CALIFORNIA RELEASES PLAN TO SUPPORT MEDI-CAL MEMBERS THROUGH FEDERAL CHANGES
Plan outlines steps to reduce disruption, streamline renewals, and keep Californians informed.
SACRAMENTO — The California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) today announced the release of the Implementation Plan for New Federal Eligibility and Enrollment Changes Under H.R. 1, outlining the state’s approach to implementing new federal requirements under H.R. 1. These changes, which start as early as October 2026, are expected to impact millions of Californians statewide.
"California is committed to implementing these federally required changes in a way that protects coverage and supports our members,” said DHCS Director Michelle Baass. “Our goal is to make this transition as smooth as possible by providing clear information, reducing administrative burdens, and working closely with members, counties, health plans, and community partners."
DHCS is working to minimize disruption and maintain continuity of coverage for Medi-Cal members. The plan provides details on upcoming changes, guiding principles for implementation, and resources for members and stakeholders to prepare for transitions. About 2 million Medi-Cal members, primarily within the new adult expansion group, are at risk of losing health coverage due to these federal changes.
Key principles of the plan include: - Automating to protect coverage: Using data to confirm eligibility and reduce paperwork.
- Communicating with clarity: Sharing plain-language, culturally appropriate information in all required languages.
- Simplifying eligibility renewals: Streamlining six-month eligibility renewal steps to help members stay enrolled.
- Providing education and training: Providing counties and Coverage Ambassadors (partners who share information and help members navigate coverage) with training and tools to assist members.
- Providing timely and transparent communication to members: Sharing information on H.R. 1 changes early on and via multiple channels (mail, text, outbound phone calls, etc.) so members can build awareness, anticipate changes to their coverage, and have ample preparation time to meet new requirements.