What is Medi-Cal?

Medi-Cal is a state and federally funded health coverage program that includes coverage for infants less than one year of age with family incomes up to 200% of the federal income guidelines, children between the ages of one and six with family incomes up to 133%, and children between 6 and 19 with family incomes below 100%. For example, a child between the ages of 1 and 6, in a family of four, with net family income at or below 133% of the federal poverty level ($30,677) would be eligible for no cost Medi-Cal).

This program is available to children up to age 19 who are California residents. There are no limitations to the amount of property/assets that the family can have for children’s coverage. Children who are either U.S. citizens, nationals or eligible qualified immigrants can receive no-cost comprehensive health, dental and vision insurance.

In Santa Clara County, Managed Care Medi-Cal members can choose either Santa Clara Family Health Plan or Blue Cross as their health plan. Families will receive dental coverage through Denti-Cal, and vision care through Vision Service Plan (VSP).

Benefits include:

  • Complete medical coverage including preventive check ups
  • Specialist care
  • Acupuncture and chiropractic care (only offered in some plans)
  • Inpatient and outpatient hospital services
  • Mental health care
  • Alcohol & drug treatment
  • Vision care
  • Dental care
  • Prescription coverage
  • A 24-hour nurse advice line
  • Health education and many other services

Children who do not meet the citizenship/immigration criteria listed above can receive no-cost restricted benefits that cover emergency and pregnancy-related services only. Other Medi-Cal programs may be available for families with incomes less than 100% of the federal poverty guidelines, but property and assets are considered.

If you are already receiving Medi-Cal, you can contact the new MediCal Service Center (MCSC) for information and services in Santa Clara County. The new MCSC toll free number is 758-3600. You can call between 8am and 5pm Monday through Friday to speak with a representative. General recorded information and resources can be accessed 24 hours every day.

For additional information on Medi-Cal, please visit the Department of Health Services website at www.dhcs.ca.gov.

To obtain more information about enrolling your child(ren), please call 1-888-255-5333.

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Health Insurance for Children in Santa Clara County