DCHS Lays Foundation for Universal Coverage

The Asian Pacific Liver Center at St. Vincent Medical Center > Screenings, Events & News > News > DCHS Lays Foundation for Universal Coverage

During Cover the Uninsured Week--a national effort to show the need and to advocate for universal health coverage—the Asian Pacific Liver Center (APLC) at St. Vincent Medical Center in Los Angeles is especially important. The APLC works to prevent and manage chronic Hepatitis B, a condition prevalent among the Asian Pacific Islander community. Prevention and the early intervention of chronic diseases such as Hepatitis B provides a foundation for universal coverage.

UnitedHealth Group/PacifiCare recently awarded a $465,000+ grant to the APLC for a novel approach to preventing chronic hepatitis B. St Vincent $465704 grant final.doc

imilar programs to serve the identified needs of their local communities are underway at DCHS hospitals.

“The APLC saves lives and improves the quality of life. It also controls long term health care costs, making universal coverage more affordable. Chronic care patients represent only 20% of patients nationwide but account for 75% of our nation’s health care spending.”

Dr. Tse-Ling Fong
Program Director, APLC

“As a carrier of Hepatitis B, I understand the importance of preventing and managing this disease. That is why I have authored state legislation—AB 158—that will expand Medi-Cal eligibility to Hep B patients and help them access care provided by institutions like the APLC.”

The Honorable Fiona Ma (D-S.F.)
California Assembly Member

“The mission of the Daughters of Charity Health System—to provide comprehensive, compassionate health care, especially to the sick and the poor—is lived out in the work of the APLC. By treating a chronic disease like Hep B we are enhancing the quality of people’s lives and laying the groundwork for universal coverage.

Sister Marjory Ann Baez, D.C.
VP, Mission Integration, DCHS