Over 40,000 thousand children in Los Angeles County have either limited basic health care coverage or none at all. They are undocumented children ages 0 to 18. Starting May 2016, California is providing full health care coverage for these children through Medi-Cal, regardless of their immigration status. State officials encourage families to sign their children up now.
No Action Required For Children Already Enrolled In Limited Scope Medi-Cal
At the present time, some undocumented children may be enrolled in restricted scope Medi-Cal, which only covers emergency services. These children will automatically be enrolled and do not need to fill out an additional application.
What You Need To Do If You Are Covered Under Another Program
If your child is currently covered under another health care coverage program, reach out to your program's member services or eligibility department about the Medi-Cal transition. They may ask you to complete an application for restricted scope Medi-Cal in preparation for the transition to full Medi-Cal benefits.
Medi-Cal Is Free For Those Who Qualify
Medi-Cal is premium-free for children whose family's income is below 160% of the Federal Poverty Level.*
How To Choose
Once the transition to full scope Medi-Cal occurs, you will have 60 days to choose a health plan. If you do not, one will be assigned for your children.
Are Your Kids Eligible?
L.A. Care encourages families with eligible children to apply now. Call one of our many representatives for more information at 1-888-839-9909.
You can apply in person at your local county human services office, or by appointment at one of our Family Resource Centers. You may also apply over the phone, with a mail-in application, or at your local clinic. You can receive help finding a clinic at www.californiahealthplus.com, or by calling 1-855-899-7587.
*Eligibility for Medi-Cal is based on household income, and children under the age of 19 qualify at a higher income level than adults. For example, a child is eligible for Medi-Cal if the family's household income is less than 266 percent of the Federal Poverty Level, or about $53,600 for a family of three and $75,650 for a family of five.