#United States #Rancho Cucamonga #Health Equity #NCQA #Inland Empire Health Plan

Inland Empire Health Plan Achieves Health Equity Accreditation

Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) has reached a significant milestone by obtaining Health Equity Accreditation from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) for its Covered California plans. This is a noteworthy achievement, especially as it marks the first time IEHP has received such an accreditation.

A Commitment to Quality Health Care

According to Lorena Chandler, IEHP’s Vice President of Health Equity, the organization positions its members at the forefront of its mission. Reducing health disparities has become essential in delivering the highest quality of care that every member deserves. This accreditation emphasizes IEHP’s dedication to addressing the various factors that contribute to health inequity.

NCQA’s Rigorous Standards

The NCQA awards its accreditation to organizations that demonstrate a solid foundation in health equity initiatives and meet or exceed established criteria. These standards include:

• - Developing a culture that supports health equity not just externally but within the organization as well.
• - Collecting data that allows the organization to implement language services and create provider networks sensitive to cultural and linguistic needs.
• - Identifying opportunities for reducing health inequities and enhancing care quality.

Upon evaluating IEHP, the NCQA noted the organization’s strong capabilities, particularly its committed staff. They successfully assess and address the diverse cultural, ethical, racial, and linguistic needs of over 1.5 million members throughout Riverside and San Bernardino counties.

Long-standing Dedication to Quality

IEHP's engagement in the NCQA Health Plan Accreditation process spans more than two decades, reiterating its ongoing commitment to quality improvement. For IEHP, achieving this accreditation adds weight to their continuous efforts toward enhancing healthcare services.

Genia Fick, IEHP’s Vice President of Quality, commented on the significance of the accolade, stating that the NCQA accreditation propels their quality improvement efforts by integrating accountability into the core of their operations. This achievement affirms the promise of enhancing healthcare services for their members.

A Bright Future Ahead

The newly acquired accreditation is reflected on NCQA's official website, remaining valid until January 2028. This achievement not only showcases IEHP's commitment to health equity but also reinforces its position as one of the leading health plans in California.

IEHP: Serving the Community

Founded in 1996, IEHP is recognized as a top-ten Medicaid health plan and the largest non-profit Medicare-Medicaid public health plan nationwide. It is also celebrated for being a Great Place To Work®, consistent for four successive years. Currently, IEHP caters to more than 1.5 million residents in Riverside and San Bernardino counties who are enrolled in Medicaid or IEHP DualChoice, which integrates Medi-Cal and Medicare.

By 2024, the plan will further enhance health care access with the introduction of Covered California plans, continuing to extend its services and support for local residents. With an extensive network of qualified medical professionals and nearly 4,000 dedicated staff, IEHP upholds its vision of ensuring optimal care and vibrant health for its communities.

For more information about IEHP’s mission and services, visit iehp.org.