SDSU to study impact of expanding healthcare coverage to undocumented

The California Department of Insurance has commissioned a economic impact study on the state’s healthcare coverage expansion for undocumented immigrants.

San Diego State University’s School of Public Health will conduct the statewide study, it was announced Wednesday, which will examine how this increased access to Medi-Cal coverage and Covered California affects individuals, employers and the state overall.

It is expected to be the first evaluation of California’s Medi-Cal expansions that include all income-qualified residents, regardless of immigration status.

In a statement, the Department of Insurance said SDSU’s School of Public Health was chosen “due to its nationally recognized expertise in public health, health care policy and advanced economic modeling.”

Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara said, “In an era of constant misinformation, it is imperative to provide data rooted in rigorous, independent analysis rather than politics or partisanship.” He added that this independent study will be vital for fiscal decision-making in Sacramento, especially as vulnerable communities often face cuts during budget crises.”

The study is expected to be completed sometime in 2027. SDSU researchers will utilize methods such as tax simulation models and economic impact models that typically aren’t available to legislative offices, according to the Department of Insurance.

“This study offers an important opportunity to understand how California’s expanded access to care has shaped the lives of residents and the state’s health system,” said Wilton Choi, assistant professor of health economics at SDSU and principal investigator of the commissioned study.

“Our goal is to provide a clear, evidence-based picture that can help inform future decisions and policy discussions at the legislative level.”