Non-profits sue Community Health, accuse provider of misuse of Medi-Cal funds [Video]

FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – The attorney for two Fresno non-profits, Fresno Building Healthy Communities and Cultiva La Salud, has filed a lawsuit against Community Health System.

They claim the valley healthcare staple has ‘misused’ Medi-Cal dollars, aimed to improve care for Medi-Cal and uninsured patients.

Money, the plaintiffs argue was diverted away from Downtown Fresno’s Community Regional Medical Center (CRMC) and was instead sent to Clovis, to build up Clovis Community Medical Center.

Sandra Celedon, President and CEO of Fresno Building Healthy Communities, says that has taken resources away from an area they believe has the greatest need.

“Whether you’re white, black, Latino, working class, or high income, none of those demographics should matter in terms of the level of service that you receive at the hospital,” Celedon said. “Community Health System has created these stark differences.”

Celedon also claims they’ve uncovered a dollar amount used on Clovis in the 10-figures.

“We’ve …