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ion residents, contracting with over 6,700 providers, and employing nearly 2,500 team members, the health plan is honoring this momentous milestone by continuing to embark on a strategic path forward. “In the last 25 years, we’ve had the incredible pleasure of connecting millions in our region to whole-person healthcare services,” said Jarrod McNaughton, IEHP chief executive officer. “With large initiatives like CalAIM underway and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is critical that we continue to meet our members, providers and team members where they are, so that we may effectively work together to deliver optimal care and vibrant health to residents in our region.” IEHP began its operation in 1996 with over 60,000 Medi-Cal members and worked proactively to provide coverage to uninsured children in working families who did not qualify for Medi-Cal by launching the Healthy Families program in 1998. By 2000, IEHP had become one of the first Medi-Cal only health plans in California to receive “Commendable” NCQA Accreditation and ranked the ninth largest Medicaid Plan in the United States.   With the development of several programs supporting children (Healthy Kids), seniors (Medicaid), persons with disabilities (Medicare DualChoice), and specific health conditions (like diabetes and asthma), IEHP was able to support the influx of Inland Empire Residents who became eligible for its health services through the Affordable Care Act, increasing the health plan’s membership to 1 million members by 2015. Recently, the health plan was mentioned as a model in California’s Master Plan for Aging and has contributed several ideas to the state’s multi-year transformational initiative to address many of the complex challenges impacting the state’s Medi-Cal population (CalAIM). Programs serving as models include the health plan’s innovating work around health and housing, like IEHP’s  Housing Initiative and Health Home programs. In addition to supporting transformative initiatives like CalAIM, IEHP is also working towards sustainable solutions to increase positive health outcomes of residents in the region. “While we celebrate the great work done in our region, our job as a community-based health plan is far from over,” said McNaughton. “Building and strengthening networks of providers in the I.E. to offset the on-going provider shortage and working with our partners to create an Electronic Medical Record system to better care for members, are only two of the large priorities we’re working through,” added McNaughton. “Accompanied by our mantra to always ‘do the right thing’ for our members, our mission to heal and inspire the human spirit will guide our thoughts, our decisions, and most importantly, our actions through these projects and at IEHP in the months and years to come.”

rst social worker Dennis Kaney, who served residents of the Inland Empire for 16 years before his passing earlier this month. In speaking with Kaney earlier this year to learn more about his experience as an IEHP Team Member, he described his role as "doing what he loved most”—providing individualized, quality care and support to the region’s most vulnerable Members through his work as an IEHP Case Manager.  In January, Kaney met an IEHP Member who had sustained life-threatening injuries in a car accident, leaving the Member with paralysis in their limbs (known as a quadriplegia).   Kaney, who was wheelchair-bound himself, understood the need for multi-level support and wasted no time connecting the Member to resources to aid in the massive life transition. “I believe through my work at IEHP, I am able to do exactly what I am meant to do and use my personal experiences to help someone navigate their new beginning,” Kaney said. Through this connection, Kaney helped the Member discover new ways to manage daily life, including how to travel with a chair, how to write, talk, and how to best utilize available resources and tools. This ultimately provided the Member with hope and a reminder that their life was in no way over. “A heartfelt connection provides more care to the human spirit than we realize,” said Jarrod McNaughton, IEHP’s Chief Executive Officer. “As we honor Dennis and observe Social Work Month, we celebrate the spirit of all social workers who bring courage and empathy to a world that desperately needs their light and love.”  

ers to consider assessments and support for their children. This includes evaluations to detect conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).   IEHP Medi-Cal members can receive a free autism screening at centers like the Inland Empire Autism Assessment Center of Excellence (IEAACE) or from any IEHP network provider before the member reaches age 21. “Rapidly changing environments, like the COVID-19 pandemic and the social isolation tied to it, brought significant disruptions to the lives of our youth,” said IEHP Behavioral Health and Care Management Manager Heather Waters. “Given the circumstances, it’s completely normal for children to need additional support. What’s important is ensuring they receive the right care at the right time.” Waters highlighted that early treatment and recognition of symptoms, as early as 1 year of age and before a child enters school, can result in better health outcomes. Signs and symptoms vary and can range from obsessive or compulsive behaviors to poor social skills, delayed milestones and more.  What to Expect at IEAACE “Accurate assessment, diagnoses and subsequent treatment are critical to improving the lives of children and their families within the Inland Empire and beyond. The comprehensive diagnostic evaluation process at IEAACE results in more accurate diagnoses and the creation of effective treatment recommendations, which is critical to avoiding missed diagnoses, delays in intervention and misdiagnoses with inappropriate treatments,” said IEAACE Executive Director Zachary Ginder, MD. During the initial assessment appointment, caregivers/parents and their children will meet with an evaluation coordinator for interviews and observations. Information gathered during the appointment will be processed and reviewed by the IEAACE transdisciplinary team for next steps and follow up.  “IEAACE looks at the whole child from multiple clinical perspectives to ensure we give the child and their family the greatest opportunity for long-term health and prosperity,” added Dr. Ginder. “With IEHP as our primary managed care partner, children and their families now have greater access to these services, which will ideally result in reducing health disparities within our communities.”  To receive an evaluation or additional services, members are encouraged to call IEHP Member Services at 1-800-440-4347 and ask for the Behavioral Health Department. Members can also learn more about IEAACE by visiting autismassessment4ie.org.  

red location, the Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) team member knew he had to act. “For five years, my family and I have walked in memory of my sister Melanie and to advocate for suicide prevention and education,” said Lopez about the annual American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) event. “We had been registered for months to take part in the walk and were deeply saddened to hear the walk wouldn’t be happening in the Inland Empire. I thought, ‘I know where the walk could be held.’” Lopez, an information technology specialist at IEHP, shared the event cancellation news with the company’s leadership team, who moved quickly to offer IEHP’s Rancho Cucamonga campus as the site for this year’s event. With a few signatures and approvals, the walk’s new location at IEHP was official.  So, in addition to sponsoring the event, IEHP was also a proud host of AFSP’s Inland Empire Out of Darkness Community Walk.  More than 500 Inland Empire community residents gathered on Oct. 29 and walked on IEHP’s Sixth Street campus in remembrance, hope and support of those impacted and lost by suicide. Together, the group walked 2 miles and raised more than $30,000 to fund research for suicide prevention, create and distribute education programs, advocate for public policy and support people affected by suicide.  “I take pride in working for IEHP, an organization that truly lives up to their mission,” added Lopez. “This event helps families find closure, support and hope. Helping others in our community was a large proponent of who my sister was, and I know how happy she would be to know we’re continuing to push forward to erase the stigma behind suicide and mental health, especially for those in underserved communities.” To learn more about AFSP and future events and walks, visit afsp.org.  

ew moms and moms-to-be are invited to visit IEHP’s Community Resource Centers in December for free maternal mental health events, which will offer health and wellness resources and connections to prenatal and postpartum care. Events will be hosted by IEHP’s Maternal Mental Health Team at all three of the health plan’s Community Resource Centers: Thursday, Dec. 1, 9 a.m.- 1 p.m. at IEHP’s Victorville center, 12353 Mariposa Road, Suites C-2 & C-3, Victorville, Calif., 92395 Saturday, Dec. 3, 9 a.m.- noon at IEHP’s San Bernardino center, 805 W. Second St., Suite C, San Bernardino, Calif., 92410 Friday, Dec. 9, 2- 5 p.m. at IEHP’s Riverside center, 3590 Tyler St., Suite 101, Riverside, Calif., 92503 Registration is encouraged by visiting Connect I.E. or IEHP’s Events page on Facebook. In addition to information on community resources for prenatal and postpartum care, attendees will receive baby items and will be eligible for raffle prizes. Members will also learn more about their maternal health benefits and the services they can access.  “The pregnancy process doesn’t end once the baby is born,” said IEHP Manager Heather Waters, LCSW. “Postpartum care is just as important as prenatal care. Our team at IEHP can assist you with linkage to your postpartum appointment and any additional services, such as transportation and behavioral health.”  A recent report from the CDC also highlights this need, citing that more than 80% of pregnancy-related deaths between 2017-2019 were preventable and 53% of deaths occurred between seven days and one year after delivery. The report also notes the leading underlying causes of pregnancy-related deaths include mental health conditions.  “Our Maternal Mental Health team at IEHP is serious about improving maternal health outcomes in our communities, and we look forward to equipping our members with the necessary tools, benefit information and resources they need to deliver healthy babies and remain well after delivery,” added Waters. 

eve Morgan Leopard of the Year award, University of La Verne’s (ULV) most prestigious alumni recognition.  “We consider this our Lifetime Achievement award, given to an alumnx who not only has achieved extraordinary career success, but maybe more importantly, has also greatly impacted and improved lives in their community,” shared University of La Verne President Dr. Devorah Lieberman. Selected by a committee comprised of leaders from ULV’s Alumni Advisory Board, the Office of Alumni Engagement and University Administration, recipients of the award are alumni who demonstrate a deep-seated commitment to their community and support the university with their time, talent and resources.  “Jarrod has been a transformational partner with us over the past several years in the creation of our new College of Health and Community Well-Being,” added Lieberman. “His intimate knowledge of the health care needs of the Inland Empire and his personal passion to help guide our students – many of them first-generation college graduates, like himself – into productive, worthwhile career paths was a visionary contribution to help guide our planning. As our programs grow and our students succeed, we will forever credit his foresight and support in helping form this college.” McNaughton, who earned a Master of Business Administration at ULV, has remained engaged with the university since graduation, serving students through guest lectures, commencement speeches and more.  “Maintaining a strong connection with your alma mater is an important part in supporting the next generation, especially those living in the Inland Empire,” said McNaughton. “I am incredibly humbled by this recognition and look forward to my continued collaboration with ULV in bridging gaps for current and future students.”  

he right way makes all the difference in providing quality health care services. Illustrating the significance of data management with industry peers and professionals, IEHP is sharing their experience mitigating bias in data algorithms and insight on how data can be used to enhance care quality at the Local Health Plans of California (LHPC) Moving the Needle: Advancing Health Equity Seminar in Sacramento Oct. 27 and the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) Innovation Summit in Washington, D.C. Oct. 31. Both events target strategic collaboration and sharing of ideas to accelerate the delivery of quality care and reduce gaps in health care among disadvantaged and vulnerable populations.  In their LHPC presentation, IEHP Chief Quality Officer Dr. Edward Juhn and Vice President of Quality Genia Fick will explain how data can be used to identify health disparities, define health equity issues and lay the groundwork for effective interventions to improve health outcomes.  “We are committed to leveraging new data to help inform health equity,” said Fick. “This will ensure we are funding and prioritizing the appropriate resources for those who need it most.” Dr. Juhn will also be joining ideas42 Managing Director Ted Robertson at NCQA’s Health Innovation Summit to present their collaborative work in addressing algorithmic bias to advance quality and equity outcomes. Their presentation will focus on the importance of addressing disparities unintentionally produced by algorithms and how health care organizations can mitigate it in practice.  “It is critical to be better stewards of our data to impactfully serve our community,” said Juhn. “Our goal and focus of leveraging data should be to improve health outcomes.” To learn more about IEHP, visit iehp.org.  

r in a row. The prestigious award is based entirely on what current team members say about their experience working at IEHP. This year, 92% of employees said IEHP is a Great Place To Work® – 35 points higher than the average U.S. company. Great Place To Work® is the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience and leadership behaviors proven to deliver market-leading revenue, employee retention and increased innovation. “At IEHP, our team members are at the heart of everything we do,” said IEHP’s Chief Executive Officer Jarrod McNaughton. “Their effort and engagement are what makes us truly a Great Place to Work. We will continue to strive for excellence and ensure that IEHP remains a place where all people feel valued, supported and empowered to achieve their full potential.” IEHP’s mission is to “heal and inspire the human spirit,” and its team members are vital to that mission, serving 1.6 million members residing in Riverside and San Bernardino counties. Life at IEHP includes a wide range of benefits and resources for employees to assist with health and wellness and job growth, including on-site or remote fitness classes, a computer lab, on-site partner agencies connecting people with vital social services and career coaching. Of IEHP’s 3,184 employees, 90% completed the survey that covered a variety of workplace quality-related experiences, including pride in the organization’s impact on the community, its reputation within areas served and the level of camaraderie created within the company. Highlights from the survey showed: 96% feel good about ways the organization contributes to its community. 95% report having special and unique company benefits. 94% are proud to tell others their place of employment. "Great Place To Work® Certification is a highly coveted achievement that requires consistent and intentional dedication to the overall employee experience," says Sarah Lewis-Kulin, vice president of global recognition at Great Place To Work®. She emphasizes that certification is the sole official recognition earned by the real-time feedback of employees regarding their company culture. “By successfully earning this recognition, it is evident that IEHP stands out as one of the top companies to work for, providing a great workplace environment for its employees.” Later this year, IEHP will know if the organization made the list of the Top 100 Best Workplaces in Healthcare for a second year in a row. According to Great Place To Work research, job seekers are 4.5 times more likely to find a great boss at a Certified great workplace. Additionally, employees at Certified workplaces are 93% more likely to look forward to coming to work, and are twice as likely to be paid fairly, earn a fair share of the company’s profits and have a fair chance at promotion. WE’RE HIRING! Looking to grow your career at a company that puts its people first? Visit our careers page at https://careers.iehp.org

tients in Barstow to primary care physicians, needed social services, and more.  "Through our collaboration with Barstow Community Hospital, we realized that there was an additional benefit to our members through post-discharge calls from IEHP’s Health Services and Community Health teams." said Sylvia Lozano, IEHP's Vice President of Hospital Relations. "A follow-up telephone call upon discharge is an essential activity to improve the transition from hospitalization to their return home," said Lozano. "This partnership with Barstow Community Hospital shows IEHP's unwavering commitment to our Members and Providers and demonstrates how the power of collaboration and dreaming of better ways to deliver care and services can ultimately lead to optimal care and vibrant health for our communities." IEHP Health Navigators provide referrals to other health plan services based on needs expressed during the calls, including organizing doctor’s appointments for members.  The pilot program also connects both hospital and health plan teams for weekly huddles to share insights, data trends, and discuss additional points of partnership to meet the needs of both organizations and the populations they serve.  "Our post-discharge call from trained hospital staff allows the patient's questions and misunderstandings, including discrepancies in the discharge plan, to be identified and addressed, as well as any concerns from caregivers or family members,” Margaret Ventura, Case Management Director for Barstow Community Hospital. "Additional follow-up calls post-discharge from IEHP to their members will only further benefit their members by improving the continuum of care for patients," added Ventura. Since the pilot program began in early October, more than 30 IEHP Members have been supported. While Member needs vary, IEHP's Health Navigators have reported cases where the need for resources and social support has been critical. "This pilot began with a compassionate team who saw an unmet need and found an innovative way to solve it," said Jarrod McNaughton, IEHP Chief Executive Officer. "We are developing this pilot to further demonstrate our commitment to the optimal care and vibrant health of our communities."   

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.

will not rest until our communities enjoy Optimal Care and Vibrant Health.  So year after year, #TeamIEHP does what they do best – heal and inspire the human spirit by giving back to the Inland Empire community. Between turkey distributions, vaccine clinics and senior citizen holiday gift drives, 2022 is no different.  Over the Thanksgiving holiday, IEHP distributed 200 free turkeys through its community resource centers, while the remaining holiday season of giving will include a company toy drive for the city of Trona, handwritten cards to local children in the foster system, and community vaccine clinics at holiday events, including Motivating Action Leadership Opportunity’s (MALO) Christmas Extravaganza. IEHP is also hosting an internal holiday gift drive to support senior citizens who have been identified as isolated, neglected or abused. Last year, IEHP team members provided cash donations and filled several boxes with items like blankets, socks, home décor, hygiene products and slippers. All donations were given to the Office on Aging. This year, IEHP team members are looking forward to exceeding last year’s contributions. “It’s the right thing to do,” said IEHP Behavioral Health and Care Management Support Services Manager Ben Jauregui. “Each year, our teams look forward to giving back in this way and reminding our local seniors they are cared for and loved.” For seniors who are isolated, vulnerable or medically at-risk, the holiday season can be challenging – even lonely – according to Jewel Lee, director of the Riverside County Office on Aging.  “This is an opportunity for us to highlight to everyone that even short moments of joy are very valuable to those who have no family or live alone,” Lee added. “We are fortunate to have community partners – like IEHP – who help us touch the lives of people in need of hope and positivity at this time of year.”      

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.

Department of Child Support Services, Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) Community Resource Centers will host Roadshow Recruitment job fairs.  Events will be held at all three IEHP Community Resource Centers at the following dates and times:  Tuesday, Nov. 8, from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. at IEHP’s Riverside center, 3590 Tyler St., Suite 101, Riverside, Calif., 92503 Wednesday, Nov. 9, from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. at IEHP’s Victorville center, 12353 Mariposa Road, Suites C-2 & C-3, Victorville, Calif., 92395 Thursday, Nov. 10, from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. at IEHP’s San Bernardino center, 805 W. Second St., Suite C, San Bernardino, Calif., 92410 Each event will have about eight employers on site, all accepting applications and conducting interviews for various roles. Industry positions include jobs in retail, education, transportation, manufacturing, logistics, hospitality, law enforcement, U.S. armed forces, administrative and more. Registration is required by filling out this form.  “With so many in need and right before the holidays, this job fair is greatly needed,” said IEHP Community Resource Center Manager Maria Gallegos. “We’re thrilled to connect our members and neighbors to trusted employers, who are actively looking to hire within our communities.” Attendees are encouraged to dress professionally and to bring several copies of their resumes. Workshops for resume building will also be offered by Goodwill of Southern California.  “Our centers are an invaluable resource for our region because of our community partners and their willingness to consistently collaborate with us to support our most vulnerable residents,” said IEHP Community Resource Center Manager Delia Orosco. “We are eager to help facilitate these connections and foster growth in our neighborhoods because of events like these.” 

), 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).

ommunity Behavioral Health Amrita Rai were each named Alumnus of the Year by their respective departments at Loma Linda University (LLU) for their promotion of the vision and purposes of their alma mater along with their contributions to the community.  Pham earned his master’s degree with an emphasis in healthcare administration from LLU’s School of Public Health. At IEHP, Pham develops and executes IEHP’s strategy system to advance the health plan’s mission and achieve its bold 2030 vision: we will not rest until our communities enjoy optimal care and vibrant health. In this work, Pham constantly seeks new ways for IEHP to better serve the community and its most vulnerable residents. “We were pleased to honor Mr. Thomas Pham with the SPH Alumnus of the Year Award at our 2022 commencement ceremony. His notable contributions as part of IEHP to the health and well-being of the Inland Empire communities reflect our vision for healthy people living in resilient communities supported by equitable systems of health,” said Dr. Helen Hopp Marshak, LLU Dean, School of Public Health. Honored by LLU’s School of Behavioral Health, Rai graduated with a master’s degree in social work. In her current role at IEHP, Rai actively leads both community and statewide initiatives in improving access to mental health services, including the Student Behavioral Health Incentive Program.  “Amrita Rai received the 2022 Alumni of the Year award at the graduation services of the Loma Linda University School of Behavioral Health for her unwavering commitment to servant leadership and the delivery of equitable behavioral health services for the most vulnerable populations throughout the Inland Empire,” said Dr. Beverly Buckles, LLU Dean, School of Behavioral Health.  Rai also shares her expertise and passion at various speaking engagements throughout the year, inspiring awareness and continued improvement of the development and delivery of behavioral health services.  “The transformational work Thomas and Amrita have done in their respective areas is a true testament to their love for the Inland Empire community. Active contributions and engagement from team members like Thomas and Amrita make IEHP’s commitment to heal and inspire the human spirit possible, and we are grateful for their service,” said Jarrod McNaughton, IEHP Chief Executive Officer. 

s, Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) member Lavinia experienced panic and anxiety attacks that compounded her heart issues and led to more hospital visits.  IEHP team members identified Lavinia’s specialized needs and connected her to a pilot program with focused support coordination for patients with congestive heart failure.  By participating in the program, Lavinia received free, medically tailored meals; regular check-ins from IEHP case management representatives; and tools like a glucometer, blood pressure cuff and weight scale to encourage her health. The program also connected Lavinia to IEHP’s Health Navigator team, who conducted in-home visits.  “Being able to be that person that they can socialize with, laugh with – even for just, maybe 30 minutes that we were there, it made a whole difference in their life, knowing that they had that support,” said IEHP Health Navigator Lucia Reyes. IEHP Care Manager Jonathan Lee called Lavinia for weekly check-ins, receiving inspiring progress reports about following her diet of no salt/no sodium and partnering with her Providers on her road back to health. “IEHP was calling … ‘Lavinia, what can we do to help you?’ … And that’s what helped me because I realized there were people that cared,” said Lavinia. Today, more than 18 months after being discharged from the ER, Lavinia feels better and stronger and has learned how to control her weight, losing 44 pounds so far, crediting the tasty and healthy meals provided to her. “IEHP helped me be a better person – because if it wasn’t being part of that program, I don’t think I would be here,” Lavinia said. “They saved my life – thank you. You guys did more than what you know.” IEHP members who would like to learn more about medically tailored meals and community support services can reach out to their care managers to see if they qualify.  For more details and information on Lavinia’s story, follow IEHP on LinkedIn.    

Operating Rules for Information Exchange (CORE®) Eligibility, Claim Status, and Payment & Remittance Certification Seals. This means IEHP successfully completed an extensive testing process and review of national operating standards, enabling health plans and providers to electronically share large quantities of administrative data quickly and accurately. These rules and guidelines aim to improve the efficiency and improve national health care system costs. “Exceeding these standards is critical to ensuring our providers have the necessary information to provide the very best care to our members,” said Vinil Devabhaktuni, IEHP’s Chief Information Officer. “Our teams work tirelessly to build sustainable systems and processes to support this effort and will continue to find innovative solutions to support the ongoing needs of our members and providers.” Widely viewed as the industry “gold standard,” the CORE Certification illustrates IEHP’s commitment to the secure exchange of member data and timely provisions of health care services. The certification also demonstrates IEHP’s ongoing work effort adhering to the operating rules and their underlying standards, plus going above and beyond what is required. “Inland Empire Health Plan is demonstrating industry leadership,” said Robin J. Thomashauer, CAQH president. “Operating rules are most effective when everyone follows them, and today, thanks to IEHP, our nation’s health care system has taken another important step forward.” CAQH CORE is a collaboration of more than 130 participating organizations that work together to develop operating rules. Participants represent health care providers, health plans, vendors, associations, government entities and the organizations that set standards for health care and data exchange. CORE Certification is currently available for all currently published Operating Rule Sets. To learn more about IEHP visit  iehp.org. For more information about CAQH CORE, visit www.caqhcore.org. 

is a nonprofit organization that was established to ensure access to quality and innovative health care by supporting objectives that focus on community health and clinical excellence, with an emphasis on housing insecurity, mental health, substance abuse, and food insecurity. IEHP Foundation will partner with IEHP to support its mission, vision and values through their own creative and innovative efforts. This work will serve the community in its entirety, beyond traditional health care services and reach the region’s most vulnerable populations, regardless of Medi-Cal membership.  Efforts will include supporting pilot programs, identifying innovative solutions that improve health outcomes, acting as a convener, collaborator and partner with community and faith-based communities, and much more.  “IEHP Foundation will be a grant maker and not a grant seeking organization so we can support our community-based groups and not compete with them for limited funds,” said IEHP Foundation President Angelica Baltazar. “Our work will focus on connecting our community with access to a better, more joyful life through programs and initiatives aimed at resolving the root causes of illness, health equity and core needs, including things like food, shelter and safety.”  But these goals cannot be accomplished alone. IEHP Foundation will collaborate with other organizations and community groups whose work aligns with the health plan’s mission, vision and values, according to Baltazar. “By helping to fill the void for the most vulnerable and keeping dollars in the Inland Empire, we feel we can make the most significant positive impact,” she said. “Our creative and innovative efforts will serve as an extension of IEHP’s support to the people of the Inland Empire.” IEHP is one of the top 10 largest Medicaid health plans and the largest not-for-profit Medicare-Medicaid plan in the country. In its 26th year, IEHP supports more than 1.5 million residents in Riverside and San Bernardino counties who are enrolled in Medicaid or Cal MediConnect Plans. IEHP Foundation’s work will serve the community in its entirety, beyond traditional health care services and reach the region’s most vulnerable populations, regardless of Medi-Cal membership. These efforts could include supporting pilot programs, investing in innovative technology that improves health outcomes and acting as a convener, collaborator and partner with community groups and faith-based organizations, Baltazar added.  The Journey Ahead To start this journey and set a successful path, IEHP Foundation leaders wanted to learn from others, so they traveled to Houston, New Orleans and Atlanta, observing various non-profits, bringing back best practices and innovative ways to improve care and foster community collaboration.  Additionally, the Foundation’s representatives have met with local community stakeholders and organizations to discuss increasing access to vibrant health for all residents across the Inland Empire.  IEHP Foundation held its first board meeting in late July, where its directors set to define the group’s vision and strategy.  “I am so pleased not only with the caliber of our IEHP Foundation Board, but the sincere and heartfelt desire to make a difference for our communities.  They are committed to long term sustainable change for overall community health improvement,” said Baltazar. Board Members include: Dr. Conrado Bárzaga, Desert Healthcare District & Foundation Chief Executive Officer; Dr. Geoffrey Leung, County of Riverside Public Health Officer; Josh Candelaria, Viewpoint Advocacy Principal; Karen Scott, First 5 San Bernardino Executive Director; Regina Weatherspoon-Bell, DVL Project/A Better Way/Victor Valley Domestic, Inc. Founder; Stephen Bennett, Caravanserai Project Board Chair and Co-Founder; Dr. Edward Juhn IEHP Chief Quality Officer; and Jarrod McNaughton, IEHP Chief Executive Officer.  “IEHP Foundation is a direct step toward vibrant health, quality of care and will move in support of impactful solutions addressing some of our region’s most critical needs,” said IEHP Foundation Board Member and IEHP Chief Quality Officer Dr. Edward Juhn. “I look forward to serving in this capacity and furthering IEHP’s mission, vision and values in the Inland Empire.”  

h Molina Healthcare, County Behavioral Health, the Offices of Education in Riverside and San Bernardino counties, and select local school districts and charter schools to implement the Student Behavioral Health Incentive Program (SBHIP).  The three-year program is in accordance with the California Department of Health Care Services’ (DHCS) goal to expand prevention and early intervention behavioral health services in schools and provides financial incentives to partnering school districts and charter schools. A total of $389 million has been allocated for California. Between both IEHP and Molina Healthcare, up to $50,845,334 can be utilized to support this program. According to the American Psychological Association, one in five young women and one in ten young men experience a major depressive episode before the age of 25. The COVID Collaborative also notes one in 330 California children have lost either a parent or caregiver in the last two years, adding significant stress and trauma to the lives of California’s youth, along with stay-at-home orders and remote learning.  “If the past few years have taught us anything, it’s that we need to be proactive in addressing mental health and wellness needs early on, before traumas have a chance to manifest later in life,” said Amrita Rai, IEHP’s clinical director of community behavioral health.  Through SBHIP efforts, existing mental health initiatives will be bolstered, and coordination between schools, managed care plans, county behavioral health and community partners aim to address the equity gap and improve access to mental health prevention and treatment for students.  Resources will be directed to fill gaps in these areas throughout the participating schools and their respective communities. Services will be limited to schools who are participating in SBHIP and who receive funding.   “We are well into a crisis when it comes to the mental health and wellness of our youth. Now is the time to be bold and work tirelessly for our children because what we do now will affect generations to come,” said Rai. “Why not focus our resources, our passion, and our commitment back into the community and schools? Our children spend most of their lives in school, which makes this multi-organizational partnership so worthwhile.” Partnerships with local education agencies and school sites include San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools (SBCSS); Riverside County of Education; Palm Springs Unified School District; Hemet Unified School District; San Bernardino City Unified School District; Rialto Unified School District; Victor Valley Union High School; Ontario-Montclair School District; Leadership Military Academy; Nuview Union School District; Provisional Accelerated Learning Academy; and Riverside County Office of Education Alternative Education Program.  While the initiative will begin at these partner sites, it is anticipated that learnings would benefit other schools and districts interested in implementing similar programs in the future.   “San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools recognizes the growing mental health crisis among our youth and supports this joint effort to address this critical issue,” said County Superintendent Ted Alejandre. “SBCSS seeks to build capacity within countywide systems and increase access to much needed support to ensure every child receives the services they need when they need them.”  “Educators at the Riverside County Office of Education and within all Local Educational Agencies (LEA) in Riverside County, are vitally interested in addressing the needs of the whole student beyond the classroom. Linking arms with partners across the county via the Student Behavioral Health Incentive Program (SBHIP) will equitably provide mental health services to those who might not otherwise have access to this level of support,” said Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Edwin Gomez. Selection of school districts and charter schools was dependent on DHCS guidelines and considered specific criteria, such as the number of students who received Medi-Cal, were foster youth or English learners, received free or reduced priced meals, were interested in participating in the program and other factors.  “It’s the right thing to do. This program gives us a great opportunity to extend both heart and hand to children in our community,” said Dr. Takashi Wada, IEHP’s chief medical officer. “Working together, we can equip them with necessary skills, habits and care they can use today and through adulthood, setting them up for a healthier and happier tomorrow.”  “The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated and elevated behavioral health needs in our communities, including in young people. Mental and emotional wellbeing make up a significant portion of overall health and healthy youth lead to improved community wellness. We are proud to partner with IEHP, local offices of education and mental health professionals to address the youth behavioral health crisis in tangible, preventative ways.” said Dr. Sayeed Khan, chief medical officer at Molina Healthcare. Program preparation began this year and will support a January 2023 launch at all 10 participating local education agencies. Through careful planning and implementation, the program will aim to build and support a sustainable system beyond the life of the program, which will end in December 2024. alt=" "="" src="-/media/7c6d40e217094fb1be8ec6cec9473878.ashx?h=233&w=350" class="" />

rofit Medicare-Medicaid plan in the nation, announced its designation as a 2022 Best Workplaces in Health Care™.  The Great Place to Work® and Fortune magazine designation reaffirms what the company’s annual survey revealed: 92% of the employee respondents believe IEHP is a great place to work, a statistic 35% higher than the average U.S. company. “Our strong team culture fuels our commitment to heal and inspire the human spirit,” says IEHP Chief Organizational Development Officer Janet Nix. “Working together, we’ve cultivated a strong, collaborative working environment where our team members take pride in doing the right thing for all we serve, including each other.” The Best Workplaces in Health Care award is based on analysis of survey responses from over 161,000 current employees from Great Place to Work® certified companies. Of IEHP’s 2,817 employees, 87% completed the survey that covered a variety of workplace quality experiences, including pride in the organization’s community impact, belief that their work makes a difference and feeling their work has special meaning. Highlights from the survey of IEHP’s employees include: 96% feel good about ways the organization contributes to its community 95% report having special and unique company benefits 94% are proud to tell others their place of employment  Great Place to Work is the only company culture award in America to select winners based on employees’ experiences, no matter who they are or what they do. The survey also provides team members the opportunity to give personal feedback regarding what they feel the company can do to improve even further. “The feedback delivered in these surveys is critical to moving IEHP forward and continuing to uphold our mission to heal and inspire the human spirit,” said IEHP Chief Executive Officer Jarrod McNaughton. “Our team members inspire the work we do every day and their innovative feedback has driven many of the initiatives we’ve implemented.” The Best Workplaces in Health Care list is highly competitive. Great Place to Work, the global authority on workplace culture, selected the list using rigorous analytics and confidential employee feedback. Companies were only considered if they are a Great Place to Work-Certified™ organization.  “It is our honor to spotlight the Best Workplaces in Health Care,” says Michael C. Bush, chief executive officer of Great Place to Work. “Health care heroes have been on the front lines saving lives, and these organizations dug deep to tailor their support to the rapidly changing demands from the pandemic. We applaud their commitment to inclusive, high-trust cultures.” When asked if there was anything unusual or unique about IEHP that makes it a great place to work, team members responded with personal insights, highlighting the organization’s positive impact.  “IEHP is unique in that they ‘walk their talk.’ In the 20 years of experience as a nurse, I have never been employed by an organization such as IEHP,” shared an IEHP team member in the anonymous survey. “They truly care for our community just as much as they care for their employees. It is a blessing to be part of such an amazing organization that exudes its mission, vision and values. I look forward to completing my mission as a nurse at IEHP.” To learn more about IEHP and career opportunities, visit iehp.org.