health
Posted inCommunity Opinion
Hunn: CalOptima Health – More Committed Than Ever to Quality Care for Orange County’s Most Vulnerable
Three decades ago, thoughtful Orange County medical, civic and nonprofit leaders were concerned about the limited access to medical care among Orange County’s vulnerable, low-income residents. They created CalOptima Health as a solution. Now, the community’s safety net health plan is facing challenges again as it grapples with Medi-Cal changes at the federal and state level.
Posted inCommunity Opinion
Greene: CalOptima Health’s Decision to Eliminate Safety-Net Hospitals Harms Vulnerable Patients
CalOptima’s termination of contracts with four Orange County hospitals exacerbates the strain on an already overwhelmed health care system. This decision limits care options for up to 940,000 residents, disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities. Reduced access leads to longer wait times, compromised outcomes, and heightened risks for patients, especially unhoused and low-income individuals.
