Medi-Cal is California’s public health care insurance program. Medi-Cal is administered through the Department of Health Care Services supported by federal and state funding. Since the implementation of the Affordable Care Act, on January 1, 2014, Medi-Cal has expanded and is available to eligible individuals of all ages.
Medi-Cal is available to eligible California residents and is primarily based on income and household tax filing status. Your eligibility specialist will determine which Medi-Cal program you are eligible based on your unique situation. Medi-Cal may be free of cost or with a monthly share of cost.
If you are not eligible to receive Medi-Cal benefits your application may also be reviewed for other health insurance coverage through Covered California.
Medi-Cal covers health, dental, and vision services. Coverage is available for individuals who meet eligibility criteria …. (must be a resident of California). Restricted benefits (limited to pregnancy and postpartum services) may be available for adults over the income threshold for other Medi-Cal programs assuming all other eligibility criteria are met.
If you are determined eligible your coverage begins on the first day of the application month. A Benefit Issuance Card (BIC) will be issued to you. Your BIC is a white card with blue lettering or has a picture of the California flower. This card should be retained and must be presented at time of service. If you are found eligible to full medical coverage you will also receive an additional card from Central California Alliance. Make sure to present both cards at the time of service including pharmacy/prescription services.
Starting January 1, 2024, more people will be eligible for full scope Medi-Cal benefits regardless of their immigration status.
If you qualify and currently have restricted Medi-Cal:
You will get a letter in the mail telling you if and when you will get full Medi-Cal. You do not need to fill out a new application for full scope Medi-Cal. If you qualify, you will be automatically enrolled.
Full Medi-Cal is different from the restricted Medi-Cal you may have now.
Restricted Medi-Cal only covers emergency services.
Starting in January 2024, assets will no longer count toward your Medi-Cal eligibility. These items include bank accounts, cash, second vehicles and homes, and other financial resources.
Income will continue to be counted.
If you believe you may be eligible for Medi-Cal once the new changes take place you are encouraged to apply.
Contact your local county office today for more information.
