We are excited to share our latest report, Aiming Higher for California Communities: CBO Perspectives on CalAIM Implementation. This longitudinal analysis, based on surveys and interviews with CA Alliance member CBOs, provides an examination of the overall trends, impacts, and challenges of CalAIM’s implementation to date.

Our findings show that although CalAIM’s implementation is well underway, early implementation has produced mixed results, especially as it relates to payment reform. Some CBOs have reported increased efficiency and more time for direct care, while others continue to face significant challenges related to productivity, documentation, and fiscal sustainability. It remains unclear whether these issues are transitional or indicative of deeper flaws in the fee-for-service model's role in the transition to value-based care.

Key takeaways from the report:

• Fiscal Challenges: There remain significant concerns about unsustainable rates and inconsistent county pass-through funding.
• Documentation Burdens: Complexities in CPT codes and EHR systems delaying payments and increasing administrative workloads for CBOs.
• Success Stories: Case studies reveal CBOs leveraging data, unified advocacy, and proactive negotiations with counties achieved better rates and maintained critical services.

This report outlines challenges and offers actionable recommendations for CBOs, counties, and DHCS to ensure CalAIM’s goals of equity and efficiency are met.

Download the full report here to explore the findings and recommendations in detail.

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