Health Insurance FAQs

The new year is a good time to check on any changes to your health insurance and ensure you know how to make the most out of your benefits. Below are some commonly asked questions about insurance and links to resources to get more information.

Q: What kind of health insurance am I eligible for?

Many people qualify for health insurance through their employer. If you do not have health insurance through work, then you have several other options to explore:

  1. Purchase insurance privately – you can go through an insurance broker to find the best plan for you. However, it is a good idea to first see if you qualify for any subsidies through Covered California (a part of the Affordable Care Act).
  2. If you are low-income, you may qualify for Medi-Cal, California’s version of Medicaid, for free or very low-cost healthcare coverage. You may apply through Covered California’s website or you may apply directly at BenefitsCal.
  3. If you are 65 or older, or if you have a permanent disability, End-Stage Renal Disease or ALS, you may qualify for Medicare. For more information about Medicare, please contact Los Angeles County’s Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) at the Center for Healthcare Rights or visit the Medicare website.
  4. If you are under 26 years of age, you may be able to remain on your parent’s health insurance.

Q: What’s the difference between premiums, deductibles and copayment/coinsurance?

Q: What is an HMO? A PPO?

Q: How do I go about getting medical care?

Start by establishing care with a Primary Care Provider (PCP). While having a PCP may not be required for a PPO plan, it is a good idea to have a primary doctor to oversee your care. If you have an HMO, you will need to visit their website or call their customer service line to find an in-network PCP that is taking new patients.

Your annual wellness visit is typically free, regardless of the type of insurance you have.

Q: How do I get connected with mental health support?

Through the Affordable Care Act, mental health and substance use services are covered. If you have an HMO health plan, start by visiting their website or calling their customer care line for in-network providers. Refer to our “How to Find a Therapist” FAQ for more information.

Q: What about vision and dental services?

Vision and dental may or may not be a part of your health insurance. For example, Medi-Cal includes vision and dental, but Medicare does not, unless you opt to purchase a Medicare Advantage plan. If your plan doesn’t have the vision and dental you are looking for, you can typically purchase a plan privately.

For any general questions related to accessing healthcare coverage, please visit our website or contact our Assistance, Information and Referral Line at 310-374-3426, Option 1.

How to help those impacted by the LA Wildfires

NEW! From Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi’s website, here is a listing of events taking place in the South Bay to support residents impacted by the Southern California wildfires. It also includes some resources for those affected or displaced by the fires.

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For those looking to help those impacted by the wildfires in Los Angeles County, the organizations listed below are taking donations.

The American Red Cross

The American Red Cross is accepting donations online. The organization plays a role in disaster recovery by providing emergency shelters, meals, medical care, and recovery planning services. To contribute, see redcross.org/donate/donation.html/.

The Salvation Army

Donations are being accepted online for wildfire relief efforts in Southern California. The Salvation Army has trained staff that is providing food, water, shelter and other needed resources.

United Way of Greater Los Angeles

United Way focuses on longer-term recovery efforts to support members of the community and is currently working with community partners to assess the impact on the ground. United Way will support low-income individuals whose lives have been disrupted, people experiencing homelessness and disruptions to community organizations and small businesses. You can support these efforts by making an online monetary donation.

Teledoc

Virtual medical service Teledoc is providing free 24/7 virtual medical care from licensed healthcare professionals for any non-emergency illness by calling Teladoc Health directly at 855-225-5032.

World Central Kitchen

World Central Kitchen’s relief team is in Southern California to support first responders and families affected by the fires, providing meals to those in need. Click to make an online donation.

LA Regional Food Bank

The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank is accepting online donations to support their efforts. Los Angeles Regional Food Bank provides emergency food assistance to families and residents impacted by the fires. The Food Bank is accepting food donations at its distribution centers from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. at 1734 East 41st Street Los Angeles,  90058 or 2300 Pellissier Place, Industry, 90601.

Community Organized Relief Effort (CORE)

CORE launched in 2010 to respond to the devastating Haiti earthquake. The group now works with local community organizations in areas hit by disasters worldwide to provide short- and long-term help and recovery, with a particular focus on underserved communities. CORE is responding to the L.A. wildfires, and you can donate here.

Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation

The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation is the official nonprofit of the L.A. City Fire Department, supporting more than 3,000 local firefighters and paramedics by providing equipment and tools to help them fight wildfires effectively. Donations can be made online at supportlafd.org/donate/.

California Fire Foundation

The foundation is taking donations online at cpf.salsalabs.org to provide aid for fire crews and residents.

GoFundMe

GoFundMe has created a centralized online hub with verified fundraising pages related to the wildfires. The hub will be updated with accounts as they are verified by the GoFundme team. To help, donate to the Wildfire Relief Fund, or you can scan the verified fundraiser accounts on the hub and choose an account to help directly.

Pasadena Humane Center

Pasadena Humane animal control officers have been assisting with animal evacuations while staff have been working at the shelter to help take in the animals of displaced families. The Center will accept monetary donations online. The organization is also accepting donated items, including food and water bowls, extra-large crates and blankets. Items may be left in a donation bin in the front parking lot at 361 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena 91105.

Baby2Baby

Baby2Baby provides diapers, food, formula and hygiene products for children and families who have lost their homes to the fires. You can donate online to the organization’s Disaster Relief and Emergency Response Program.

Animal/Pet Assistance Organizations

Canine Rescue Club

The Canine Rescue Club is a network of caregivers who foster dogs awaiting their forever home. The club is looking for volunteers to offer temporary foster care for dogs displaced by the fires. You can apply to temporarily house an affected dog by filling out an online form.

spcaLA

spcaLA filled its L.A. Pet Adoption Center with the pets of Eaton fire evacuees, including dozens of dogs, cats, and pets whose families had to leave their homes. The public can make a special donation to help spcaLA’s disaster response. spcaLA is providing shelter space, supplies, and staff to accommodate the overflow of animals.

Beach Cities Collections/Donation Efforts

*List compiled from numerous sources, including the Daily Breeze (subscription required), Los Angeles Times (subscription required), MBNews.com, NBC Los Angeles and organization websites.

Start the Year Strong

In the new year, many people turn to resolutions, and fitness is one of the most popular areas for self-improvement. The start of a new year offers a fresh opportunity to set health goals, whether it’s losing weight, building strength, or adopting a more active lifestyle. Here’s how to make your fitness resolutions stick and turn your goals into lasting habits. 

  1. Set Specific and Achievable Goals 
    Instead of vague resolutions like “get fit,” set clear and measurable goals such as “work out three times a week” or “run a 5k by June.” Having an achievable goal makes it easier to track progress and stay motivated (TTUHSC, 2024). 
  2. Start Slow and Build Gradually 
    It’s tempting to dive in with intense workouts, but easing into a new routine can help prevent burnout and injury. Begin with short, manageable sessions, and gradually increase the intensity or duration as your body slowly adapts to a new normal. 
  3. Make It Enjoyable 
    The best way to stay committed to your fitness journey is to enjoy the process. Whether it’s dancing, yoga, or weightlifting, choose activities that excite you. If you’re having fun, you’ll be more likely to stick with your plan. 
  4. Stay Consistent 
    According to Julie Lumbao, CHF Programs Manager, consistency is key to achieving results. Even on days when motivation is low, commit to doing something whether it’s a short workout, a walk, or a stretching session. Small, consistent efforts add up over time. If you feel like not going to the gym, at-home workouts are always an option as well. 
  5. Celebrate Milestones 
    Progress isn’t always linear, but it’s important to celebrate achievements along the way, no matter how small. Whether it’s improving your endurance, lifting heavier weights, or simply sticking with your routine, acknowledging your efforts will keep you motivated. 

By setting realistic goals, staying consistent, and finding joy in the journey, you can turn your fitness resolutions into lasting habits that improve your health and well-being throughout the year. 

 

Holiday Gift Bags Spread Seasonal Cheer!

The holidays can be a bittersweet time, especially for older adults and individuals with disabilities. While festivities bring warmth and cheer, they can also highlight feelings of loneliness and isolation. National statistics shed light on this reality: approximately 14% of adults over 65 in the U.S. spend Christmas alone, and nearly 60% of nursing home residents do not receive visitors during the season (National Center for Health Statistics). 

However, the story in the Beach Cities paints a much brighter picture. 

A Community of Care 

The Beach Cities Health District (BCHD) Care Management program embodies the true spirit of the season. Thanks to the collaboration of Care Managers, dedicated volunteers, and generous donors, more than 200 older adults in the community receive Holiday Gift Bags each year. These bags, filled with thoughtful items, bring not only practical comfort but also an emotional connection to a caring community. 

One recipient, Peter Champagne, shared his heartfelt gratitude for these efforts. “I’ve been the lucky recipient for the past four or five years, and each year I cherish the gifts,” said Peter. “The little blue throw wrap is a wonderful comfort in the winter months, and the veterans’ red, white, and blue knitted blanket always brings a smile to my face.” 

Among the items Peter treasures most are simple yet meaningful gifts like postage stamps, pens, and a calendar. But for Peter, the joy goes beyond the contents of the bag. “Their delivery always comes as a pleasant surprise,” he reflected. “More importantly, it’s about the fellowship and community spirit.” 

The Volunteers Behind the Joy 

This remarkable tradition wouldn’t be possible without volunteers like Claudia Lindwall. Claudia, an allcove Campus Greeter and Errand Volunteer, has been integral to the Holiday Gift Bag project for years. Her commitment to bringing joy to others shines not only through her participation in this initiative but also in her daily efforts, from decorating BCHD’s facilities to supporting various community programs. 

“I’ve been volunteering on the Holiday Gift Bag project for a number of years,” Claudia shared. “It’s an example of how an idea that started in 1998 has blossomed into a wonderful tradition. Some recipients are happy to simply receive the bag, while others value the opportunity to chat. It’s all about improving the lives of seniors and elders in Beach Cities.” 

A Life Well Lived 

Peter’s story is one of resilience and gratitude. Originally from the New York area, Peter served in the Army before moving to Los Angeles, where he built a career in the graphics and printing industry. While technological advancements eventually led to his early retirement, Peter embraced his time to explore the world, from Stonehenge in England to countless other adventures. 

Today, Peter spends much of his time recovering from health challenges but remains optimistic. “I’ve become an expert in Hallmark movies,” he joked, underscoring his ability to find light in everyday moments. 

Making a Difference 

The Holiday Gift Bag project is a testament to the power of community. It reminds us that even small gestures can bring immense joy and connection to those who might otherwise feel overlooked. 

For more information about the Holiday Gift Bags or to get involved, visit www.bchd.org/holidaygiftbags. 

From the Beach Cities Health District family to yours, we wish you a joyful and connected holiday season! 

 

How to Ditch Stress During the Holiday Season

Eat. Sleep. Participate in some type of holiday festivity. Repeat.  

The holidays are a wonderful time of year to gather with friends, family and loved ones. However, it’s also common to feel stressed and overwhelmed about the hustle and bustle that this season brings.   

There are many reasons why stress may rise during this time — the seasonal demands of planning, entertaining, preparing meals, shopping and even cleaning — the list goes on and on!  

Luckily, there are plenty of healthy techniques that you can implement into your daily routine to help you address unhealthy stressful feelings. Below are five simple tips that are sure to ease your mind and keep you feeling calm.  

  1. Focus on Your Breathing: Focusing on your breathing is an effective way to immediately relax and reduce stress, as found in a study conducted at the University of Arizona, and it’s easy! Next time you begin to feel overwhelmed by holiday stressors, try to PAUSE and use this simple breathing technique. The University of Michigan recommends this technique for beginners.  
    • Belly Breathing: While sitting or lying in a comfortable position, place one hand on your chest and the other on your stomach, just below your ribcage. Inhale deeply through your nose, allowing your stomach to gently expand with air. Breathe out with pursed lips, feeling the hand on your belly slowly descend, gently using it to push the air out. Repeat 3-10 times.   
  1. Exercise: Engaging in any type of physical activity increases your overall health, and is also an effective way to reduce stress levels. While you exercise, your body releases endorphins – often referred to as “feel-good” chemicals – which are chemicals that are produced naturally by the body to relieve symptoms of pain or stress by stimulating feelings of pleasure and well-being. The key to implementing exercise as a coping mechanism to battle stress is to find an activity that you enjoy. If you don’t prefer to exercise at a gym, try these outdoor activities instead:  
    • Bike along the beach in Manhattan Beach 
    • Go for a brisk walk or jog near the beach – perhaps along The Strand  
    • Hike along a scenic trail, like the George F. Canyon Nature Center in Rolling Hills Estates 
    • Swim laps or do water aerobics at your preferred local spot  
    • Walk around your neighborhood to look at holiday lights 
    • Beach Cities Health District (BCHD) also provides a wide range of at-home exercise videos on its Center for Health & Fitness YouTube playlist that you can do in the comfort of your own home. Try one today! Learn more here. 
  1. Create Something: For many people, distracting their mind by bringing focus to their hands is a great way to relieve stress. Try to engage in a hands-on activity that you enjoy, whether it be drawing, coloring, knitting, or writing. In fact, one study found that coloring complex geometric patterns lead to lower levels of anxiety, making coloring a great stress-reliever.  
    • BCHD has a couple printable holiday cards that you can color and display in your home, or even send to someone special: See here. 
  1. Meditate: According to the American Psychological Association, mindful meditation can be described as a way to train your attention to achieve a mental state of calm concentration and positive emotions. Meditation and mindfulness are great tools that aid in combating feelings of stress by re-directing you to focus on the present, rather than worry about the past or future. In fact, researchers conducted a meta-analysis including nearly 1,300 adults and found that meditation was especially effective for reducing stress and anxiety.  
    • BCHD offers dozens of mindfulness exercise videos and also hosts a virtual, 30-minute guided mediation on the first Wednesday of each month. To access these resources, see here. 
  1. Eat Right: Focusing on nutrition comes in handy when trying to reduce the negative effects of stress. In fact, a balanced diet can support a healthy immune system and provides the extra energy needed to cope with stressful events, according to Harvard’s School of Public Health. Developing a habit of eating healthy can improve your overall diet, and can also eventually lead to reduced stress levels.   
    • BCHD’s Blue Zones Project® Cooking Show offers delicious and nutritious recipes, videos and more that can help you make healthier choices in the kitchen and beyond. See here for recipes and more information. Be sure to check out the Zones Project Cooking Show recipes  and December as they are sure to revolutionize your holiday menu this year.   

Experimenting is the best way to find a healthy stress management technique that works best for you. Executing at least one of these techniques, or combining a couple of your favorites, is a surefire way to ease your mind during this busy holiday season. After all, we’re meant to enjoy the holidays, not worry over them! 

A November note from our CEO

Dear Beach Cities Resident,

As Thanksgiving nears, I like to take the opportunity to think of the people and things I am thankful for.

Of course, this includes my family. My wife and I are now “empty nesters,” and our son has moved to Utah and embarked on his career. My father is in his 90’s now, and I treasure my time with him last month watching the Dodgers and cheering them on to their World Series win – something else I am thankful for. We are fortunate that we will all be able to get together to celebrate Thanksgiving together with other members of my family on hand too.

Not everyone in our community is so fortunate, and many face the prospect of spending the holidays alone, which can make for a challenging holiday season. This is where Holiday Gift Bags come in.

Next month, our team will do a lot of work to gather items, assemble and deliver Holiday Gift Bags for 250 Beach Cities older adults and adults with disabilities. 2024 marks the 26th year of this program, which provides much-needed household supplies and some holiday cheer to some of the most vulnerable members of our community. I am thankful for the hundreds of volunteers who give their time and service to assemble and deliver these gift bags, as well as the many donors who provide the items to make life better for our older adults.

I also want to extend my thanks to the dozens of people who supported BCHD by working on behalf of Measure BC, the $30 million bond which would have facilitated the creation of a permanent home for allcove Beach Cities in Redondo Beach. While we did not get the result we hoped for, I am thankful for the hard work and support of the people who fought for the measure.

Again this year, I am grateful for our BCHD team members who do such great work on behalf of our community, including our board of directors, staff, our dedicated volunteers and the numerous partners who help make this community a great place to live. Thank you for all you do to support our healthy beach community.

Best wishes to you and yours for a happy Thanksgiving.

 
In health,

Tom 

Beach Cities Health District – Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP)

As valued members of our Beach Cities community, your input is crucial in shaping Beach Cities Health District’s Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP). This initiative aims to identify and reduce the impacts of natural hazards—such as flooding, wildfires, and earthquakes—that can affect our homes, businesses, and overall safety.

If you live or work in Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach or Redondo Beach, you are invited to take a brief survey that will directly inform the development of our LHMP, and ensure that we build a safer, smarter community for all.

Why Your Voice Matters: As the costs of disaster management and recovery continue to rise, we must work together to find effective ways to minimize these risks. By participating in this survey, you’ll help us understand the hazards that concern you most and the strategies that could strengthen our community’s resilience.

What We’re Asking: The survey will assess:

Join a Meeting: The next committee meeting is Thursday, December 5, 9 – 11 a.m. Click here to join the meeting.  

The survey should take less than five minutes to complete. The last day to complete the survey is May 2, 2025.

If you have any questions about the survey or the planning process, please contact Dylan Yates at dylan.yates@constantassociates.com.

Thank you for taking the time to contribute to this important effort. Together, we can break the cycle of damage and reconstruction and work toward a stronger, safer community!

TAKE THE SURVEY

Mychal’s Cafe is now Blue Zones Project Approved!

Blue Zones Project Approved™ Restaurants empower community members to make healthier choices by implementing evidence-backed actions that promote healthy eating. 

Designated in October 2024, Mychal’s Cafe at 2302 Artesia Blvd in Redondo Beach joins a list of more than 90 Blue Zones Project Approved Restaurants and Grocery Stores in the Beach Cities.  

The Founder, Ed Lynch, opened the cafe to honor the memory of his daughter, Mychal, and shed light on the challenges families face as a result of the lack of support for parents of children with developmental disabilities. 

“Two years after she was born, it became apparent that she was developmentally and physically disabled. Although doctors gave her only two years to live, Mychal’s spirit was amazing. She lived five and a half more years until her death in 1996. During that time, Mychal never lost her sense of humor or the love in her heart. She taught me so much about life and the importance of having resources, programs and services available to parents of children with developmental disabilities. As a result, I have dedicated my life to creating programs that enable our youth with developmental disabilities to live independent, fulfilled and productive lives.” 

You can read more about Mychal’s Story here. 

Through the launch of various social enterprises like Mychal’s Print & Embroidery, Mychal’s Bakery & Coffee, as well as Mychal’s Cafe, Mychal’s Learning Place has provided opportunities for on-the-job training for young adults with developmental or intellectual disabilities.  

Our community is truly fortunate to have an establishment like Mychal’s Cafe with a dedicated and talented team that promises delicious morning coffee as well as fresh and local breakfast and lunch options. 

Their menu boasts a wide variety of classic breakfast fare, fresh salads with bright flavors, and savory sandwiches. As part of their commitment to providing healthy choices to community members, they have redesigned their menu to highlight Blue Zones Project Approved Dishes like their Vegan Tomato Soup and creamy Avocado Toast.  

You can substitute any refined grain option like brioche or ciabatta bread for sourdough. Not only does sourdough add a pleasantly tangy and unique flavor to any dish, but it contains natural probiotics that boost your gut health.  

According to Harvard Health, incorporating fermented foods like sourdough into your diet “promotes beneficial enzymes, B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids, as well as various species of good bacteria.”  

Mychal’s Cafe not only inspires us to make healthy choices, but to make a difference in our community.  

If you would like to support them, please visit their website for options on how to help: https://www.mychals.org/. 

Crafting Your Own Path in Volunteering

In recent years, I’ve had the opportunity to meet many inspiring individuals who dedicate their time to Beach Cities Health District (BCHD). This month, I spoke with a former standout volunteer: Tatum Cunningham, a student at Redondo Union High School whose journey of community service is as impressive as her many talents.

Tatum, a Southern California native, has lived in Redondo Beach with her family for most of her life. Her passions and skills run deep—from rock climbing since the age of three to competitive sailing with the RUHS team. She’s also an entrepreneur, creating and selling her own jewelry and accessories through her pop-up store, “Little Things Pop Up Accessories Store,” on her high school campus.

However, it’s Tatum’s commitment to giving back that sets her apart. Since childhood, she’s volunteered alongside her mother, delivering BCHD holiday gift bags to seniors and adults with disabilities. She also serves as a Youth Summer Programs Coach at Sender One Climbing Center, where she encourages young climbers to pursue their goals with positivity and resilience.

When COVID-19 impacted student mental health, Tatum was introduced to the BCHD Youth Advisory Council through her friend, mental health advocate Chase S. Without hesitation, Tatum joined, taking on the role of raising awareness about health issues affecting her peers. Through this role, she was soon introduced to allcove, BCHD’s youth mental health center, which provides support for young people facing mental health and substance use challenges.

As someone who has faced her own mental health struggles, Tatum found her role at allcove both personally meaningful and socially impactful. “By sharing my experiences, I realized I could help others feel more comfortable discussing mental health,” Tatum explains. “allcove isn’t just for people going through tough times—it’s for anyone. We all have mental health, and the more we accept and understand that, the better we’ll be at supporting each other.”

Amanda Verwys, Tatum’s supervisor at BCHD, highlights her leadership and dedication to the Youth Advisory Group: “Tatum was been instrumental in shaping allcove to reflect the needs of local youth. She brought her creativity and passion to public speaking, community outreach, and advocacy work, setting an example for her peers. Her positive attitude and determination have made a tangible difference in our community.”

For other students in Beach Cities who want to make an impact, Tatum offers this advice: “With the allcove Youth Advisory Group, you can shape your experience based on your interests and goals. We’re encouraged to create initiatives that resonate with us and serve our community’s youth. It’s been incredibly fulfilling to bring my ideas to life and know that my work is truly helping others.”

Tatum’s journey exemplifies the power of combining personal growth with community service, making her an inspiration and a valued member of the community.