Many families in the Central Valley are navigating uncertainty as California continues Medi-Cal redetermination and eligibility renewals. Changes in coverage status, renewal requirements, and paperwork can be confusing, causing some families to delay care while trying to understand what services and options are still available to them. For many, that uncertainty can lead to postponed appointments, unanswered questions, and difficult decisions about when to seek treatment.

In response to growing healthcare needs, Lumira Healthcare expanded services at its Modesto Orangeburg Ave Center with the introduction of dental care. To mark the expansion, Lumira recently hosted a community open house that brought together local leaders, providers, and community members for an important conversation about protecting and improving access to care in Stanislaus County.

Preventative Care Matters

As families navigate changes in healthcare coverage, preventative care becomes even more important. Dental issues are often delayed until pain or emergencies arise, but oral health plays a critical role in overall well-being, impacting everything from chronic disease prevention in adults to a child’s ability to learn and thrive in school.

Preventative care helps families address issues early before they become more serious and costly to treat. Simple treatments like fluoride can make a meaningful difference, especially for children, by helping prevent cavities and educating on healthy habits. Small proactive steps today can help families avoid much larger health challenges later on. 

Expanding Access, Regardless of Coverage

Lumira Healthcare’s dental program at the Modesto Orangeburg Ave Center was designed to expand access to affordable care for all patients, whether they have Medi-Cal, private insurance, or no insurance at all. Through Lumira’s sliding-fee program, families can still receive care based on household size and income. As Lumira Healthcare CEO Leslie Abasta shared during the event:

“This program is about meeting patients where they are, ensuring they have access to affordable, high-quality care, and supporting our community through this period of transition so no one falls through the cracks.”

The goal is not only to provide treatment when issues arise, but to help families establish consistent, preventative care that supports long-term health.

Addressing Barriers to Care

Preventative care is only one piece of a much broader conversation around healthcare access. For many families in the Central Valley, barriers like transportation, cost, language, awareness, and proximity to care can all impact whether someone is able to receive treatment. That’s why access to care is the foundation of Lumira’s mission, where services are designed to be approachable, affordable, comprehensive, and rooted in the real needs of the community. 

Left Image: Mayor Sue Zwahlen and Leslie Abasta, Lumira Healthcare CEO. Right Image: (Left to Right) Leslie Abasta, CEO; Dr. Pannu, DDS; Ilia Rolon, Health Plan of San Joaquin; Dr. Elise Chavez, DDS: University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry

What This Means for Families

For local individuals and families, don’t wait for pain to take action. Preventative care is available, accessible, and designed to support families at every stage. Small steps today, like scheduling a routine checkup, can prevent much bigger future challenges. 

Learn more about Lumira Healthcare’s dental services and encourage members in your community to call or text 209-850-3500 to schedule an appointment. 

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