
$500 thousand has been allocated to pay for lab tests, radiology and pharmacy services -- things generally unaffordable for residents concentrated in the agriculture or hospitality industry. The purpose is to prevent future visits to the county hospital's emergency room. The Episcopal Diocese estimates that between 1,200 and 2,000 uninsured undocumented county residents will be eligible for the program. According to Canon Jesus Reyes:
"The word 'vulnerable' summarizes the intent of the project. The vulnerable play an important role in our society; they get up early in morning, go to work, bring resources to our tables, our fiscal well-being and our whole society. They are fulfilling their social role among us. It is important for us to pay attention to their health needs."
Monterey County to Close Gap in Healthcare for Undocumented Residents, New American Media
Monterey County Supports New Program to Help the Uninsured, KION News Channel 5
El Camino Real Support Healthcare Pilot Program to Aid Uninsured, Along the King's Highway Newsletter
Supervisors Launch Pilot Program to Aid the Uninsured, The Californian
Program Piloto de Salud en Salinas, CA, Univision Monterey-Salinas
County OKs Plan to Pay for Health Services for Uninsured, Monterey County Weekly
County Prepared to Launch a Pilot Covering Gap in Health Services for the Uninsured, Monterey County NOW
Pilot Uninsured Health Coverage Program Ready for Supervisors, Monterey Herald
Monterey County's Uninsured Focus of Health Project, The Californian