LACMA Joins L.A. Care-led Coalition to Urge Congress to Protect Medicaid and Safeguard California’s Health and Economy

In a powerful demonstration of unity, the Los Angeles County Medical Association (LACMA) has joined a broad coalition led by L.A. Care Health Plan, Southern California’s largest publicly operated health plan, to urge Congress to preserve Medicaid funding and prevent catastrophic harm to California’s healthcare system and economy.

The coalition—which includes prominent stakeholders, major hospitals, business leaders, and physician organizations like LACMA—sent a letter to congressional leaders warning of the consequences of federal proposals that would drastically cut Medicaid support. These proposals threaten $10 to $20 billion in annual funding for California’s Medi-Cal program, which serves nearly 15 million residents, including 41% of Los Angeles County.

“This coalition, led by L.A. Care, brings together healthcare, business, and civic leaders in defense of the most vulnerable populations in our communities,” said Gustavo Friederichsen, CEO of LACMA. “Cuts of this magnitude would not only undermine care access but destabilize the health system Los Angeles depends on.”

Medi-Cal is not just a safety net; it’s a backbone of the regional economy. According to the coalition’s findings, the program supports nearly 800,000 healthcare-related jobs in L.A. County. Funding reductions could force hospitals and community clinics—particularly those in underserved areas—to cut services or close their doors entirely.

As the nation’s eyes turn to Los Angeles for upcoming global events like the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympics, coalition members stress that protecting Medi-Cal is vital to ensuring the region is healthy, prepared, and economically strong.

L.A. Care has launched the “Medicaid Matters” campaign to mobilize public support and spotlight the far-reaching consequences of the proposed cuts. LACMA, long committed to ensuring physician sustainability and patient access, is proud to be part of this advocacy effort.

“Medicaid is essential to public health, workforce health, and economic health,” the coalition’s letter states. “We urge Congress to work with states—not against them—in maintaining and strengthening the Medicaid program.”

To learn more and join the effort, visit lacare.org/about/medicaid-matters.