Monterey County health care workers push for universal health care

Nurses and other medical workers in Monterey County hosted a caravan in Salinas, Saturday, to advocate for universal healthcare.

These advocates, working with the California Nurses Association, say at least 2.7 million Californians are currently without health insurance.

A Monterey County Board Member in attendance says a portion of that comes from a large number of people who are uninsured in Monterey County.

“Without access to a primary care doctor, without access to quality affordable health care, people are suffering and we’re really seeing that with COVID," says Board Chair Wendy Root Askew.

With concern for many who may not be eligible or able to afford care, these advocates are trying to send a message to pass California Guaranteed Health Care for All (CalCare) on a national level.

But some advocates explain achieving it may not be easy.

“I think some people probably think, you know, it’s your responsibility, you should be fending for yourself and being independent or  maybe some people don’t want to pay if they think their taxes are going to increase but I think it really is a benefit to everybody," says Regina Gage.

Still, local advocates say protecting the most vulnerable is more important now than ever.

The health advocates also included the offices of Congressman Jimmy Panetta, Senator Anna Caballero and Assembly Member Robert Rivas in their route to make their voices heard.