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loween this year with a special Trunk-Or-Treat in San Bernardino. The second annual Trunk-Or-Treat event is the result of a partnership between Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) and Southern California Resource Services for Independent Living (SCRS-IL) and will be held on Saturday, Oct. 15, from 5-8 p.m. at the SCRS-IL’s San Bernardino office at 1950 S. Sunwest Lane. “This is the only Inland Empire event serving our disabled community in the month of October,” said SCRS-IL Chief Executive Officer Rudy Contreras, who organized the inaugural Trunk-Or-Treat in just 30 days last year after learning the community needed a Halloween activity for children with disabilities during the pandemic.  The Trunk-Or-Treat will feature carnival games, candy, accessible spooky mazes, snacks, refreshments, community resources and a vaccine clinic.  “Last year’s event was a reopening of inclusivity, and this year, we’re building on that with more sponsors, games, prizes, booths and even more community,” added Contreras. “With partners like IEHP, we’re able to make that happen and create safe, inclusive spaces that celebrate the diversity of our community.” Attendees who receive a vaccine at the event will receive a free cooler or beach chair, and IEHP members ages 6 and older who receive their first vaccine will be given a $50 gift card. Grocery boxes will also be provided to the first 150 families in attendance. “When community partners and organizations come together and support the needs of our neighbors and communities, we move one step closer to ensuring vibrant health to those we serve,” said IEHP Independent Living and Diversity Services Community Health Representative Jose Solorzano. “It doesn’t get any better than that.” For more information, visit https://www.scrs-ilc.org/trunkortreat.  

accine clinics to remind community residents that it’s not too late to receive their COVID-19 vaccines. Events are scheduled throughout the week and include partnerships with Music Changing Lives and Never Stop Grinding Impact.   To date, approximately 43% of San Bernardino County residents are not fully vaccinated, contributing to the importance of on-going clinics and support. “One of the most effective steps we can take to keep COVID-19 rates low is to be fully-vaccinated,” said IEHP Chief Medical Officer Dr. Takashi Wada. “We’re thrilled that COVID-19 infection rates have decreased in recent weeks, and we’d love to keep it that way so we can continue to enjoy the community and public events we love so much.” The health plan will be kicking off the month of April by sponsoring a walk-in vaccine clinic at the 2nd Annual Community Easter Event, hosted by IE Survive and Sista’s Making A Difference, on Sunday, April 10, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Music Changing Lives Urban Garden (261 W. 40th Street in San Bernardino). The event is in partnership with So Cal Trash Army and Just Plant It, and will include food, music, raffles, arts and crafts and an easter egg hunt. Information on this event can be found on the official event Facebook page.  IEHP will also support Never Stop Grinding Impact’s Spring Easter Event in partnership with the City of Rialto on Saturday, April 16, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 150 South Palm Ave. in Rialto. This free event will include a vaccine clinic, game booths, prizes, inflatable jumpers, gifts for kids and adults, snacks, and more. Registration is required and can be completed by visiting the Never Stop Grinding Impact’s Facebook page.  “Collaborating with our community partners is one of the best ways we can actively engage with our communities and meet our Members where they are,” said Marci Coffey, IEHP’s Director of Partnerships. “We’re grateful for all the opportunities to work together with the community organizations and vaccine partners, like the County of San Bernardino’s Public Health Department and Rite Aid, which support our vaccine efforts in the region.” In addition to these events, the health plan continues to sponsor community clinics and events throughout the year to ensure Inland Empire residents have needed access to COVID-19 vaccines. For more information on events and clinics, visit iehp.org.   

in Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) Community Resource Centers this month for free readings and conversations about breast cancer awareness, including the importance of screenings. Bonus: The first 100 session attendees will receive a free signed copy of Franklin’s book! “If I can help just one woman, or one man, understand that even though a breast cancer diagnosis is scary, it doesn't have to be a life sentence nor equal death,” shared Franklin. “It is, however, a lifelong journey that one does not take alone, but with a village of survivors.” Franklin will be visiting the health plan’s community resource centers at the following dates and times:  Saturday, Oct. 8, from 10-11:30 a.m. at IEHP’s Riverside Center, 3590 Tyler St., Suite 101, Riverside, CA 92503 Saturday, Oct. 15, from 10-11:30 a.m. at IEHP’s Victorville Center, 12353 Mariposa Road, Suites C-2 & C-3, Victorville, CA 92395 Saturday, Oct. 22, from 10-11:30 a.m. at IEHP’s San Bernardino Center, 805 W. Second St., Suite C, San Bernardino, CA 92410 “Mammograms and breast exams save lives,” added Franklin. “Women should educate themselves thoroughly about their bodies and medical history and should never be afraid to ask questions during doctor’s visits or get a second opinion. Early detection and knowledge are key.” In addition to Franklin’s visit, IEHP Community Resource Centers will also host breast and cervical health classes, food demonstrations, and provide pink T-shirts and ribbons (while supplies last) for visitors to support or commemorate loved ones in the fight against breast cancer. “Laura’s story is an honest account of her vulnerability and how she found hope in her faith through her breast cancer journey,” said IEHP Community Resource Center Manager Maria Gallegos. “We are so excited to have Laura share her story with our communities and inspire women in our community to engage in their own wellness.” Registration for Franklin’s book reading and talk is not required and community resource center events are always free and open to the public. Additional information about the centers and their class offerings is available on IEHP’s Facebook page.  “Our community resource centers serve as a wellness hub for all who visit us,” said IEHP Community Resource Center Manager Delia Orosco. “We’re thrilled to welcome Laura to our centers and connect her to our members and communities to inspire even more health and wellness.”  

lle Community Resource Center on-site partner, is hosting housing support workshops for county residents.  These free workshops will offer residents a wide range of information on housing assistance resources, including how to sign up for rental assistance and learn more about the county’s housing voucher program. Each workshop is open to the public and will be held at the Victorville Community Resource Center located at 12353 Mariposa Road, Suites C-2 & C-3.  The workshops are scheduled from 9-10 a.m. on the following Wednesdays: Aug. 3 Aug. 17 Sept. 7 Sept. 21 By providing housing resources workshops at the Victorville Community Center, customers can learn about affordable housing services offered by HACSB and access supportive services from other community partners in one location,” said HACSB Director of Policy and Public Relations, Nicole Beydler. “Our hope is that this partnership helps to connect affordable housing and related services, and that customers will be able to leverage these services toward achieving their goals.” HACSB focuses on providing housing assistance through resources authorized and funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Through this work, HACSB is one of the most progressive housing authorities in the country and the largest provider of affordable housing in San Bernardino County. Currently, HACSB assists about 26,000 people, most of whom are seniors, individuals with disabilities, veterans and children. “We are proud to partner with IEHP to bring these housing resource workshops to the community. Safe and stable housing is fundamental, but it takes more than housing to achieve an enriched quality of life,” added Beydler. Through IEHP and HACSB’s collaboration, the health plan’s Victorville Community Resource center was also designated as a United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) EnVision Center last year. This highlights the center's ability and commitment to empower households with resources and support needed to become self-sufficient. Resources pertain to economic empowerment, educational advancement, health and wellness and character leadership.  “Knowledge and information are power,” said IEHP Victorville Community Resource Center Manager Delia Orosco. “In collaboration with HACSB and our other center partners, we can empower our communities with information needed to truly inspire positive change in their own lives.” In addition to HACSB, IEHP’s Victorville center currently hosts five, on-site partners to support community residents. Partners include Young Visionaries Youth Leadership Academy, TODEC Legal Center, Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County and the Goodwill of Southern California.  Click here for more information on IEHP’s Community Resource Centers.   

of fun into life skills training classes, then watch the positivity ensue. High Desert children and teens are well on their way to success, thanks to Young Visionaries Youth Leadership Academy (YVYLA) and its Creative Arts and Cognitive Life Skills program, which is offered at Inland Empire Health Plan’s (IEHP) Victorville Community Resource Center. A regular on-site partner at IEHP’s Victorville center, YVYLA works tirelessly to empower and enrich the lives of young people (ages 10-19) through life-building activities and instruction in the areas of education, employment and mentoring. To achieve this, YVYLA offers various programs as well as family and social resources.  “Three days a week, we bring creative arts classes, cooking and support groups for teens in Victorville,” said Terrance Stone, YVYLA chief executive officer. “Each class is intentionally designed and provides a positive environment where students learn cultural awareness, life skills and much more.” In addition to the IEHP partnership, YVYLA collaborates with school districts across the High Desert and IEHP agency partners, like Desert Mountain Children’s Center, which provides weekly teen support groups.  “Like all our on-site partners, YVYLA is committed to the health and wellness of IEHP’s members and the communities we serve,” said IEHP Community Resource Center Manager Delia Orosco. “YVYLA pours an immense amount of love, support and resources into our youths and we are so grateful and excited about our future collaborations.” Currently, IEHP’s Victorville Community Resource Center hosts five on-site partners: Goodwill, Housing Authority of County San Bernardino, TODEC Legal Center, Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County and YVYLA.  To learn more about YVYLA, visit yvyla-ie.org or stop by IEHP’s Victorville Community Resource Center at 12353 Mariposa Road, Suites C-2 & C-3, in Victorville.

ican residents through a series of local public service announcements (PSAs) that encourage navigating family health matters, including COVID-19 vaccines. Actors/entrepreneurs Boris Kodjoe and Nicole Ari Parker, currently starring on ABC’s “Station 19” and HBO Max’s “And Just Like That,” respectively, have been supporting health and wellness initiatives for years through their Kodjoe Family Foundation. Today they continue to help share fact-based health information with their community. “The truth is, our community is still being hit hardest by this virus and vaccines lower our risk of getting sick or even dying of COVID-19,” said Parker in one of the campaign segments, which were funded in partnership with San Bernardino County’s COVID Equity Grant. Nearly three years after the start of COVID-19 pandemic, the Inland Empire continues to report low vaccine rates, especially among Black residents, resulting in increased hospitalizations and deaths. “We understand the concerns our Black and minority residents have in regards to the vaccine,” said Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) Chief Medical Officer Dr. Takashi Wada. “It isn’t enough to just tell community members to get vaccinated and that the vaccines work, we’re inviting them to empower themselves through awareness and gathering information from trusted sources.” Like the celebrity couple of Boris and Nicole, Dr. Wada further encourages all Inland Empire residents to get the facts about COVID-19 vaccines and boosters directly from reliable sources such as official websites and licensed medical experts. “The best thing you can really do to support the health and wellness of your family is to read the data and ask your doctors questions, so you CAN make sound decisions regarding the health and wellness of your family,” Dr. Wada added. Topics of the “Boris and Nicole” PSAs include various messages about protecting the Inland Empire community and family health as well as encouraging residents who have doubts to visit IEHP’s COVID-19 website to gather accurate and timely information. The announcements began running on KMIR Palm Springs stations and IE Spectrum stations and will continue through summer 2023.

e Health Plan (IEHP) has organized a series of educational campaigns, community partnerships and stakeholder collaborations to provide access and educational support to unvaccinated residents. According to state data, Black and Hispanic communities and Medi-Cal Members rank among the lowest in vaccination rates in Riverside and San Bernardino counties. In addition, case rates for COVID-19 positive patients in the region continue to dramatically fluctuate, posing ongoing uncertainty and risk. “The COVID-19 vaccine is the most ‘certainty’ we’ve had in fighting this virus,” said Dr. Takashi Wada, IEHP Chief Medical Officer. “While it is possible to be vaccinated and still contract the virus, data shows the vaccine has been incredibly effective in reducing the impacts of the virus, thus reducing hospitalizations and deaths. That’s why receiving the vaccine is so critical.” Since the roll out of the vaccine, IEHP has participated in several pop-up vaccine events, including a partnership with Loma Linda University Health (LLUH) and SAC Health System (SACHS), to organize a COVID-19 vaccine clinic at St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church (St. Paul AME) in San Bernardino, a prominent place of worship for the county’s Black Community. With additional funding coming from the state Medi-Cal COVID-19 Vaccination Incentive Program,  IEHP will continue to develop partnerships with the counties, community-based organizations, schools and churches to get innovate and craft additional actions to improve vaccination rates.  IEHP will also be developing an incentive program to encourage IEHP network providers to increase the rates of COVID vaccination.   “We understand the fears of those who chose to remain unvaccinated, and we want to empower these individuals by meeting them in familiar spaces, equipping them with facts, information and opportunities to receive their vaccine,” added Wada. “Familiarity and trust are a large part of making that decision, and we’re grateful to partner with community leaders and organizations to continue building that trust.” Last month, IEHP also partnered with sister plan L.A. Care to launch an educational campaign with the help of award-winning actor Jaime Camil, known for his work on The CW’s Jane the Virgin and Disney’s Coco. The effort included Instagram Live events, PSAs and billboards that will run in the weeks to come.  “In addition to battling the pandemic, we’re also battling a bit of an info-demic,” said Jarrod McNaughton, IEHP Chief Executive Officer. “Providing our communities with factual, honest information about the vaccine in a way that relates to them personally, can make all the difference. Health care is incredibly personal, and we’re grateful to work with such an esteemed group of partners to ensure that our most vulnerable residents are equipped with all they need to enjoy optimal care and vibrant health.” The health plan will continue to serve San Bernardino County as a super vaccination site, hosting a clinic in their Rancho Cucamonga headquarters, with plans to expand operations with additional community health partners in the near future. To learn more, visit sbcovid19.com/vaccine.  

of Riverside and San Bernardino families that rely on Medi-Cal benefits. To avoid a public health crisis after the annual redetermination process of Medi-Cal resumed this week, Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) and Riverside County’s Department of Public Social Services and San Bernardino County’s Transitional Assistance Department are coordinating a first-of-its-kind partnership. California warns that approximately 2-3 million Medi-Cal enrollees statewide could lose or see interruptions in their health care coverage during the process. “The annual redetermination process is one of the biggest efforts taking place in the history of the Medi-Cal program,” said IEHP Chief Executive Officer Jarrod McNaughton. “The partnership with the two counties demonstrates our commitment to making sure Inland Empire residents have continued coverage.” All three entities are working in tandem to share data and coordinate strategic outreach efforts to ensure residents undergoing the Medi-Cal renewal process complete and submit requested information. “The county and partner agencies are ready to help residents impacted through the redetermination process to keep these essential benefits,” said Riverside County Executive Officer Jeff Van Wagenen. “We are reaching out to the 37,000 residents by mail and phone whose redeterminations are due in June. We’ve also alerted local hospitals, clinics, and health care providers. We will be reaching out to our impacted residents directly each month as their redeterminations come due.” Beginning this month, residents who receive Medi-Cal renewal packets in the mail must complete and send back the requested information included in the yellow renewal packets within 60 days or lose their Medi-Cal benefits. Members could start losing coverage as early as July 1, impacting current treatment of severe illnesses or chronic conditions and increasing out-of-pocket medical costs. “The County is committed to ensuring the health and well-being of those who depend on Medi-Cal benefits,” said San Bernardino County’s Transitional Assistance Department Director Gilbert Ramos. “With the end of the federal Public Health Emergency, collaborating with IEHP and Riverside County will help raise awareness of the actions beneficiaries must take to maintain their health care coverage and in many cases their quality of life.”   In December 2022, Congress passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act 2023 (CAA) – which stipulated the continuous coverage provision that prohibited states from disenrolling members from Medicaid since 2020, due to the COVID-19 public health emergency would expire at the end of March 2023. To prepare, IEHP has hired an eligibility team fully dedicated to helping IEHP members complete the Medi-Cal redetermination process. Each month after receiving lists of members coming up for renewal and updated and verified contact information from both counties, the IEHP team will reach out to members via text and/or phone to alert them this important packet is coming in the mail. “The County’s partnership will help beneficiaries stay informed of these next crucial steps to complete the requested information within the 60 days and ensure continuity of health care coverage,” said San Bernardino County’s Chief Executive Officer Leonard X. Hernandez. Once the packet is received, IEHP will assist the member in completing and submitting the required information, whether by phone or with one-on-one assistance at a community resource center. The IEHP team will continue checking in until the member has submitted the information by mail, phone, online, or at a local county Medi-Cal office. Medi-Cal members may also receive assistance through the county Medi-Cal office. The good news is Medi-Cal members whose household income now exceeds eligibility requirements won’t fall through the system. These members will be automatically enrolled into Covered California, the state health insurance marketplace established by the Affordable Care Act. There, they may be eligible for a federally subsidized health plan. For more information or assistance, IEHP members may call the IEHP eligibility team at 1-888-860-1296. Non-IEHP members should visit benefitscal.com.

), Loma Linda University Health (LLUH), and Help Me Grow Inland Empire (HMGIE) have joined forces to create the IEHP Early Childhood Wellness Program. The program encourages parental understanding of children’s (aged 0-5 years) developmental milestones through preventive screenings, interactive classes, helpful resources and more. Developmental milestones are helpful in gauging children’s growth and can provide early warning signs for developmental delays. “A child’s growth is more than just physical, and can be observed in how the child plays, learns, speaks and behaves,” said Jane Wang, IEHP Director of Health Education. “Parents and caregivers who know their child the best could be the first to identify any missed milestones and are an important part of the solution,” added Wang. “Bringing awareness to developmental milestones through activities and resources gives parents the opportunity to learn more about their child and how they can personally impact their growth.” Reflecting on her time in the program, Jessica Cortez, parent of Jayla (8 months) said, “By doing the activities in the program, I’ve learned different ways that can help me teach and improve her learning. If I didn’t take the classes, I wouldn’t be able to come up with the activities we’ve been doing on my own. The questionnaire gave me an idea of what to look for and what areas we need to improve.” The program utilizes the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ-3) in partnership with HMGIE. The questionnaire’s results provide parents with information about the developmental status of their child across five key areas that can be discussed with the child’s pediatrician. The five key areas include: communication, gross motor, fine motor, problem solving, and personal-social. In addition, parents are provided access to developmental screenings, early childhood education and learning material promoting healthy growth and development at home. The program also includes a virtual interactive Circle Time class for parents and their children and refers parents to supportive resources when any developmental concerns are observed. “Help Me Grow Inland Empire is proud to serve as the developmental screening partner for IEHP’s Health Educators,” said Dr. Marti Baum, Pediatrician and HMGIE Physician Champion. “HMGIE assists IEHP-referred parents and caregivers to assess their child’s development against well-established milestones. When concerns are identified, IEHP’s Health Educators immediately start working with the family to provide the child with necessary medical care and social services.  Together, IEHP and HMGIE are making a difference in the lives of young children — a successful partnership that helps our young ones be ready to learn when they start school.” The program is offered online weekly and will resume in-person interactive classes this month at IEHP’s Victorville Community Resource Center. “Preventive care and health promotion resonates at the core of our mission within Health Education at IEHP,” said Wang. “However, to truly provide wraparound care, we believe that we must continue to strengthen our partnership with our IEHP providers as well – such as leveraging technology solutions for ease of accessing screening tools and results. In the coming years, we hope to help bridge these efforts so that our young children, 0-5 years, are getting the right care at the right time, and are able to realize their full potential.” IEHP parents can participate in the program by submitting a screening request via email to screening@iehp.org or by participating in a Circle Time class with their child. For more information, visit iehp.org or call IEHP Member Service at (800) 440-4347 or (800) 718-4347 (TTY).

community resource centers for free fitness and wellness classes, health resources and more!  Air-conditioned and open to the public, IEHP’s community resource centers in Riverside, San Bernardino and Victorville are open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on Saturday. They follow all Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines and have implemented rigorous cleaning and sanitation routines to safely welcome visitors.   The health plan will also schedule supportive community events, like COVID-19 vaccine clinics and a “Family Day,” to help families prepare for their children’s back-to-school needs.  “We understand how tough supporting a family can be and the importance of making sure your children have what they need to go out in the world and be successful. We have your back,” said Delia Orosco, manager of the IEHP Victorville Community Resource Center.  Family Day will take place at all three community resource centers on the following dates and times:  Saturday, July 9 10 a.m.- 1 p.m. 805 W. Second St., Suite C, San Bernardino, CA 92410 Saturday, July 16 9 a.m.- noon 3590 Tyler St., Suite 101, Riverside, CA 92503 Saturday July 29 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. 12353 Mariposa Road, Suites C-2 & C-3, Victorville, CA 92395 “We’re looking forward to providing families with children’s backpacks, school supplies and household items at our upcoming Family Day events in July,” said Maria Gallegos, manager of the centers in Riverside and San Bernardino. “It’s truly an honor to meet our Members and neighbors in this way, and we hope you’ll visit us this summer and join in on all the fun.” Throughout the summer, the centers’ course offerings will include food demonstrations, Zumba, yoga for seniors and people with disabilities, aerobic boxing, meditation and more. “Our community resource centers provide a safe space for healthy self-expression through recreational activities, mental stimulation and sense of community,” said IEHP Chief Executive Officer Jarrod McNaughton. “Our teams work incredibly hard to provide our visitors with a variety of classes, including benefit or resource navigation, to ensure they receive the services they need, when they need them.” To learn more about IEHP’s community resource centers, course offerings and events visit iehp.org or follow IEHP on Facebook!   

lan (IEHP), SAC Health (SACHS), Loma Linda University Health (LLUH), Ezra Productions and St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church (St. Paul AME) in San Bernardino has earned a total of 22 health care advertising awards.  Awards range from Merit, Bronze, Silver, Gold and Best of Show across organizations, including Healthcare AdAwards, Aster Awards, the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals (Viddy Awards), American Advertising Federation’s Inland Empire Chapter and Telly Awards.  Aimed to provide education and resources to the region’s Black and Hispanic populations – who have the lowest COVID-19 vaccination rates and the highest virus and hospitalization rates – the partnership began in 2021 as a way for IEHP to reach and inform these community members.  “COVID hit Black and Brown communities like ours the hardest,” said St. Paul African American Methodist Episcopal Church (St. Paul AME) Pastor Steven D. Shepard Sr. “We often get looked over because we don’t have the assets or the finances that others have in their community.” With limited health care access and historical fears of modern medicine, community organizations knew that to save lives, they’d need to meet their residents where they were and provide them with trusted information, support and encouragement to get a COVID-19 vaccine. United With A Purpose The collaboration included gathering resources across IEHP, LLUH and SACH to organize COVID-19 vaccine clinics, grocery distribution events and community outreach in a familiar place: St. Paul AME Church. This work represented the shared goals for IEHP’s community partnerships with outreach and health services teams – all in support of the organization’s Mission: “We heal and inspire the human spirit.” Ezra Productions – through close collaboration with IEHP’s marketing-communication team for this inspiring story – captured the joint efforts, producing “Hope is Alive.” The public service announcement video served as a platform for the community and members of St. Paul AME Church to share their experiences about COVID-19, including acknowledging fears associated with the vaccine and the need for continued community collaboration. “We grew up not trusting anything the government wanted to give us,” said a St. Paul AME Church member, who sat next to her daughter during the interview. “I was born blind; I’m the product of the Tuskegee Experiment.” “I turned to her and said, ‘You know, it’s [the vaccine clinic] at the church and it’s with IEHP?’ and that’s when she said, ‘Sign me up,’” said the member’s daughter.  “To drive change forward, people need to be met right where they are,” said IEHP Chief Medical Officer Dr. Takashi Wada. “Heartfelt outreach, listening and partnering with trusted organizations in our community are key to making that happen. We’re grateful to continue developing and pouring into award-winning collaborations that enable us to care and support our Members in a way that makes sense to who they are as individuals.” Documenting the power of empathy, outreach and community support, “Hope is Alive” was judged by national panels who scored thousands of entries based on creativity, quality, message effectiveness, consumer appeal, graphic design and impact.  To learn more about IEHP, visit IEHP.org. Click here to watch the “Hope is Alive” video,  

’s (IEHP) Mission INSPIRE Award at the health plan’s second annual Mission Conference on May 6. The award recognized CAPSBC’s dedication to eliminating the effects of poverty through advocacy for community members to obtain knowledge and skills for self-reliance and economic stability.  In just one year, CAPSBC has supported over 800,000 individuals, distributed over 16.3 million pounds of food, served 214,415 meals through soup kitchen partners, provided 541 individuals with new rental and eviction prevention assistance, supported 389 individuals with housing placements, assisted 9,826 individuals with utility assistance, and more.  “Our agency is all about helping people and changing lives and we want to acknowledge that IEHP is a valuable partner to the Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County, and we could not do our work without that partnership,” said Patricia Nickols-Butler, CAPSBC President and CEO.   In collaboration with IEHP, CAPSBC also created drive-thrus to distribute food and household items at the health plan’s three Community Resource Centers and shared logistics and best practices for food distribution with IEHP teams to support the ongoing Member needs.  “We know the needs in our county are daunting and that in order to make our communities stronger and more resilient, it takes individuals and organizations that understand those needs and IEHP does that every day. They show up for the community and they support the work that’s being done to make this community a better place to live,” said Nickols-Butler. “Thank you IEHP for this recognition; we are humbled and deeply grateful.” CAPSBC is one of the first recipients of the IEHP Mission INSPIRE Award. The award honors providers, community organizations and partners for their commitment to the health plan’s mission to “heal and inspire the human spirit.”  “It takes a village to support our Members,” said Jarrod McNaughton, IEHP Chief Executive Officer. “Even amidst a global pandemic, our friends at Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County stopped at nothing to continue serving their communities and organizations like IEHP. Their knowledge, support and partnership are critical to our mission, and we are grateful for it.” To learn more about the IEHP Mission Conference and how the health plan is charting a collaborative path forward, visit iehp.org.

IEHP) will host a series of maternal health events at all three of their Community Resource Centers throughout the month of May.  The events will celebrate new moms and moms-to-be and will provide resources including postpartum care and access to community partner support including CalFresh. Medi-Cal enrollment support and guidance on how and when to access care will also be offered. In addition, events will focus on the behavioral health of pregnant and postpartum members. According to California Department of Public Health’s latest Maternal and Infant Health Assessment, 21% of pregnant and postpartum Californians report depressive symptoms which negatively impact the health and wellness outcomes of newborns and their parents. “We know these statistics heavily impact our members in the Inland Empire. Some studies have found troubling racial and ethnic disparities in receiving mental health care for postpartum depression,” said Ruth Villalpando Albarran, IEHP Licensed Behavioral Health Care Manager. “These events are designed to guide and assist members at every stage of their pregnancy and postpartum journey. Working together, we can help ensure optimal care and inspire vibrant health for them and their little ones.” The health plan hosted its first event on May 18 at its Riverside Community Resource Center. Additional events will be hosted at IEHP’s San Bernardino and Victorville Community Resource Centers at 805 West 2nd Street, suite C in San Bernardino on Wednesday, May 25 and at 12353 Mariposa Road, Suites C-2 & C-3 in Victorville on Thursday, May 26. Both events will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Members can register by visiting ConnectIE.org.  

es through an IEHP sponsored or supported clinic. Clinics are made possible through partnerships with community-based organizations like Loma Linda University Health, SAC Health System, St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church, Inland Regional Center, and San Bernardino County and are expected to continue to combat the surging rates of COVID-19 cases. Approximately 36,900 vaccines have been administered through San Bernardino County’s super vaccination site, held at the health plan’s corporate headquarters in Rancho Cucamonga. In addition, more than 1,500 vaccines have been distributed at community events, like Que Buena’s 2021 Fiestas Patrias community event, and church or organization-hosted clinics over the past six months. “We do everything we can to meet residents where they are,” said Marci Coffey, IEHP’s Director of Community Partnerships. “For some, it comes down to convenience and accessibility. For others, it’s all about education and awareness. We’re thrilled to offer these services and resources to residents in the I.E. and are actively working to develop additional opportunities for our teams to connect with and support the community!” With funding from the state’s Medi-Cal COVID-19 Vaccination Incentive Program, IEHP plans on expanding partnerships to ensure continued vaccine clinics. The health plan is also developing provider incentive programs to encourage physician intervention among patients, increasing vaccination rates. “The facts are crystal clear. Everyone is safer when everyone is vaccinated,” said Jarrod McNaughton, IEHP Chief Executive Officer. “While we are proud of the number of vaccines we’ve helped to administer, we still have plenty of work ahead to ensure our communities can enjoy optimal care and vibrant health. We understand receiving a vaccine is a personal choice, however the community impacts are astounding. Just as this pandemic began through community spread, it must end through community collaboration and response.” For COVID-19 vaccine sites near you, visit myturn.ca.gov.

h the community of Great Place to Work-Certified™ companies across the country.  IEHP earned its certification this year after 92% of IEHP’s 2,817 Team Members shared the health plan was a great place to work in the organization’s annual Engagement Survey. “We have a wonderful learning center, a gym and great benefits that is afforded to us. I'm proud to be a part of the IEHP family and motivated to contribute to its success in any way that I can,” expressed an IEHP Team Member in the anonymous survey. Great Place to Work Certification™ is recognized worldwide by employees and employers alike and is a global benchmark for identifying outstanding employee experiences. “IEHP’s strong culture and values have established a work environment Team Members are genuinely excited about,” said Janet Nix, Ed.D., IEHP Chief Organizational Development Officer. “Our team culture is centered around doing the right thing and is built upon strong relationships, trust, appreciation, and commitment to continually moving forward. Our annual Engagement Survey illustrates the impact our culture has on our Team Members and the joy their work brings to them.” IEHP’s annual Engagement Survey results show 96% of Team Members feel good about ways the organization contributes to its community; 95% reported having special and unique company benefits; 95% reported Team Members are made to feel welcome when joining the company; 94% claimed facilities contributed to a good working environment; and 94% were proud to tell others their place of employment.  “Great Place to Work Certification™ isn’t something that comes easily,” says Sarah Lewis-Kulin, Vice President of Global Recognition at Great Place to Work. “It takes ongoing dedication to the employee experience.” Even through the COVID-19 pandemic, IEHP’s leadership remained connected to Team Members by hosting virtual monthly company meetings, regular email updates and even delivering holiday gifts by mail to Team Member homes. IEHP employees consistently report high job satisfaction, earning the Inland Empire Top Workplaces 2020 Award and placing second in the United States Healthcare Industry. “These survey results show that our Team Members are engaged, dedicated and truly care about the work they do every day to serve the most vulnerable in our region,” said Jarrod McNaughton, IEHP Chief Executive Officer. “I am so proud to partner with them and look forward to finding even more new and innovative ways to support their continuing efforts to make a difference in our community.” WE’RE HIRING! Looking to grow your career at a company that puts its people first? Visit our careers page at: careers.iehp.org. src=" -/media/35ed3bad40144c4f8134b420c7714254.ashx?h="233&w=350"" class="" />

e teaming up this season to connect residents to needed community health resources, including vaccine access. Kicking the partnership into gear, the health plan’s marketing team will collaborate with Ontario Fury to organize interactive social media interviews, promote vaccine clinics, and more. “This partnership is a dynamic step forward for promoting community health in our region,” said Cesar Armendariz, IEHP’s Community Health Senior Director. “As families begin to enjoy events and activities again, it’s important that vaccines and health information remain accessible and top of mind to keep everyone protected. This partnership allows both organizations to engage with our communities in a fun and exciting new way than ever before, and we look forward to addressing positive health messages to our IE community and avid soccer fans!” Ontario Fury’s season began December 15 in a home opener at the Toyota Arena in Ontario, Calif., and will run through April 2022. During their season, the partnership will also honor First Responders by hosting a Heroes Night in the spring.  “Ontario Fury is excited to partner with such an amazing organization like IEHP,” said Jimmy Nordberg, Ontario Fury Head Coach. “With common goals and vision of our managing partner Mr. Jeffery Burum, to help the community and inspire others to be champions, it was a great fit.  IEHP will truly help the community and the Ontario Fury on our mission to be #ChampionshipBound!” To learn more about the Ontario Fury or view the season schedule, visit ontariofury.com.   

hild would be paying her medical school bills today. And yet, that’s exactly what Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) has done for the past two years—and counting.    IEHP awarded Hough with their innovative Healthcare Scholarship Fund award in 2020, bringing Hough’s journey from Medi-Cal member to medical school student to fruition. A Victorville native and now third-year medical student at California University of Science and Medicine (CUSM), Hough was one of 50 students to receive the inaugural award from IEHP. The health plan has sustained the program with annual scholarship awards ranging from full to partial tuition at three medical schools: CUSM, Loma Linda University and University of California, Riverside. “This scholarship means the world to me,” said Hough. “Growing up in a family who struggled financially, the dream of being able to go to medical school seemed so farfetched for so long.” IEHP created the scholarship fund to help address the provider shortage in Riverside and San Bernardino counties. “By supporting local medical students, we are able to secure their service to the Inland Empire after graduation and create a pipeline of health care professionals who are committed to serving our communities with compassion and empathy,” said Jarrod McNaughton, IEHP Chief Executive Officer. Hough discovered her passion for medicine while taking human science classes at California State University Fullerton and spending countless hours volunteering at Children’s Health Orange County. Encouraged by these experiences and several physician mentors, she decided to pursue a career as a doctor. Hough intentionally applied to only local schools so she could remain connected to her Inland Empire roots. “Most people apply very broadly—to as many schools as they want,” Hough said. “But I felt it was really important to be in this area, so I only applied to three medical schools. It was very risky, but it worked out.” Hough remembers not having much guidance or role models related to her dream of medicine growing up, so becoming a doctor didn’t seem possible. “When I got that acceptance letter,” she said, “it was really a moment of shock.”   Through the medical school admissions process, Hough learned about IEHP’s Healthcare Scholarship Fund and its goal to support local students who wished to remain in the Inland Empire. Hough remembered IEHP was the health plan she had as a child and appreciated how they promoted a mission she resonated with. She applied and earned a four-year award.   “After receiving the scholarship, a huge weight was lifted off of my shoulders,” said Hough. “Thank you so much IEHP, from the bottom of my heart. I don’t think words could ever explain how grateful I am.” The cost for medical school in California has been on an upward trend since 2013, increasing about $1,500 annually and currently averaging a total of $218,792. This puts the dream of being a physician even further out of reach for many IE students, and deeply impacts the ongoing provider shortage in the region. “Bridging the gap between aspiring IE medical professionals and local medical schools to serve the region’s most vulnerable populations is what this scholarship program was designed to do,” said McNaughton. “We are absolutely elated to support Jordan and our HSF award recipients on their path to becoming physicians and are especially eager to connect their desire and ability to provide optimal care and vibrant health to the communities they love so very much.” The health plan will be hosting networking and supportive events for medical students throughout their medical school journey, including a dinner at IEHP headquarters on May 3. To learn more about IEHP’s Healthcare Scholarship Fund, visit iehp.org.

and support community health workers (CHWs) in the Inland Empire (I.E.).  The pilot program is aimed at reducing barriers to health care services in marginalized and underserved areas and encouraging diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). In the initial stage of the program’s two-tiered approach, the health plan will professionally train a new community health workforce in an intensive nine-week program. Program curriculum encompasses CHW training provided by Loma Linda San Manuel Gateway College’s Certificated Community Health Worker Training Program and various IEHP Health Navigator courses. Continuous training opportunities will also be offered to ensure CHWs remain equipped with needed resources. The workforce will be staffed in partnership with community agencies and their employees who may be interested in a career advancement opportunity. These agencies include Young Visionaries (High Desert), Michelle’s Place (Temecula Valley), Asian American Resource Center (San Bernardino), LGBTQ Center (Palm Springs), and the Sahaba Initiative (San Bernardino). Internally, IEHP’s Community Health Managers Delia Orosco, Maria Gallegos and Carmen Ramirez are actively collaborating to support the needs of the program. “To truly encourage DEI in the I.E., each organization is focused on understanding and meeting the needs of a specific population. By working together to share knowledge and resources, we can better meet those needs and enhance wellness throughout the region,” said Orosco. DEI continues to be the focus of program’s second tier. This includes IEHP’s work to lead external CHW assignments that empower residents by teaching them how to utilize health care benefits, helping them navigate benefit services, and increasing their ability to advocate for themselves in their community. “Our hope is that we can collectively improve regional health outcomes by supporting communities that have been historically underserved and marginalized with resources and culturally relevant supports,” said Dr. Gabriel Uribe, IEHP’s Director of Community Health. “Health literacy is essential to DEI work, and no one should suffer because they are not aware of available services. This community health workforce will fill in those gaps and serve as a step forward in our effort to advance diversity, equity and inclusion in the Inland Empire.” The pilot program will run until September 2022, with the goal of expansion soon thereafter.

tian Gutierrez (pronounced “IX-tian,” like Christian) has joined the health plan's governing board and will serve alongside the dedicated members who represent both Riverside and San Bernardino counties.  On Jan. 10, Supervisor Gutierrez was appointed to the IEHP Governing Board; he was elected to the Riverside County Board of Supervisors in November 2022. He is the second Latino ever elected supervisor for Riverside County. Prior to this appointment, Gutierrez served as the first directly elected Moreno Valley Mayor for seven years and was a professor at National University, served on Moreno Valley’s City Council, owned and operated the Berrybean Café, taught in the Moreno Valley Unified School District, and worked as a reading instructor at Moreno Valley College. In addition to his supervisor duties, Gutierrez is a professor at California State University, San Bernardino, and serves as a board member for Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG), Riverside Transit Agency, Riverside County Transportation Commission, Riverside County University Medical System, Flood Control, Renu Hope Foundation, the U.S. Selective Service and several other regional boards. He is also a 1st Lieutenant (CA) with the 163rd Support Group stationed at March Air Reserve Base. “On behalf of the IEHP Governing Board, I welcome fellow Riverside County Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez to the Board and look forward to his input on providing quality healthcare to our Members,” said Karen Spiegel, Riverside County Second District Supervisor and IEHP Governing Board Chair. Representing the 10th largest county in the United States with more than 2.5 million residents, Supervisor Gutierrez is dedicated to improving and protecting the things that make Riverside County so unique.  “I am thrilled to join the IEHP Governing Board of Directors and honored to be a part of an inspiring group of Board Members and more than 3,000 employees - all with a singular vision to heal and inspire the human spirit to make the Inland Empire a healthier place for all,” said Supervisor Gutierrez. “Within this role, I look forward to ensuring IEHP continues to provide access to quality and affordable health coverage to our working families across the region.” Gutierrez joins the health plan's governing board, which is comprised of four elected county supervisors and three appointed members of the public. Current members include: Chair Karen Spiegel, Riverside County Second District Supervisor; Vice-Chair Curt Hagman, San Bernardino County Fourth District Supervisor; Dawn Rowe, Chair of the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors and Third District Supervisor; Daniel P. Anderson, President and CEO of Riverside Community Health Foundation; Andrew Williams, Joint County Public Member; and Eileen Zorn, former health care clinician and educator. Since the establishment of IEHP's Governing Board, the body has greatly supported and influenced the development and implementation of CalAIM, the Housing Initiative, Behavioral Health Integration and more. "We are very excited to welcome Supervisor Gutierrez to our Governing Board and look forward to his insight in our ongoing commitment to meet our members where they are to provide Optimal Care and Vibrant Health," said Jarrod McNaughton, IEHP Chief Executive Officer.  

forces this season to bring health and wellness resources, including COVID-19 education and vaccine information, to the campus community and broader audiences. Utilizing a multi-channel approach, the organizations will serve as an access point to timely and accurate health information for students, staff and the community during the ongoing pandemic. “We are excited to welcome IEHP as a partner to help us continue our mission of preparing our student-athletes for opportunities in life through sport,” said Wesley Mallette, Director of Intercollegiate Athletics. “In partnership with IEHP, we hope to educate and inform all Highlanders about the amazing resources IEHP provides and their positive impact on lives.” As a corporate sponsor, IEHP will be cheering for UCR’s basketball, baseball and softball home games, and will be sponsoring a basketball game on February 17, celebrating Black History Month. At this event, Michael Deering, IEHP’s Vice President of Innovation, Acceleration and Diversity, will be announcing the UCR Highlanders’ starting lineup. Also featured in the partnership is the health plan’s collaborative work with UCR’s Center for Healthy Communities and School of Medicine and will be aired on videoboard screens before games—appearing on ESPN+ when Highlander games are televised. “UCR’s commitment to public health is incredibly evident in all they do,” said Jarrod McNaughton, IEHP’s Chief Executive Officer. “We’re grateful to partner with them on multiple levels and look forward to sharing resources and accurate COVID-19 information so we can put our best foot forward in living healthy lives and defeating this virus, together.” For upcoming UCR game schedules and events, visit gohighlanders.com.