California invests nearly $150 million to improve access to health care for Californians
What you need to know: California is awarding $145.5 million to organizations in communities all across the state to support local, specialized services as part of the state’s reimagining of health care into a system that supports everyone – and that everyone can access.
SACRAMENTO – Today, Governor Gavin Newsom announced $145.5 million in awards to organizations all across the state to support specialized, community-based services as part of the state’s work to transform health care into a more effective, affordable, and accessible system.
Care comes in many forms to meet many needs – and California is committed to providing that care. The awards announced today are part of our work to improve access to a more effective health care, to support locally-provided, tailored programs that meet the unique needs of each community across the state.
Governor Gavin Newsom
The awards announced today are part of the Providing Access and Transforming Health (PATH) Capacity and Infrastructure, Transition, Expansion, and Development (CITED) initiative, which helps local providers grow their ability to deliver whole-person, community-based care. These investments support services and programs, including in-person care coordination, housing support, and other vital resources. 153 organizations across all 58 counties are receiving these funds – bringing critical, local care to every part of the state.
“PATH CITED represents a vital investment in the future of Medi-Cal and the health of California,” said DHCS Director Michelle Baass. “By empowering local providers, many of whom serve historically under-resourced communities, we are strengthening the foundation of a more equitable, person-centered delivery system. Together, we’re creating lasting change that connects Medi-Cal members to the care and support they need to live healthier, more fulfilling lives. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made and the partnerships that made it possible.”
Through the five-year PATH initiative, launched in 2022, California has awarded more than $1.66 billion to over 2,200 community providers to support improved health care management and delivery through the Medi-Cal system. All awardees are committed to serving historically underserved populations. This work has dramatically expanded access for children and youth, with a 120 percent year-over-year increase in early 2025 alone, and delivering over a million services to those who need them.
These investments not only serve Californians but also result in long-term savings for California’s Medi-Cal program, reducing avoidable emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and long-term care use. For more information about the PATH CITED initiative and today’s awards, visit the PATH website.