DHCS is dedicated to safeguarding the health and well-being of Medi-Cal members and communities suffering from the devastating effects of the Southern California wildfires. Our purpose extends beyond routine health care services, focusing on proactive planning, rapid response, and continuous support in the face of challenges like these wildfires.
Through coordinated efforts with state, local, federal, and Tribal partners, DHCS ensures that vital health care services remain accessible and timely for affected individuals. We leverage the expertise of our teams and the flexibility of emergency regulations to address the unique needs of Southern California communities, from facilitating access to medical care and behavioral health services to ensuring the availability of medications and durable medical equipment.
Ensuring Access to Care
In response to the Southern California wildfires and Governor Gavin Newsom's proclaimed State of Emergency and Executive Order issued on January 7, 2025, DHCS swiftly implemented key administrative flexibilities to protect Medi-Cal members. These efforts include simplified Medi-Cal enrollment and renewal processes, waived requirements to access prescription medications and medical devices, and other flexibilities to ensure all Medi-Cal members have access to care during this emergency.
On January 8, 2025, in response to the catastrophic wildfires in Southern California, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. declared that a major disaster exists in the State of California in the areas affected by wildfires. On January 10, 2025, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra declared a public health emergency for California retroactive to January 7, 2025, granting DHCS and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) additional flexibility to address the health needs of people impacted.
DHCS successfully secured several Section 1135 waivers from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to provide critical regulatory flexibilities. Additional requested flexibilities are currently under CMS review.
These coordinated efforts between state and federal authorities underscore a unified commitment to safeguarding public health during emergencies, ensuring that affected individuals receive necessary support and services without delay.
