News

June 24, 2026By Physicians for a Healthy California CalHealthCares

As the first CalHealthCares cohorts complete their service commitments, new data suggests the program is helping physicians and dentists build lasting careers serving California communities.

According to a recent review of licensure data, 95% of awardees from both Cohort 1 and Cohort 2 continue to hold active California licenses after concluding their participation in the program. Among awardees who completed the full five-year service commitment, 98% maintained California licensure.

The findings offer an early look at the program's long-term impact beyond loan repayment assistance and required service obligations.

For many participants, CalHealthCares provided financial support that allowed them to focus on patient care and establish practices in communities with significant health care needs. "Receiving the debt relief has enabled me to focus on my efforts as a clinician and to be able to cater to my patients' needs," said Alexander Arin, M.D., a CalHealthCares awardee from Orange County. 

Another participant said the experience strengthened their commitment to serving patients in underserved communities. "After this experience over the last five years, I know exactly what needs to be tackled, where I need to be and where my work is needed the most," said Almira Opardija, M.D., an awardee from Fresno County

Awardees have also described the program as an important tool for expanding access to care for Medi-Cal patients throughout California. "Participating in CalHealthCares means participating in a program whose mission is to alleviate huge gaps in health care access," said Dr. Opardija.

Since its launch in 2019, CalHealthCares has awarded more than $200 million in loan repayment assistance to physicians and dentists serving Medi-Cal patients across California. Awardees have collectively provided more than 4 million appointments to Medi-Cal patients.