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Important Medi-Cal Update for 2026: What You Need to Know

Dec 4, 2025 7:28:46 PM • Updates (see all) admin

 

At St. Louise Resource Services (StLRS), we want to make sure every family in our community understands an important change coming to Medi-Cal next year. These updates may affect adults who do not have a satisfactory immigration status, and taking action early can help protect your access to care.

medi-cal-new-changes-updated

What's Changing on January 1, 2026?

Beginning January 1, 2026, adults 19 years or older who do not have a satisfactory immigration status will no longer be able to receive full-scope Medi-Cal through new applications.

What this means:

  • If you apply before December 31, 2025, you can still be evaluated for full-scope Medi-Cal, which includes comprehensive benefits.

  • If you apply on or after January 1, 2026, you will only be evaluated for restricted-scope Medi-Cal, which covers emergency and pregnancy-related services only.

This is why applying before the end of 2025 is critical.

(Source: DHCS — Medi-Cal Changes for Californians Without Satisfactory Immigration Status)

Who is NOT Affected by This Change?

 

These groups will still be eligible for full-scope Medi-Cal after 2026, regardless of immigration status:

  • Children and youth under 19

  • Pregnant individuals, including postpartum coverage for 12 months

  • Current full-scope Medi-Cal members, as long as they complete their annual renewal on time

If you already have full-scope Medi-Cal before January 1, 2026, you may keep it — but only if you respond to all county requests and complete your renewal every year.

What is Restricted-Scope Medi-Cal?

If you apply in 2026 and are only eligible for restricted-scope Medi-Cal, you will receive:

  • Emergency services

  • Pregnancy-related care

Restricted-scope Medi-Cal does not cover regular doctor visits, prescription medications, specialty care, behavioral health care, or preventive services.

What You Should Do Now

To protect your access to full-scope Medi-Cal:

1. Apply Before December 31, 2025 
If you or someone you know is 19 or older and does not have a satisfactory immigration status, apply as soon as possible.
 
2. If You Already Have Full-Scope Medi-Cal, Renew on Time
Make sure your county has your:
  • Current address
  • Phone number
  • Email

Watch for renewal packets and respond quickly.

3. Ask for Help if You're Unsure
These changes can be confusing. Our team can help you understand what they mean for you or your family.

StLRS Is Here to Support You

Our team can help you with:

  • Medi-Cal applications & renewals

  • Understanding notices and requested documents

  • Questions about the 2026 Medi-Cal changes

  • Support with Medi-Cal, Covered California, Kaiser CHCP & more

Call 844-245-1900 for free, bilingual help.
Appointments are available by phone or in person.

We're Committed to Keeping You Informed

Thank you for trusting St. Louise Resource Services to support your family’s health coverage needs. We will continue sharing updates to make sure our community stays connected to care.

 

 

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