Health Net, a major national insurance provider, has announced a major donation to multiple health providers in California — including providers in the Central Valley

According to a press release by the company, a donation of $3.55 million in grants will be made to 13 different health care organizations to improve patient data collection and reporting, which is considered a major priority in addressing gaps in the state’s health care system and improving health outcomes.

State law requires the collection of encounter data, the administrative information that describes health care interactions between patients and providers. This allows trends in health care to be analyzed to help identify better practices for patients enrolled in Medi-Cal.

“The accurate collection and reporting of encounter data is a critical piece of this puzzle,” said Carol Kim, vice president of community investments and public affairs for Health Net. “As this information allows us to measure health outcomes, track the needs of vulnerable patient populations and inform a stronger, better approach to care for California’s future.”

Health Net’s latest investment will consist of two grants — the first $2.55 million will go towards assisting the implementation of solutions that improve encounter data tracking through new technology and standardized practices for the selected Medi-Cal providers. Additionally, they will award grant of $1 million to Manatt Health, a consulting firm, to conduct a yearlong stakeholder engagement program.

Valley providers selected include Altura Centers for Health (Tulare), Family Healthcare Network (Tulare, Kings) and Omni Health (Kern, Fresno, Kings).

The Business Journal reached out to Health Net for specific amounts allocated to each provider, but have not yet received a reply.