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Page count: 23

The purpose of this paper is to critically analyze the government health insurance MediCal and its mental health policies to understand better how we can provide quality mental health services to Medi-Cal recipients of color. The methodology consisted of a policy analysis using a Critical Race Theory Framework (CRT) and maintaining an intersectionality theoretical grounding. The results show that timely quality mental health resources for Medi-Cal recipients are not available, leading individuals to seek services through the Emergency Department. Applying the CTR framework analyzing Medi-Cal policies can support the dismantling of a subsection of a healthcare system designed to serve the hierarchical needs of white and or wealthy individuals. Rebuilding the county mental health system with the core value of social justice can provide culturally competent, quality, timely, equitable mental health treatment to communities of color who are Medi-Cal recipients. It is also crucial to acknowledge that the data used in this thesis was recorded prepandemic. It is vital to recognize that many people have been brutally affected by COVID-19 and require an increase in mental health services. This analysis will inquire about people of color living in California before the pandemic in hopes that these strategies can be utilized to create a better system to serve communities of color from this point on. As Social Workers, we can vi influence federal parity laws and mental health reform policies, expand coverage for quality care, and advocate for equitable mental health services within communities of color.