Dear Friends,

As the operator of the only two free health clinics in San Mateo County, we’re writing to share what we’re seeing on the front lines and how we’re preparing to meet an unprecedented moment of need.

San Mateo County is projecting that 40,000 residents will lose Medi-Cal coverage in the coming year, including children. In addition, as families lose ACA subsidies and become ineligible for coverage, many who had stable healthcare will face impossible choices between medical care, rent, and putting food on the table. Acute and chronic medical conditions will go unmanaged, resulting in a dangerous lack of care. This will also place an undue pressure on emergency departments. Preventive care will become a luxury many can’t afford.

Behind these numbers are real people. A parent, a neighbor, a friend, coming to us carrying more than just health concerns: they carry worry, uncertainty, and fear about their health, their families’ well-being, and so much more.

Right now, Samaritan House cares for 2,000 to 3,000 patients annually through a highly streamlined system of staff and volunteers. We are the medical, dental, and behavioral health home for these families. Now, we could become the only option of care for thousands more. Samaritan House is preparing for a significant increase in patient volume as individuals lose their healthcare due to new legislative mandates, or unaffordable premiums.

Through thoughtful planning and community collaboration, we remain committed to ensuring that every person in our community has access to the healthcare they deserve, regardless of their ability to pay. We are working closely with our healthcare partners in the public and private space as well as with the County of San Mateo to expand our capacity and build a stronger safety net, together.

You can help us be ready. If you are a medical provider, advanced practice provider, nurse practitioner, or a behavioral health specialist, please consider joining us as a regular volunteer. Every hour volunteered helps us provide high quality care to those with nowhere else to go.

With gratitude,

Dr. Singh