As Millions Face Threats to Their Health Insurance Coverage, Experts Offer Practical Advice

October 28, 2025

House Resolution 1, known as the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" passed by Congressional Republicans, threatens to significantly reduce healthcare access for millions of Californians who purchase individual health insurance. The legislation would cut up to $800 billion from Medicaid funding and eliminate marketplace subsidies that currently make insurance affordable, particularly impacting freelancers, gig workers, and small business owners who don't qualify for employer-based or government coverage. The California Black Health Network hosted a webinar addressing these concerns, where experts warned that over sixteen million people could lose healthcare access due to stricter Medicaid eligibility requirements and unaffordable marketplace premiums.

Who is affected

Mia Gardner, a Los Angeles-based painter who relies on individual health insurance
Californians who buy their own health insurance (estimated over 16 million people at risk)
Freelancers, gig workers, and small business owners
Independent contractors
Working-class Californians earning too much for Medi-Cal but too little for private insurance
People currently receiving Medicaid/Medi-Cal benefits
State governments (particularly California)
Patients with chronic conditions requiring regular medications (such as asthma and diabetes)

What action is being taken

The California Black Health Network is hosting digital webinars on healthcare financing (the article describes the fifth and final session held on October 22)
Dr. Melissa Clarke is leading educational sessions focused on H.R.1's impacts and possible solutions
Community health centers are currently operating in nearly every county, providing primary care on a sliding scale based on income
Medication assistance programs like NeedyMeds.org and manufacturer discount card programs are available and operating

Why it matters

This legislation represents a potential reversal of progress made under the Affordable Care Act, threatening to leave millions without healthcare coverage at a time when access has expanded. The issue is particularly significant for vulnerable populations who fall into coverage gaps—earning too much for government assistance but too little to afford private insurance. Without subsidies, people will be forced to choose between basic necessities like rent and healthcare, leading many to forgo preventive care and risk allowing minor health issues to become major medical emergencies. The burden shifts from federal support to individuals and state governments, potentially creating a public health crisis as people ration medications and skip necessary medical checkups.

What's next

Patients losing Medicaid or Medi-Cal coverage are encouraged to appeal decisions quickly to avoid coverage lapses
Individuals should seek out community health centers through the California Social Services website
People should explore medication assistance programs such as NeedyMeds.org, manufacturer discount cards, and the CancerCare Copayment Assistance Foundation
Patients are advised to negotiate hospital fees and pursue charity care options when facing medical bills

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint