This workshop will highlight two examples of how providers enhanced their services through the utilization of Medicaid funded services. In 2022, with seed funding from Cedars-Sinai, and support from HealthNet, CCF launched its Cal AIM cohort. The cohort was comprised of 11 homeless service providers across LA County to provide education and analysis of organizational readiness to bill Medi-Cal for the new homeless support services billable via Medi-Cal under the new Cal AIM waiver. At the end of the 2-year cohort, the goals are now to elevate current successes, challenges, learnings and needs related to each organization’s engagement with the state-wide program and mobilizing funders to invest in CBO capacity.

Additionally, this session will provide an overview of Enhanced Care Management (ECM) services offered through California’s Medicaid system. Services provided through this program are in ADDITION to typical case management and caseloads, creating an overlapping structure. With the infusion of additional funding, the program has expanded its specialized services while reducing caseloads and allowing for more personalized care to the most vulnerable tenants. The team’s focus on comprehensive medical care coordination – including but not limited to, in-home support, medical, psychological, complex social factors, and hospice services – addresses critical barriers that traditional housing programs often overlook. With the specialized team of Lead Care Managers ECM plays a pivotal role in advancing the Housing First model by addressing the elements of care that make Housing First model possible.