The program focuses on delivering care in a person’s lived environment, such as street encampments, rather than requiring patients to travel to a community health center, often without reliable transportation. TrueCare’s Street Medicine Team, made up of specialty-trained providers, meets patients where they are — reducing barriers, building trust through consistent and compassionate care, and expanding access to essential medical services. Services include treatment for illness and minor injuries, immunizations, integrated behavioral health, and more. By meeting people where they are, the program helps patients connect to ongoing primary care at nearby TrueCare health centers, ensuring more individuals receive timely and effective care.

“At TrueCare, we have always been committed to meeting our patients where they are, both physically and in their health journey,” said Michelle Gonzalez, CEO of TrueCare. “The Street Medicine Program is a natural extension of that mission, bringing compassionate, high-quality care directly into the communities who need it most. Our goal is to ensure every person feels seen, valued, and supported, no matter their circumstances.”

San Diego County has one of the largest homeless populations in California, with 9,905 individuals experiencing homelessness according to the 2025 Point-in-Time Count. Many face chronic illnesses, mental health challenges, and substance use disorders, creating complex healthcare needs. Limited access to care makes Street Medicine programs essential, and TrueCare’s strategically located health centers near high concentrations of unsheltered individuals provide a critical opportunity to address care gaps. When more comprehensive or ongoing treatment is needed, patients can be referred back to these TrueCare locations, helping to improve health outcomes while reducing hospitalizations and emergency department visits.

To schedule an appointment:

The post TrueCare Launches Street Medicine Program to Serve People Experiencing Homelessness appeared first on TrueCare.

Her degree (communication) was unrelated to health care, and Gonzalez had no intention of staying in the field. The main appeal of the job was that it was close to her home and the university.

Beginning her journey as a program assistant in an entry-level role, Gonzalez quickly developed a fondness for the local nonprofit and its high-minded mission: providing quality health care and wellness services to underserved communities, regardless of income or insurance status. Her early connection to community health mirrored CSUSM’s commitment to accelerating social mobility through leaders who serve with purpose.

What Gonzalez imagined to be a brief pit stop instead turned into a rewarding career, and over two decades, she climbed the rungs all the way to the top – she was appointed president and CEO in 2020, the same year that North County Health Services was reborn as TrueCare.

To learn more about Michelle’s story, check out the Cal State San Marcos website…Read more
 

 

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As a Federally-Qualified Health Center governed by state and federal law, participation in the political process is a necessity for TrueCare to advocate for policies that provide whole-person care and access for the marginalized patients we serve. Through TrueCare’s mobilization around voter registration, legislative advocacy, and collaborations with elected officials by engaging the public in healthcare conversations such as in this press conference, our organizational mission of catalyzing for healthy and supported communities moves closer to reality.

Despite the rapidly changing landscape of healthcare policy in California and across the United States, TrueCare’s Advocacy & Government Affairs team gladly serves as a translator of these developments to patients, staff, and TrueCare supporters and empowers them to exercise their right to participate in and shape public policy.

To schedule an appointment:

The post Collaboration in Action: Congressman Levin and Senator Schiff Visit TrueCare appeared first on TrueCare.

TrueCare, a nonprofit community health center serving North San Diego and Riverside Counties, hosted an opening celebration for its new Richmar Behavioral Health Center in San Marcos (309 Richmar Ave, Suite 101, San Marcos, CA 92069) on October 8. The event brought together TrueCare leaders, staff, supporters, and local elected officials to mark an important milestone in expanding access to behavioral health care in North County San Diego.

Conveniently located near the CA-78 Freeway, the new 2,150-square-foot facility is designed to meet the growing need for behavioral health services in the region. The upgraded space and provides patients with a welcoming environment where they feel seen, valued, and supported and features eight private consult rooms for individual therapy, a large community room dedicated to group therapy sessions, as well as free on-site parking for patients.

During the celebration, Michelle Gonzalez, CEO of TrueCare, highlighted the organization’s commitment to expanding access to behavioral health services, reducing barriers to care, and supporting the community’s overall well-being. Additional attendees included the Honorable Mayor of San Marcos Rebecca Jones, Deputy Mayor Mike Sannella, Kyle Hermann representing Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones, and Adrienne Cisneros-Selekman representing Supervisor Jim Desmond.

TrueCare’s licensed behavioral health specialists provide therapy, group sessions, medication management, and treatment for conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders. The center operates under TrueCare’s Integrated Behavioral Health Model, which connects patients to both primary care and mental health services within one coordinated system. Through assessments, therapy, and medication management, patients are guided on a path toward healing, empowerment, and improved well-being.

While TrueCare’s Integrated Behavioral Health model imbeds mental health into primary care settings, the new Richmar Behavioral Health Center is designed to put mental health at the forefront—creating a dedicated space for healing, connection, and whole-person care.

New patients can schedule a primary care visit at one of TrueCare’s locations today to receive a referral for mental health services or email philanthropy@truecare.org to schedule a tour.

To schedule an appointment:

The post TrueCare Hosts Opening Celebration of First Standalone Behavioral Health Center appeared first on TrueCare.

TrueCare, a nonprofit community health center serving North San Diego and Riverside counties, is proud to announce the relocation and expansion of its specialty behavioral health services to a new site, TrueCare Richmar Behavioral Health, located off Richmar Avenue (309 Richmar Ave., Suite 101, San Marcos, CA 92069).

Conveniently located near the CA-78 Freeway, the new location is thoughtfully designed to meet the growing need for behavioral health services in the community. The upgraded space features eight private consult rooms for individual therapy, as well as a large community room specifically designed for group therapy sessions. The new center also includes designated patient parking to ensure ease of access for all visitors.

“One in five Americans will experience a mental health crisis in their lifetime,” said Briana Cardoza Chief of Business Development at TrueCare. “This expanded space allows us to increase access to quality mental health care and better serve our patients in a safe, welcoming environment where they feel seen, heard, and valued every step of the way.”

At TrueCare, behavioral health services are delivered with compassion and a deep commitment to improving overall well-being. TrueCare’s licensed behavioral health specialists offer personalized, comprehensive care for a wide range of mental health conditions, including, anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD and trauma-related conditions, Schizophrenia and psychotic disorders, chemical dependency, and Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) for substance use disorders. Through assessments, therapy, and medication management, patients are guided on a journey toward healing, empowerment, and improved well-being.

TrueCare operates on an Integrated Behavioral Health Model (IBH), which brings together physical and mental health care within the primary care setting. This model is grounded in research around Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and the long-term effects of toxic stress on brain development and chronic illness. By embedding behavioral health into every stage of care, TrueCare creates a streamlined care experience that improves outcomes and ensures that patient mental health is always a priority.

New patients can schedule a primary care visit at one of TrueCare’s locations today to receive a referral for a mental health services. Please note that TrueCare’s psychiatry services will continue at the current San Marcos Health Center on Valpreda Road for the time being. Patients with questions are encouraged to call or text (760) 736-6767. To learn more about TrueCare’s behavioral health services or to find a location near you, please visit truecare.org.

To schedule an appointment:

The post TrueCare Expands Behavioral Health Services with New San Marcos Location appeared first on TrueCare.

If you are interested in joining a team of like-minded and compassionate professionals who are dedicated to providing essential services to those who need them, TrueCare is the place for you. Still, getting a job is not as simple as sending an application, so we are here to help you navigate the process. You might be wondering, what is the interview process at TrueCare? Let’s get into it! 

What Is the Interview Process at TrueCare?

Remember that this is a general overview – this process may not be indicative of your experience. Everyone’s experience is different depending on their circumstances, like the role you are applying for. The interview process at TrueCare is typically 6 steps long:

1. Submit Your Application
2. Interview Request
3. Screening Interview
4. A Series of In-person/Video Interviews 
5. Job Offer
6. Celebrate Getting Your Dream Job! 

Here’s what to know about each stage of this process. 

1. Submit Your Application

The interview process at TrueCare starts with an application. Once you apply, whether on our site or through one of our job posting partners, expect your application to be reviewed within 48 hours, though this timeline is subject to change depending on the number of applicants.

This, however, is because we believe you deserve to have real-life humans reviewing your application – not AI tools! Please make sure all information and dates on your application are accurate, as we will verify this during the offer stage. 

“What I think a lot of people don’t realize is how important accuracy is when they’re completing the application,” said Becky Sanchez, the Talent Acquisition Director at TrueCare. “We do have a lot of issues where we have to go back and say, ‘This is what you said, but this is what was reported.’ So make sure you are being accurate. A simple thing like looking up your work history on the IRS website can help with that,” said Sanchez.

But don’t worry; this doesn’t mean that we expect you to fill out your entire 30-year career history! We understand how complicated that can be for you, so we only go back five years. Just be prepared to discuss any gaps in your employment history. 

2. Interview Request

After reviewing your application, we will be in touch. If you are a good fit for our clinic, you will receive a request from the recruiter to schedule an interview. This invite will be accompanied by a calendar link to schedule the interview at your convenience.

“It’s important for us that candidates can schedule a time that works best for them, and once you set a date, it’s automatically put on the recruiter’s calendar,” said Sanchez. “We know that making time to take an interview can be difficult, especially in our industry. A lot of times, we have providers interview with us who have to talk before or after hours. So we are very accommodating and try to flex. If the times provided don’t work, all you have to do is tell us, and we’ll work with you,” she said.

3. Screening Interview

The next part of the interview process at TrueCare is a phone screening interview! You will speak with a recruiter for about 30 to 45 minutes and discuss your experience, your resume, any accomplishments you’d like to share, any gaps in your job history, salary expectations, and total comp expectations. 

“An important part of this step is asking you questions around culture fit because it’s really important that we maintain the culture we have at TrueCare,” said Sanchez. “We like to make sure that we’re hiring people that align with our mission-driven organization and would work well in our diverse team – this also helps ensure that candidates are taking a role that they would enjoy and succeed in,” she said.

But we understand that this dialogue can’t be one-sided. We will also discuss everything that we bring to the table at True Care, including benefits, comp packages, and what it’s like to work at our clinic so that you can determine if this is the right organization for you.

4. A Series of Interviews

After the screening interview, you will have another interview with the Hiring Manager. This stage varies depending on the role you are applying for. These interviews can be on-site or on a video call, depending on the location and team. 

“For most cases, it’s just the hiring manager first,” said Sanchez, “but I’ve seen a couple of cases on the provider side, for example, where they might meet with two people on the first round. Regardless, the hiring manager is always involved.”

If you advance to the next stage, you may have another interview with members of the team. This, however, depends on the level of the role for which you are applying.

5. Job Offer

After interviewing, if you have been identified as a finalist, the recruiter will typically talk through expectations with you again to check-in and see how you are feeling after completing the process. If you are still interested, our team will work to create an offer that we hope excites you, based on your experience and internal/external factors. 

We will then give you a call and give you a verbal offer. If you accept, we will send a written letter. From there, we initiate your background check, physical, drug test, and tie up some loose ends on the back end, like ensuring you have the necessary credentials and licenses. 

We will also ensure that the dates on your application are accurate, so make sure you carefully fill it out. If there are any discrepancies, we will discuss them with you. 

6. Celebrate Getting Your Dream Job!

Congratulations – you have the job! We can’t wait to work with you. This stage is, of course, the most fun. Celebrate with your loved ones because you have secured a job at a clinic that does meaningful work and makes a true difference in people’s lives.

Whether that means cracking open a bottle of wine, going for a hike or run, or having a nice and quiet movie night at home with your family, you deserve it. 

Ready to Do Meaningful Work? Apply to Begin the Interview Process at TrueCare and Enjoy Working Your Dream Job!

Again, we would like to reiterate that the interview process at TrueCare depends on your role and circumstances – while you can generally expect to proceed through each of the steps listed above, these things can change. At TrueCare, we’re not just offering a job—we’re offering a chance to be part of something bigger. You’ll be joining a diverse team of compassionate professionals dedicated to providing the best care possible while prioritizing professional development, personal growth, and work-life balance. 

With our supportive, mission-driven culture and the opportunity to make a real difference, TrueCare is where your career can flourish. Visit our Careers page to apply!

The post What Is the Interview Process at TrueCare? appeared first on TrueCare.

We understand that you may be experiencing longer-than-usual wait times when contacting TrueCare, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Our team is currently handling an unprecedented number of calls due to several unforeseen circumstances, including Scripps Health ending its contract with Anthem Blue Cross that has left many individuals and families in need of a new provider, the onset of flu season, and a rise in COVID-19 cases. We recognize how frustrating it can be to wait, and we truly appreciate your understanding during this time.

To help you reach us more efficiently, you can also contact us via text at (760) 736-6767, or if you’re a current patient, through your MyChart account.

If you are experiencing COVID symptoms such as difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, confusion, trouble waking up or staying awake, or pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or face, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room immediately.

Thank you for your patience and continued trust in us as we work diligently to serve all of our patients.

The post Call Center Hold Times appeared first on TrueCare.

TrueCare recognized early on the benefits that WIC services could offer our patients. Our WIC program began as a pilot and, with Congressional support, evolved into a permanent local WIC agency. Today, we serve our communities through six offices in Encinitas, Escondido, Oceanside, Ramona, San Marcos, and Valley Center.

A Brief History

Over the years, WIC has transformed into a successful community-based public health program. Significant milestones include:

• 1978: The introduction of nutrition education, a healthier food package low in salt, sugar and fat, and referrals to social services.
• 1992 and 1997: New programs added to increase breastfeeding rates and to improve public support for breastfeeding.
• 2004: The USDA launched the WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor Initiative to provide peer support and counseling from experienced breastfeeding mothers to new moms. TrueCare WIC was a recipient of the initial Breastfeeding Peer Counseling funds, and the program continues today.

WIC has also enhanced its food packages over the years to include fruits, vegetables, and culturally sensitive substitutes, with additional foods for mothers who exclusively breastfeed.

Making An Impact

Today, TrueCare WIC serves nearly 10,700 women and children monthly. We are recognized for our best practices in California and nationally. Our breastfeeding programs, lactation services, and innovative cross-departmental integrative processes have significantly increased access to health care and other social services for WIC participants.

Studies consistently show that WIC participation leads to better health outcomes. WIC members have reduced premature births, low birth-weight babies, fetal and infant deaths, and lower incidences of low-iron anemia. The program also increases access to early prenatal care and regular health care, improving diet quality and ensuring key nutrient intake during critical growth periods.

Promoting a Healthy Start

Some of the many benefits of WIC at TrueCare include:

• Nutritious Food: A monthly stipend to buy healthy foods, such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, milk, eggs, bread, and more!
• Breastfeeding support: Education, breast pump loan program, and lactation consultations.
• Nutrition education: Healthy living tips from Registered Dietitians and other nutrition experts who specialize in nutrition for mothers and their children.
• Referrals: Connection to medical and social services tailored to participants’ needs.

Most importantly, at TrueCare WIC, we provide friendly, professional support for the unique health care needs of mothers, infants, and young children.

As we celebrate this remarkable 50-year legacy, TrueCare WIC is grateful for our talented and dedicated WIC staff and our collaborative partnerships with TrueCare providers. We look forward to continuing this vital work for another 50 years and beyond!

For more information, visit our TrueCare WIC webpage.

The post TrueCare WIC Celebrates 50 Years of Supporting Families appeared first on TrueCare.

Through this expansion, TrueCare aims to enhance balanced health care for our communities. The TrueCare Vista Way Health Campus is conveniently located just off the 78 freeway and near Tri-City Medical Center.

“At TrueCare, our passion for helping people access quality health care in the pursuit of health balance has been the cornerstone of our mission for over 50 years,” says Briana Cardoza, Chief Business Development Officer at TrueCare. “We believe in building trusting relationships with our patients, ensuring they feel supported and cared for at every step of their health journey. With the expansion of services at our Vista Way Health Campus, we can make an even greater impact on the lives of people in our communities.”

Recognized as a patient-centered medical home by the National Committee for Quality Assurance, TrueCare’s primary care providers address whole-person health. Realizing preventive care leads to better health outcomes, TrueCare providers prioritize building trusting relationships so patients feel empowered to get cancer screenings, manage diabetes, address heart health, and receive immunizations alongside a wide range of comprehensive services.

The growth of TrueCare’s services at the Vista Way Health Campus received generous community support at our recent ILLUMINATION gala, which raised over $400,000. This funding directly impacts local families and individuals by helping us enhance health care services.

TrueCare’s services and programs are available to everyone, including community members who are uninsured. TrueCare offers a sliding scale of low to no-cost services for self-paying patients who qualify, along with flexible payment options. The health center also accepts a wide variety of health insurance plans, including Medi-Cal, Medicare, and some commercial health plans.

To schedule an appointment:

The post Primary Care Services Added to Vista Way Health Campus appeared first on TrueCare.

On behalf of KUSI viewers, Anchor Logan Byrnes of Good Evening San Diego talked to Lance about our services and the impact we are making in the lives of nearly 65,000 patients as well as community members through our programs.

Additionally, they discussed how TrueCare is a safety net, providing convenient locations where affordable medical and dental care are patient-centered and available to everyone regardless of insurance or income status. As a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), we accept a wide variety of health insurance plans, including Medi-Cal, Medicare, Covered California insurances, and some commercial health plans. We also offer a sliding scale of low to no-cost services for self-paying patients who qualify, along with flexible payment options.

At TrueCare, we appreciate every opportunity to share our message of commitment in the pursuit of health for all. We are grateful to KUSI for taking the time to talk to us.

To learn more, check out the KUSI interview …Watch it here

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