My Health LA – One Year and Counting
More than 130,000 individuals who do not have or cannot get health insurance now receive free health care, thanks to a Los Angeles County program that just marked its first anniversary.
My Health LA provides primary and preventive health care to eligible residents – regardless of immigration status. The Department of Health Services (DHS) administers the program in partnership with community-based nonprofit clinics and school-based health centers.
During a press conference that doubled as a birthday party, complete with cake and balloons, at the Hall of Administration, Supervisors Mark Ridley-Thomas and Hilda Solis hailed the success of My Health LA and encouraged more people to sign up for its benefits.
“Come and get what you are entitled to receive,” Supervisor Ridley-Thomas said. “Don’t delay another day.”
“My Health LA has been a fabulous public-private collaboration to keep Los Angeles County residents healthy,” he added. “I look forward to the County’s efforts to expand the program with more dental care, substance abuse and mental health services.”
Supervisor Hilda Solis said the program is available to anyone over age 6 who meets certain income requirements. To qualify for free health care, individuals must earn no more than $1,354 a month. The threshold is $1,832 for a couple and $2,789 for a household of four. Click here for the complete chart.
“We are at a time in our country where a lot of progress is being made with access to health care, and My Health LA is a part of that progress,” Supervisor Solis said. “I am proud to say that we are the only County in the nation to provide no-cost coverage to the residually uninsured.”
Delia Balolong said she went without health care for years until My Health LA came along, and she expressed her deep gratitude for the program. “Thank you,” she said during the press conference. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
Currently, My Health LA covers hospital and emergency care, health screenings, lab tests, prescription medicines and other services. About 180 nonprofit clinics and school-based health centers provide the services, along with DHS hospitals and other facilities. Click here to find the one nearest you.
Last month, Supervisors Ridley-Thomas and Solis filed a motion urging the Board of Supervisors to look into expanding My Health LA’s dental benefits, as well as substance abuse and mental health services. They also inquired about streamlining paperwork requirements and relaxing income thresholds to make more families eligible.
Nancy Gomez of Health Access California, a coalition that advocates for quality, affordable health care for all, stressed, “Healthcare should be a right, not a privilege.”
To enroll in My Health LA, visit or call any of the community partner clinics and check if they are accepting new patients. Click here for a directory, and make sure to bring a photo ID; proof that you live in Los Angeles County; and a document that shows your income, such as a pay stub or last year’s tax forms.
