Program Updates

60 Years of Medi-Cal: The Celebration Continues

This year marks six decades since California launched Medi-Cal, our state’s Medicaid program dedicated to ensuring that Californians can access the care they need and deserve. When Medi-Cal began in 1966, it served about one million people; today, it supports more than 14 million. Over the years, Medi-Cal has grown into a comprehensive health care delivery system providing physical and behavioral health care, dental and vision services, long-term services and supports, and more. As we honor this milestone year, we’re shining a spotlight on the breadth of benefits available to members and uplifting real stories from across the state.

Follow along on DHCS social media channels all year long as we highlight the people, partners, and experiences shaping Medi-Cal’s next chapter. We invite everyone to share their own #MediCal60 stories so we can help amplify them.

Join Our Team

DHCS is seeking a talented and motivated individual to serve as:

• Deputy Chief Counsel, Office of Legal Services (OLS). The Deputy Chief Counsel plans, organizes, and directs the work of OLS in support of OLS operations and overall administration of DHCS programs. The Deputy Chief Counsel provides advice to the Director and Executive staff in matters involving legal policy litigation, federal policy, financial operations, and legislation. Applications must be submitted by May 12.

DHCS is also hiring for its Accounting, Health Care Financing, and other teams. For more information, please visit the CalCareers website.

Upcoming Stakeholder Meetings and Webinars

DHCS posts upcoming public meetings on its Calendar of Events. DHCS provides free assistive services, including language interpretation, real-time captioning, and meeting materials in alternate formatting. To request services, please email the Office of Civil Rights at civilrights@dhcs.ca.gov at least ten working days before the meeting.

Stakeholder Advisory Committee (SAC)/Behavioral Health (BH)-SAC Meeting 

On May 20, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. PDT, DHCS will host the hybrid SAC/BH-SAC meeting (advance registration required for online and in-person participation) at 1501 Capitol Avenue (First Floor Conference Room 71.1316), Sacramento. SAC provides DHCS with valuable input and feedback on efforts to provide equitable access to quality health care. BH-SAC provides DHCS with input on behavioral health initiatives and was created as part of the ongoing effort to integrate behavioral health with the greater health care system. This meeting will include updates on DHCS’ Comprehensive Quality and Health Equity Strategy, Behavioral Health Transformation, the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative’s Fee Schedule program and BrightLife Kids and Soluna, and BH-CONNECT (Behavioral Health Community-Based Organized Networks of Equitable Care and Treatment) policy and implementation. The agenda and other meeting materials will be posted as the meeting date approaches. For more information, please email SACinquiries@dhcs.ca.gov or BehavioralHealthSAC@dhcs.ca.gov.

California Opioid Settlements Annual Expenditures Report (SFY 2023-24) Meeting

On May 20, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. PDT, DHCS will host a public meeting (advance registration required) to discuss the California Opioid Settlements Annual Expenditures Report for State Fiscal Year 2023‑24. The report provides an overview of opioid settlement and bankruptcy payments and expenditures at the state, city, and county levels. The meeting will review allowable expenditures, explain how funds were appropriated to state projects, and summarize local spending by cities and counties. DHCS encourages participating cities and counties to participate in this meeting to learn more about California’s efforts and the impactful use of settlement funds statewide.

Coverage Ambassador Webinar Series

On May 27, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. PDT, DHCS will host a Coverage Ambassador webinar (advance registration required) to provide an overview of the Birthing Care Pathway. Spanish translation and live captions will be available. Coverage Ambassadors are trusted messengers who help raise awareness about Medi-Cal benefits, enrollment opportunities, and new initiatives aimed at building a healthier California for all. Visit the Coverage Ambassador website for more information, including how to subscribe to receive regular updates, newsletters, and webinar reminders.

Protect Access to Health Care Act (PAHCA) Stakeholder Advisory Committee (SAC) 

On May 28, from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. PDT, DHCS will host the PAHCA-SAC meeting (advance registration required for online participation) at 1700 K Street (First Floor Conference Room 17.1014), Sacramento. The committee is responsible for advising DHCS on developing and implementing components of the Protect Access to Health Care Act of 2024 (Proposition 35). Please see the DHCS website for more information, and email your questions to DHCSPAHCA@dhcs.ca.gov.

In Case You Missed It

Substance Use Disorder Integrated Care Conference: Registration Now Open

On May 1, DHCS opened registration for the 20th annual Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Integrated Care Conference, which will take place on August 25-27, 2026, at the Hyatt Regency Long Beach and Convention Center. This three-day conference is designed for behavioral health researchers, administrators, policy staff, advocates, and professionals in SUD prevention, treatment, and recovery services. Early bird registration is available through July 31. For questions about the SUD Conference, please email DHCSPrevention@dhcs.ca.gov.