Residents of the state of California who do not have health coverage through their employer or another source have multiple options available for obtaining low-cost health insurance. The state of California offers a Medicaid program and providers within the state offer federally subsidized Healthy Families plans and Medicare Advantage plans.
Medi-Cal
Medi-Cal is California's Medicaid program. It provides health coverage for certain low-income individuals, including the elderly, disabled and pregnant women and children. If you are receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or in-home supportive services, or are enrolled in CalWorks, refugee assistance or a foster care or adoption assistance program, you automatically qualify for Medi-Cal. Apply for Medi-Cal at your local Department of Health Care Services office.
Healthy Families
The Healthy Families Program is a state- and federally- funded health insurance program for children who do not have health insurance coverage and are ineligible for Medi-Cal. Healthy Families covers dental care, vision care, prescription drugs, and inpatient and outpatient medical care.
County of Los Angeles
The County of Los Angeles provides the Ability to Pay (ATP) and Outpatient Reduced-Cost Simplified Application (ORSA) to residents of the county who use county hospitals and clinics. These programs are designed for low-income individuals who meet income guidelines and are unable to pay for medical bills, including bills for inpatient care, outpatient care and prescription drugs, due to lack of insurance coverage.
Medicare Advantage Plans
Insurance providers in the state of California offer Medicare Advantage plans to residents who qualify for or current have Medicare Part A and B coverage. These plans are subsidized by the federal government and must adhere to strict federal guidelines for Medicare Advantage Plans. Medicare Advantage plans provide coverage for inpatient care, outpatient care and in some cases, prescription drug coverage. These plans are intended for elderly and disabled individuals.
Tags: Medicare Advantage, Healthy Families, health insurance, Medicare Advantage plans, state California