Medi-Cal program facing doctor shortage in Needles

By Cat Smith

News West

NEEDLES - The medical program in Needles known as Medi-Cal is facing a doctor shortage that impacts low-income and indigent patients who are being forced to seek medical care and physicians elsewhere.

Most recently, a Medi-Cal primary care physician stopped taking new patients on the program, but will continue to provide medical services for current patients.

“With the lack of physicians in the Needles area, patients are seeking treatment in area hospitals,” said Sue Julius, an office assistant with Transitional Services in Needles.

Those who are new to the area and on the program will have to seek medical services either at the Needles Health Clinic or Colorado River Medical Center.

A pregnant woman leaving the health department who did not want to give her name, said she was glad to have the service available to her.

“I don't have a car and this is the only service that is close for me,” she said.

She said she was “more than satisfied” with the services she is receiving.

Medi-Cal is available to those who meet a specific financial criteria and is commonly known for recipients on entitlement programs.

The state program is also for children under the age of 18 who cannot get medical attention due to the parents' low or no income.