There is much to be thankful for at Eastern Plumas Health Care (EPHC) with the latest grant award of $203,151 from Providing Access and Transforming Health Capacity and Infrastructure Transition, Expansion, and Development Round 4 (PATH CITED R4), bringing in an astounding three-year funding total of over $2.8 million for the CalAIM (California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal) program. The windfall of funding comes from a variety of sources that include three PATH CITED grants, two Incentive Payment Program grants, and consultation support through the Technical Assistance Marketplace. Congratulations to our Director of CalAIM and Program Manager, Joanna Garneau, for her dedication, determination, and skill at creating, obtaining, and managing these grants. 

“It’s really something to celebrate,” says Garneau, “not just the total amount of funding we’ve received, but with this latest grant, only 17% of applicants were awarded and the EPHC CalAIM Program was one of them.” 

Funding helps the CalAIM program grow to meet the care management needs of both Plumas and Sierra Counties by expanding staff, capacity and workspace, developing employees, and supporting the purchase of hard goods like cell phones and SUVs required for member outreach and safety in the field. A recent PATH CITED grant supports the remodel of the new CalAIM office space located above the Nifty Thrifty on Commercial Street in Portola.

“EPHC initially anticipated hiring two employees and providing care management services for up to 80 members. We have grown due to the needs of our counties and now serve 120 members with a team of four. Our overall project goal is to expand our program once more, assisting us to reach our current objective of serving 180 – 200 members at any given time,” stated Garneau.  

With the abundance of these awards, reaching these objectives for the CalAIM program will very much be a reality. 

The importance of the CalAIM program is vital to ensure that community members receive the additional support they need to be successful in managing their care. For more information about the CalAIM program call EPHC’s CalAIM Department at 530-832-6622, or email [email protected]. Or if you feel you or someone you know may qualify, complete an enrollment / eligibility request form.