ArrowCare provides affordable health care
ArrowCare, the County’s Low Income Health Program, was implemented on Jan. 1, 2012 as a bridge to health care reform. Members enrolled in ArrowCare will automatically transition into the state’s Medi-Cal program on Jan. 1, 2014.
ArrowCare provides qualified residents with health coverage that includes primary and preventive services, inpatient hospitalization, outpatient specialty services, pharmaceuticals, mental health services, and emergency services and transportation.
In addition, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center (ARMC) developed a case management department that enlists registered nurses who help patients transition through the levels of care. The goal is to coordinate care efforts and improve patient outcomes, to reduce health care costs.
In June, the United States Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. This ruling supports efforts San Bernardino County is taking to extend medical benefits to qualified residents. The Section 1113 Demonstration Waiver with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services gave counties throughout the State the opportunity to develop coverage programs, in advance of health reform, for individuals who will qualify for Medicaid (called Medi-Cal in California).
The County began ArrowCare through ARMC with a goal to register 20,000 members into the program. To date, 18,843 residents are enrolled. ARMC staff has also attended numerous community events to provide program information to residents who may qualify.
To learn more about ArrowCare and how you or your family may qualify call the Eligibility Service Center at (877) 410-8829 or visit the ArrowCare website at www.arrowcare.org. --Ron Boatman, ARMC Assistant Hospital Administrator
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