Maya R. Heinert

The meeting included strategic updates on the State Budget and CenCal Health's 2026-2030 vision. Discussions focused on the implementation of CalAIM Transitional Rent, specifically addressing data-sharing challenges, system integration, and collaboration between behavioral health and managed care plans. The committee reviewed Medi-Cal enrollment and retention strategies to mitigate disenrollment, and received an overview of upcoming legislative changes regarding eligibility, work requirements, and benefits, emphasizing the need for community-based outreach and navigation support.

This document reflects upon CenCal Health's three-year strategic plan, which culminated in 2025. The plan was guided by four priorities, including cultivating community partnerships to support access to care through grant funding for workforce training, provider recruitment, and medical practice growth. It also emphasized advocacy for quality healthcare for all and elevating community health through collaboration, aligning with CenCal Health's mission to improve community health and well-being through access to high-quality services, education, and outreach.

The committee reviewed reports from the Community Advisory Board, including feedback on member educational materials, progress on population health and quality reporting, and the status of the 2025 Population Needs Assessment. Discussions also focused on future topics of interest such as Medi-Cal changes, dental guidance, and behavioral health access. Additionally, the Board reviewed updates regarding community reinvestment policies, health equity initiatives, and local health jurisdiction collaboration strategies.

The Board of Supervisors considered and approved recommendations regarding Santa Barbara San Luis Obispo Regional Health Authority, DBA CenCal Health (CenCal), concerning Fiscal Years (FYs) 2025-2029 Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) for Drug Medi-Cal Organized Delivery System services and Mental Health Plan (MHP) services delivery and coordination. Specifically, the Board approved and authorized the Director of the Department of Behavioral Wellness (BWell) to execute MOUs with CenCal for both Medi-Cal Managed Care Plan (MCP) and Drug Medi-Cal Organized Delivery System Plan services spanning September 1, 2025, to August 31, 2028. Furthermore, the Board delegated authority to the Director of BWell to make immaterial changes to the MOUs and update Data Exchange policies without requiring subsequent Board approval, subject to rescission. The Board also determined that these actions are administrative and not subject to environmental review under CEQA.

This Strategic Plan for 2026-2030 outlines CenCal Health's commitment to improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves, with a vision to be a trusted leader in advancing health equity. The plan is structured around four core priorities: strengthening provider partnerships, elevating quality for the communities, integrating for better outcomes, and advancing affordable access. It emphasizes a focus on community engagement, adaptability to the dynamic healthcare landscape, and ensuring high-quality, accessible care for residents in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties.