Press Release

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For release October 20, 2005

Skyrocketing health insurance costs have left many people without health care coverage, making public health systems like Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS) even more valuable. The importance of public health systems like CCHS and the financial crisis threatening these systems nationwide are the topics of a new episode of the local cable television show "Get Ready, Get Healthy."

The new episode, titled "Health Care Financing," will air at 7:30 p.m. Monday, October 24 on Contra Costa Television, which is Channel 27 for Comcast cable viewers and Channel 32 for Astound viewers. The show also will be shown at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, October 27.

The episode, which provides information about CCHS services and how to get health insurance, features local health experts CCHS Director William Walker, MD, and Jessica Rothhaar with Health Access California, a statewide consumer advocacy coalition. Rothhaar talks about how people can get involved in the issue. CCHS patients and employees also are interviewed.

The show is a great way for the community to get a better understanding about what CCHS does, the people its serves and the importance of protecting health services.

"We take care of children, seniors, and working families unable to afford health insurance. Chances are we care for someone you love or even you," Walker said.

In addition to serving the uninsured, CCHS also has a health plan with more than 60,000 members including county employees. CCHS also provides care beyond its health centers and its hospital, Contra Costa Regional Medical Center, he said.

"Contra Costa Health Services also protects the community during disasters and prevents illness and suffering through our childhood immunizations and HIV/AIDS outreach programs. We also make sure the ambulance is there when you call 9-1-1 and ensure high standards at restaurant through inspections, " Walker said.

"Get Ready, Get Healthy" stars local television and radio veteran Doug Spangler and is produced through a partnership between the county health department, Contra Costa Health Services, and the county public access station, Contra Costa Television.

For more information about CCHS or health care coverage, visit CCHS' website at www.cchealth.org or call CCHS's Health Access Line at 1-877-503-9350.

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