DHCS implemented the Seniors Extension to provide a comprehensive, state-funded Medi-Cal to individuals age 50 or older who are not eligible for the federally-funded, comprehensive Medi-Cal due to of their immigration status. Included are people age 50 or older who were enrolled in restricted-scope Medi-Cal before the May 1 expansion for seniors was implemented.
“Thousands more Californians now have the health coverage they need to live long, healthy lives,” said DHCS Director Michelle Baass. “When all Californians have access to equitable, quality health care, our entire health care system is stronger.”
Extending health coverage to older Californians benefits people of all ages. Illness and injury do not discriminate. When all Californians have access to preventative services, regular healthcare, and home care, they stay healthier and avoid emergency rooms and nursing homes. Eliminating disparities in health coverage is key to addressing racial disparities in health.
The state has worked in recent years to expand comprehensive health coverage to more Californians. In May 2016, children under the age of 19 became eligible for full Medi-Cal benefits, and in January 2020, full Medi-Cal was extended to young adults ages 19-25, regardless of childcare status. immigration. Previously, these individuals were only qualified for narrow-scope medical services, such as emergency, prenatal and long-term care. Now they can access the full range of benefits available to all Medi-Cal recipients, including free/low-cost quality health care, mental health services, mental health services, substance use, vision and dental care, and home and community services.
The next step in California’s commitment to a healthy California for all is the expansion of comprehensive Medi-Cal coverage to approximately 700,000 non-status adults ages 26-49 and older. satisfactory immigration status for federally funded full Medi-Cal, effective January 1, 2024.
“These four expansions will ultimately provide all low-income Californians with access to affordable, quality health care services,” Baass said. “The expanded coverage and new enrollments are largely the result of increased advocacy and awareness efforts undertaken by our county and community partners. Together, we are building a healthy California for all.
