In this episode, Dr. O sits down with Leticia Vera to talk about what keeps people from getting health care coverage and what actually helps patients enroll. As TrueCare’s director of patient retention and engagement, Leticia sees the real-life impact of misinformation, fear and confusing applications. Together they walk through how one-on-one support for Medi-Cal, Covered California and CalFresh can turn “I don’t think I qualify” into active coverage and access to care, as well as the importance of applying before January 1 2026 or renew on time to retain insurance.

 

Barriers stack up fast. Language, transportation, technology gaps, past negative experiences and immigration worries all make it harder to start. TrueCare’s enrollment specialists don’t just point to a website; they stay with people from first question to approval and beyond.

 

Whole-person care includes food and daily habits. Help with CalFresh and community resources keeps food on the table while insurance unlocks specialty care. Simple practices like movement, hydration and better sleep still matter more than quick fixes.

 

 

Dr. O provides insight into the clinical side of that gap. Without insurance, patients often delay specialty care, surgery or diagnostic tests until problems are urgent. Referrals don’t mean much if someone can’t afford to see the specialist. That’s where TrueCare’s enrollment team comes in: they explain the differences between Medi-Cal, Covered California plans and other options, complete and submit applications, upload documents and follow up with agencies so coverage actually goes through.

 

TrueCare’s enrollment team doesn’t just hand patients a packet; they walk with people every step of the way. The goal isn’t a finished form; the goal is a card in someone’s wallet and a real appointment on the calendar. Leticia’s team also screens for food needs and helps patients apply for CalFresh or connect with local food distributions because worrying about groceries and worrying about copays often go hand in hand.

To close the episode, Dr. O answers a few of the health questions he hears most often at our health centers. For stress, he recommends deep breathing, short walks, stretching and consistent sleep routines instead of pushing through burnout. For most adults, aiming for about 8 to 12 cups of water a day (2 to 3 liters) helps prevent dehydration, but personal needs vary based on health history and medications. And yes, eating a heavy meal right before bed can make heartburn and sleep worse, so spacing dinner 2 to 3 hours before lying down is usually a better plan.

 

Need help with insurance or food benefits? Our enrollment specialists can walk you through Medi-Cal, Covered California and CalFresh so cost isn’t a barrier to care.

Ready to prioritize your health? Get your flu shot and Get Care today.