Medi-Cal Use and Cost Comparison
The infographic below about Medi-Cal use and cost shows why integrated care service providers are needed to lower health care costs. Aside from the fact that integrated primary care, mental health, and behavioral health treatment services improves outcomes and offers convenience, it also results in fewer ER visits and lower overall costs.
The costliest 10% of Medi-Cal account for 63% of overall spending. A large part of the additional cost lies in ER visits and hospital admissions. It also includes treatment for chronic conditions that co-occur with mental health or substance abuse disorders, or both.
Integrating care with a case manager makes it more convenient for individuals to go to a clinic for treatment rather than an ER. Reduced visits to the ER means lower costs overall, and patients benefit with less travel and a better understanding of their own health needs.
