The United States leads the world in both public and private per capita health expenditures, spending more on healthcare per person than any other country. Medicaid accounts for 19% of the nation’s healthcare spending. 27.2% of the total population was covered by Medicaid in California in 2023.
1. What is Medicaid in California?
Medicaid is the national healthcare program that provides medical assistance to low-income people across the U.S. In California, Medicaid goes by a different name—Medi-Cal.
Medicaid in California covers doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, mental health care, dental services, and more. It also helps vulnerable groups like pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities get the care they need without the burden of high medical bills.
What is Medicaid known as in California?
Each state runs its own version of Medicaid. In California, Medicaid is called Medi-Cal. So, don’t let the name change confuse you. Medicaid or Medi-Cal is still the same federally and state-funded program to provide healthcare coverage for low-income individuals.
What is the difference between Medicaid and Medicare in California?
Both programs provide healthcare assistance, but:
- Medicaid is for low-income people, regardless of age.
- Medicare is for individuals aged 65 and older, people under 65 with disabilities, and those with End-Stage Renal Disease, regardless of income.
>>> Read more: How Does MediCal Work? A Comprehensive Guide
2. How to Qualify for Medicaid in California
Medicaid eligibility is determined by income level.
What is the income level for Medicaid in California?
Income limits for Medicaid in California may vary based on age, household size, disability, and others.
For example, according to KFF, pregnant women with incomes at or below 322% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) qualify for Medicaid in California as of May 2024. For a family of three with children aged 6-18, the income limit is 133% of the FPL; with children aged 1-5, it is up to 142% of the FPL.
California has expanded Medicaid coverage, including adults aged 19 to 64 with incomes at or below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). This expansion extended eligibility not only to low-income parents but also to adults without dependent children, who were previously excluded from Medicaid coverage.
Or, if you already participate in one of certain government assistance programs, you’re likely eligible. These include:
- CalFresh/SNAP
- SSP/SSI
- CalWORKs/TANF
- Refugee Assistance
- Foster Care or Adoption Assistance Program
Other eligible factors:
- Over 65 years old
- Blind or disabled
- Pregnant
- Living in a nursing or care home
- Under 21 years old
- A refugee temporarily residing in the U.S.
What Disqualifies You from Medicaid in California?
- Income above the limit: In most cases, people are disqualified from Medicaid in California because they earn too much to meet the eligibility requirements.
- Failure to provide documentation: If you can’t provide proof of income, citizenship/immigration status, or other necessary documents, your application may be delayed or denied.
- Medical necessity: If your health condition isn’t considered severe enough under Medicaid’s guidelines, you may not qualify for certain benefits.
3. What Benefits Does Medicaid Cover in California?
Medi-Cal covers many medical services, helping low-income Californians get the care they need without huge medical bills. Some services may require a small co-payment, but overall, Medi-Cal makes healthcare much more affordable.
Under the Affordable Care Act, all Medicaid programs must cover Essential Health Benefits.
These benefits include outpatient services, emergency care, hospitalization, maternity and newborn care, and treatment for mental health and substance use disorders. Medicaid also covers prescription medications, physical and occupational therapy, preventive services, chronic disease management, and dental and vision care.
Besides, something you might not expect – if you qualify for Medicaid in California, you might also be eligible for the Lifeline program, a government initiative that offers free or discounted phone services. While it’s not technically a Medicaid benefit, it’s a huge support for low-income people.
IMPORTANT: The government does not subsidize devices. Lifeline programs cover basic service costs only. Free or discounted devices, upgrade plans, or top-ups are exclusive benefits provided by AirTalk Wireless as part of our promotional offers. Terms and conditions apply. Limited-time promotion—offers vary by state, stock availability, and eligibility.
4. How to Apply for Lifeline as a Medicaid Beneficiary in California
If you’re on Medicaid in California, you already know how valuable it is to have affordable healthcare. And now you know that you may also qualify for affordable phone or internet service through the Lifeline program.
Lifeline is a government program that makes phone and internet services more affordable for low-income households. If you’re eligible, you can receive a monthly discount of up to $9.25 on your phone bill, or up to $34.25 if you live on Tribal lands. And if you enroll through AirTalk Wireless, you can get a free government phone in California, plus a free SIM card with unlimited talk, text, and data every month.
As a Medicaid beneficiary, you may need to:
- Call your doctor to schedule appointments and get medical advice.
- Receive prescription reminders or updates from your pharmacy.
- Stay in touch with family and caregivers who support you.
- Access emergency services. Anytime. Anywhere.
With Lifeline, you can do all this without worrying about expensive phone bills and AirTalk Wireless makes it even better.
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to getting your free or discounted phone service:
Step 1: Visit the AirTalk Wireless website and enter your California zip code.
Step 2: Choose your plan.
AirTalk Wireless offers two main plan options:
- Free Phone + Service Plan: Get a free cell phone with a phone plan.
- Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): You can keep using your current phone while enjoying Lifeline service benefits.
Step 3: If you choose to get a free device, now select one.
AirTalk Wireless offers 50+ options of free phones. Please note that the availability of these devices varies depending on your location.
Step 4: Submit your eligibility documents.
Step 5: Wait for approval and receive your phone.
>>> Read more: How To Get A MediCal Free Phone: A Comprehensive Guide
Conclusion
Now you know “What is Medicaid in California?”. Medicaid is valuable for free or low-cost healthcare to eligible Californians, covering essential services. If you meet the eligibility requirements, you could qualify for Medicaid and start receiving its benefits. From doctor visits and hospital stays to prescription medications and preventive care, Medicaid ensures you receive comprehensive healthcare support.