Creation of safety-net-based provider networks under the California Health Care Coverage Initiative: interim findings.

Inherent Challenges in the Safety Net In contrast to the private sector, networks based on safety-net systems are less common for a number of reasons. Safety-net providers typically consist of local government health care facilities, Federally-Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), and other private entities, including clinics and providers willing to provide free or reduced-cost care to lowincome uninsured and Medicaid-insured individuals. When safety-net care is reimbursed, it is ultimately financed through tax revenues redistributed to providers in various forms, including budget allocations and other arrangements. Limited patient payments for care as well as service delivery and infrastructure building grants may supplement these revenues. 13 Over time, the