DLNews Health:

California's recent policy change regarding Medi-Cal, its state Medicaid program, marks a significant shift in healthcare accessibility, especially for undocumented residents. Previously, Medi-Cal was available to undocumented children (since 2016), young adults (since 2020), and adults over 50 (since 2022). However, starting Monday, the state is expanding this coverage to include all income-eligible residents regardless of age or immigration status. This expansion notably includes undocumented adults between the ages of 26 and 49, a group previously limited to restricted-scope Medi-Cal that only covered emergencies or childbirth.

Sarah Dar, the policy director for the California Immigrant Policy Center, highlighted the impact of this change, describing it as "life-changing" for many who have lacked regular access to healthcare services like doctor's appointments and medications. The state plans to automatically upgrade individuals in this age group from restricted-scope to full-scope Medi-Cal.

While there are concerns about the costs of this expansion, with the state budgeting $1.4 billion from the general fund for this fiscal year and $3.4 billion annually after that, proponents emphasize the importance of healthcare accessibility. Additionally, community health workers are actively informing the public about this new coverage and clarifying that using Medi-Cal will not negatively impact immigration processes, such as obtaining a Green Card, as it's a state-funded program and not considered in public-charge determinations.

Eligible individuals can sign up for coverage through the CoveredCA.com website or obtain a paper application at their county health department.