The California Medical Association (CMA) has partnered with Covered California to promote “Get Covered 2021,” a broad coalition driving a nationwide initiative promoting practical steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and help the more than 16 million uninsured Americans who are eligible for Medicaid or financial help through the health exchange marketplace to get enrolled now.

COVID-19 underscores why insurance matters — but not just because of the pandemic. Coverage can help people from all walks of life stay healthy, and it can provide a pathway to care for conditions like cancer, diabetes and others that affect our lives and those of our loved ones.

CMA, Covered California, and the other organizations and individuals who endorse Get Covered 2021 are unified in their commitment to ensuring Americans have coverage that keeps them safe, healthy and strong. This commitment is based on the recognition that responding effectively to COVID and getting everyone insured are critical to advancing health equity and addressing the disparities in health status and care delivery. Health equity begins with access to care, and access to care comes with having health insurance.

Physicians are the most trusted voices for their patients on health care issues, and your participation will make a significant impact in reducing the number of uninsured and promoting a healthier California.

Please visit GetCovered2021.org for more information and invite your patients, friends, family, and community members to do the same. There you will find tips and a digital toolkit—including sample social media images ad messages you can use to get the word out about the importance of getting covered.