Dr. Contreras with IEHP members and SBVC and CHC mascots

 

The Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP), San Bernardino Community College District (SBCCD), and California Community Colleges has launched the IEHP College Care Program, a first-of-its-kind partnership to ensure students at SBVC and Crafton Hills College have affordable, quality health care.

The Inland Empire Health Plan Equitable Support Demonstration Project aims to enroll all eligible students in Medi-Cal, Covered California, and CalFresh; make it easier for them to receive health care and behavioral health services; and strengthen campus infrastructure to provide Medi-Cal services. When students have access to medical care and fresh food, it helps them stay healthy, motivated, focused on their studies, and more likely to graduate.

"This means healthier families, a stronger local economy, and a workforce ready to support our businesses," SBCCD Chancellor Dr. Diana Z. Rodriguez said. "It's about building a healthier, more vibrant Inland Empire, one student at a time."

This is a pilot program, and if successful will be replicated across California. To kick off the partnership, a signing ceremony was held on April 3 at Crafton Hills College, with SBVC President Dr. Gilbert Contreras among the leaders who participated.