State honors NIHD for Exceptional Patient Care Progress

The three members of NIHD’s Quality team, Ali Feinberg, Michelle Garcia, and Jessica Nott show the certificate of state recognition earned for Medi-Cal patient care improvements. Photo by Barbara Laughon/NIHD
 

Northern Inyo Healthcare District (NIHD) earned honors from the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) as one of the state’s top performers in improving care for Medi-Cal patients. The recognition reflects the dedication of NIHD’s care teams and their focused efforts to improve the health and well-being of the Eastern Sierra community.

Medi-Cal provides low-cost health coverage to eligible low-income individuals, including children, families, seniors, and people with disabilities. Roughly one in four of NIHD’s patients rely on Medi-Cal, making the program a vital part of the District’s ability to serve the community.

The recognition comes through the DHCS Quality Incentive Pool (QIP) program, which rewards public hospitals for reaching important care goals, such as helping people manage chronic conditions, complete preventive screenings, and receive follow-up care after hospital visits. Hospitals that meet or exceed these goals receive additional funding to support and improve their services.

This is NIHD’s fourth year participating in the QIP program. According to Ali Feinberg, NIHD’s Manager of Quality, the District made a bold choice following the early years of the COVID-19 pandemic. “We committed to reporting on the maximum number of measures allowed, and we’ve continued that every year since,” Feinberg said. “That’s a big lift for our team, and very few hospitals in California choose to take it on. Many have dropped off because it is hard work to sustain, but our team has stayed with it and reached those goals, year after year.”

Feinberg said much of the work happens quietly behind the scenes, with clinic teams building new workflows, improving patient access, and tracking outcomes. “It’s been a true team effort,” Feinberg added. “It’s really rewarding to see all of it come together.”

Feinberg credits Quality team members Michelle Garcia and Jessica Nott for helping lead the way.

Because of this year’s performance, NIHD earned $3 million in QIP incentive payments. NIHD is reinvesting these funds into patient services to expand screening programs, shorten wait times, and improve overall care for Medi-Cal patients. These investments ultimately benefit all patients and help NIHD grow its programs while maintaining a strong focus on access, equity, and quality.

NIHD’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Adam Hawkins, praised the team’s dedication. “This recognition reflects what we’ve always known, that our teams are deeply committed to doing what’s right for our patients,” Dr. Hawkins said. “Quality care isn’t just about meeting goals. It’s about listening, following through, and making sure every patient is treated with care and respect. I’m incredibly proud of our staff.”

Feinberg noted that changes at the federal level might affect how the QIP program is structured and funded in the future. While the details are still unfolding, NIHD’s Quality team is staying informed and preparing to adapt as needed.