“It’s being able to obtain prescriptions for glasses, medication for any type of health problem, all these things that keep us healthy," Beatriz Hernandez, 26, said.
. But that won't be implemented until January 2024. Meanwhile, it's estimated that 40,000 beneficiaries have reached or will reach the age of 26 and may be left without coverage during the transition. Hernandez, who’s been working for years as a health care access organizer at the Immigrant Policy Center, said the measure is an achievement for the community.
In 2016, California offered Medi-Cal coverage to undocumented residents up to the age of 18, making it possible for Hernandez's three younger brothers to access health care services. Since Hernandez was older, she didn't qualify and went through a difficult and stressful financial situation — she had to pay $1,000 more per semester in college because she didn't have health insurance.