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.
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)
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.
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.
To protect your access to full-scope Medi-Cal:
1. Apply Before December 31, 2025Watch for renewal packets and respond quickly.
3. Ask for Help if You're UnsureOur 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.
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.