CCJBH, in collaboration with California State University, Sacramento (CSUS), is proud to unveil the comprehensive findings of our latest endeavor: Barriers to Improve Utilization of Medi-Cal Services Among Individuals Transitioning: A Summary of Beneficiary and Provider Listening Sessions. This pivotal report emerges from our dedicated efforts since 2019 to deepen our engagement with individuals who have lived experience (LE) in the behavioral health and criminal justice systems.
As reported in the 2023 Medi-Cal Utilization Report, approximately eight in ten individuals enrolled in Medi-Cal and released from incarceration in California have addiction/substance use or mental health needs. Further, the findings indicated a stark underutilization of Medi-Cal services for these needs. Thus, CCJBH and CSUS embarked on a series of listening sessions in 2023. These sessions, a blend of in-person and virtual engagements across the state, served as a platform for voices from the broad BH/JI population and providers serving them, aiming to unravel the complexities behind the underutilization patterns.
The CSUS Listening Session Report compiles the insights gathered from these sessions, spotlighting what is working well in accessing health and behavioral health care services, and identifying the pressing areas for improvement. Specific themes that emerged from the discussions ranged from CDCR’s enrollment efforts, the challenges of stigma, a need for increased awareness and education, as well as the crucial role of peer support. The report lays bare the multifaceted landscape of Medi-Cal service utilization among individuals transitioning from a carceral setting to society.
Click here to access the report.
For assistance accessing the document or accessibility requests, please contact ccjbh@cdcr.ca.gov.