Why Is This Important?
Access to care includes the ability to obtain healthcare services such as prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of health conditions and concerns. For healthcare to be accessible, we must also consider affordability (including acceptance of public insurance like Medicaid and Medicare), convenience (location and hours of operation), transportation, and sense of welcomeness for diverse populations. While Orange County has numerous and high-quality health care facilities, participants throughout the CHA and CHIP process shared difficulties with obtaining health care appointments and cited barriers related insurance concerns. Healthcare system navigators and community health workers can help connect people with various resources related to their health and well-being.