Human Services Agency of San Francisco

Print this page | Text size: small - large

Medi-Cal Health Connections

Medi-Cal is a public health insurance program which provides free or low-cost health care coverage for low-income Californians, including:

• families with children
• seniors
• persons with disabilities
• children in foster care
• pregnant women
• low-income people with specific diseases such as tuberculosis, breast and cervical cancer, or HIV/AIDS
• undocumented immigrants, who may be eligible for pregnancy or emergency-related benefits

Where Do I Apply for Medi-Cal?

Applications are also taken by phone and through the mail. For phone applications or to request an application be mailed to you please call (415) 863-9892. Or you can email us at SFMedi-Cal@sfgov.org to request that an application be mailed to you.

Assistance is available in many languages in person and by phone.

What if I Am Receiving CalWORKs?

Free Medi-Cal health coverage is part of the CalWORKs benefits package. This coverage usually continues for about six months after a family or individual goes off cash aid. There are provisions to continue Medi-Cal coverage after a family or individual goes off cash aid. Your representative will explain in more detail.

What if I Am Low-Income But not Eligible for Medi-Cal?

The Medi-Cal Health Connections staff helps those who are low income but not eligible for Medi-Cal access low-cost health insurance from a variety of other sources. Click on the following links to learn more about these programs.

• Healthy Families Program
• Healthy Kids Program
• Healthy San Francisco Program

What Services Does Medi-Cal Cover?

Medi-Cal coverage pays for medical visits, hospital care, prescription drugs, pregnancy-related treatment, dental and eye care, and other medical services. See a more detailed list of what Medi-Cal covers.

Are Dental Services Covered?

Some dental services are covered. Be sure to talk with the dentist to see what Medi-Cal covers before receiving treatment. See a list of Denti-Cal providers.

What Happens if I'm Eligible?

• We will send you a written notice listing each person in your household who is eligible and whether the coverage is free.
• The notice will have the name and phone number of your Medi-Cal representative. This is the person to contact if there are changes in your situation or if you have questions.
• Every person in your household who qualifies for Medi-Cal will receive a white plastic Benefits Information Card (BIC) in the mail. Take this card with you any time you see a health care provider.

Is Medi-Cal Always Free?

Usually Medi-Cal is free, but not always. Some people are responsible for a certain share of their monthly medical costs. This "share of cost" is based on your income and family size. Medi-Cal pays medical expenses beyond the share of cost amount. Your Medi-Cal representative will explain more.