Celebrating 40 years of partnerships

Collaboration is a deeply held value in our region. Over four decades ago, the Santa Barbara County medical community had the foresight to come together and organize a more effective way of managing care for the most vulnerable among us. Fifteen years ago, the San Luis Obispo County medical community became an invaluable partner in expanding CenCal Health’s service to the area.

Since then, in good times and in challenging times, our partners have been unwavering in their commitment to the health and well-being of our communities. On December 6th, 2023, CenCal Health celebrated its milestone anniversary of 40 years serving the Central Coast by honoring a distinguished cohort of local healthcare partners.

“Tonight, we reflect on our journey, we celebrate our collective impact and achievements, and look forward to the future - because it is bright. Each and every one of you is vital to our success,” said CenCal Health CEO Marina Owen.

During the anniversary celebration, CenCal Health awarded medical practitioners, social service agencies, nonprofits, and business and government leaders noting their key contributions to strengthening our region's health system.

Receiving Partner Awards under the Transformation category and on behalf of their organizations were Good Samaritan Shelter Director of Housing & Quality Assurance Alexis Nshamamba (left), Community Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo CEO Elizabeth “Biz” Steinberg (center), and Doctors Without Walls Santa Barbara Street Medicine Executive Director Marguerite (Maggie) Sanchez.

CenCal Health COO Jordan Turetsky (left) presented CenCal Health Board Members Dr. René Bravo (center) and Dan Herlinger (right) with Partner Awards under the Board Leadership category.

Local Health Plans of California CEO Linnea Koopmans (left) stands with CenCal Health CEO Marina Owen (center) and 37th District State Assembly member Gregg Hart (right). The celebration included remarks from Assembly member Hart, who presented CenCal Health with a Certificate of Recognition.

Ms. Owen stands with leadership representatives from the Community Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo, also known as CAPSLO. CAPSLO — a CenCal Health provider of CalAIM services — is a nonprofit agency that provides resources and support programs to over 26,000 underserved individuals, the majority of whom live in San Luis Obispo County.