The Health Access Training Project works to raise the level of awareness, knowledge, and skills with regards to the local health care system, community resources, and health coverage options. Training supports Family Resource Center staff, and local professionals who work with children ages 0-5 and their families. The project also advocates to reduce barriers to health care for children.
Background
Health Access for Children in SLO County

It has become increasingly complex to access health care services and insurance coverage. Many families struggle with understanding the health care options they have available to them. Others need assistance in navigating the complex insurance and provider systems. And gaps in services persist for children on both Medi-Cal and private insurance.
The Children and Families Commission of San Luis Obispo County allocates funds and advocates for quality programs and services, supporting children prenatal to age 5, to ensure that every child is healthy and ready to learn in school. Over the past several years, Commissioners and First 5 SLO County staff have been creating and enacting a strategic plan to address the health care needs of children ages 0-5 and their families.
The Health Access Training Project provides resources to local professionals so they can best support families in accessing health care and coverage for their children. Staffing is provided by Carsel Consulting Group: Becca Carsel, MS, Project Director; Natalie Rhodes, Project Coordinator; and Joel Diringer, JD, MPH, Project Consultant.
The Children and Families Commission of San Luis Obispo County allocates funds and advocates for quality programs and services, supporting children prenatal to age 5, to ensure that every child is healthy and ready to learn in school. Over the past several years, Commissioners and First 5 SLO County staff have been creating and enacting a strategic plan to address the health care needs of children ages 0-5 and their families.
The Health Access Training Project provides resources to local professionals so they can best support families in accessing health care and coverage for their children. Staffing is provided by Carsel Consulting Group: Becca Carsel, MS, Project Director; Natalie Rhodes, Project Coordinator; and Joel Diringer, JD, MPH, Project Consultant.
Project Goals
- To increase capacity in San Luis Obispo County to connect children ages 0-5 with available healthcare services by:
- Providing professional development trainings and in-services to key contacts who interface with families.
- Distributing updates and resources on health care access and health via website, e-newsletters and other means
- To work to decrease barriers to healthcare access for children ages 0-5 in San Luis Obispo County.