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Medi-Cal Dental Make Preventive Dental Care Easier For Families

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Medi-Cal Dental Make Preventive Dental Care Easier For Families

 National Children’s Dental Health Month highlights free dental services for children and families.

SACRAMENTO — The Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) is coordinating a statewide Smile, California bilingual outreach campaign to help children and families understand the importance of early and regular dental care and to encourage the use of free Medi-Cal Dental preventive services. The campaign includes easy-to-use English and Spanish-language materials that explain what families can expect during dental visits and how to access care under Medi-Cal. It aims to reduce barriers to care by helping children feel prepared and parents feel confident about scheduling preventive dental visits. 

“Dental problems don’t just cause pain—they interrupt learning, impact confidence, and widen achievement gaps,” said Dana Durham, Chief of DHCS’ Medi-Cal Dental Services Division. “The good news is that most of these issues are preventable, and Medi-Cal covers regular dental care for children at no cost to families.”  

Throughout National Children’s Dental Health Month, Smile, California is encouraging parents, schools, and community partners to help children build healthy habits, including brushing twice a day, flossing daily, eating nutritious foods, and visiting the dentist regularly.  

To support families, Smile, California released a new digital storybook, Jasmín Goes to the Dentist, in English and Spanish. It walks children step-by-step through a regular check-up. From the bright light above the chair to the tools hygienists use to clean teeth, the story helps normalize the experience, showing children that dental visits can be comfortable, friendly, and even fun. 

這本小冊子也包括給家長的特別部分,鼓勵在家中公開談論牙齒保健,並提醒家庭 Medi-Cal 免費承保整個家庭的預防和修復服務。 

WHY THIS MATTERS: Dental problems are one of the most common, yet preventable, health issues affecting children in California. When children receive preventive care early and regularly, families can avoid unnecessary dental pain, reduce missed school days, and decrease the need for emergency treatment later in life. The new bilingual campaign supports families in navigating dental care and understanding covered benefits through Medi-Cal Dental. 

Recent data show that more than 350,000 children and teens missed at least one school day because of dental issues, demonstrating the impact untreated dental problems can have on student well-being and their ability to learn, adding up to more than 869,000 lost school days and a cost of roughly $60 million to school districts.   

ABOUT MEDI-CAL DENTAL: All children and teens enrolled in Medi-Cal qualify for two free dental check-ups each year, along with cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants, and other preventive services. Adults age 21 and older can receive one free dental check-up each year, in addition to other covered services. Parents can find a Medi-Cal dentist and learn more at SmileCalifornia.org

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加州發佈計劃支援 Medi-Cal 會員渡過聯邦改變的難關

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加州發佈計劃支援 Medi-Cal 會員渡過聯邦改變的難關

 該計劃概述了減少干擾、簡化續期和讓加州居民瞭解情況的步驟。

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 正努力將 Medi-Cal 會員的中斷情況減至最低,並維持承保的連續性。該計劃提供即將發生的變更的詳細資訊、執行的指導原則,以及供會員和利害關係人準備過渡的資源。約有 200 萬名 Medi-Cal 會員,主要在新擴大的成人群組中,有可能因這些聯邦變更而失去醫療保險。 

該計劃的主要原則包括 

DHCS will host an All-Comer Webinar on February 5 to review the plan and answer questions. Learn more and read the plan

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通訊辦公室
(916) 440-7660
DHCSPress@dhcs.ca.gov

Medi-Cal 護理創新比以往惠及更多加州人

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Medi-Cal 護理創新比以往惠及更多加州人

新數據顯示強化照護管理和社區支援有顯著的成長

SACRAMENTO — The Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) today released new data showing continued growth and impact from Enhanced Care Management (ECM) and Community Supports, key components of California’s Medi-Cal transformation under the California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal (CalAIM) initiative. 

“These services help Medi-Cal members stay healthier and avoid other, costlier care, such as emergency department visits and hospital stays,” said DHCS Director Michelle Baass. “We appreciate the hard work and commitment of Medi-Cal managed care plan providers and partners. Together, we are building a health care delivery system that supports whole-person care for Medi-Cal members.” 

最新的季度報告包括自 2022 年 1 月以來的趨勢,以及 2025 年 4 月至 6 月的新資料,涵蓋州、縣及管理式保健計劃層級的會員服務、服務使用及提供者網路資訊。 

ECM REACHES MORE CALIFORNIANS: ECM helps people with complex health and social needs, including homelessness, serious mental illness, or frequent hospital visits, coordinate the care they need, wherever they are. Since its launch in January 2022, ECM has connected more than 451,000 Medi-Cal members to high-touch, person-centered care coordination through a Lead Care Manager who helps navigate physical, behavioral, and social services.  

2025 年第二季,ECM 的註冊人數增加,尤其是兒童和青少年。超過 47,000 名兒童及青少年接受了 ECM,較去年同期增加 102%。近 3,600 名從監獄過渡的成人和超過 16,000 名無家可歸的兒童和青少年也接受了 ECM,與去年同期相比分別增加了 83% 和 164%。為了滿足這項需求,醫療服務提供者網路大幅擴張,服務這些族群的醫療服務提供者年比增加超過 80%。 

“Every expansion means more Californians have access to services that keep them stable, healthy, and supported,” said State Medicaid Director Tyler Sadwith. “We’re focused on making these programs even more accessible and responsive to the communities we serve.” 

COMMUNITY SUPPORTS GROWTH: Community Supports provide cost-effective, community-based alternatives to traditional medical care, addressing housing, nutrition, and other social drivers of health. Since launching in January 2022, these services have become a cornerstone of whole-person care in Medi-Cal. 

截至 2025 年 6 月,已有超過 52 萬名 Medi-Cal 會員使用社區支援服務,全州共提供超過 130 萬項服務。服務範圍持續擴大,幾乎所有 Medi-Cal 會員現在都可獲得至少 10 項社區支援服務,而且大多數(94%)會員都可選擇全套服務。醫療量身訂做的膳食和住房相關服務仍然是使用率最高的服務之一。 

WHY THIS IS IMPORTANT: The growth of ECM and Community Supports reflects California’s commitment. These services are critical tools in addressing challenges, such as homelessness, behavioral health access, and support for families and youth with complex needs. 

作為改善健康成果承諾的一部份,加州擴大了「涉案司法人員重返社區行動」(Justice-Involved Reentry Initiative),要求管理式照護計劃在釋放前 90 天內提供照護協調以及醫療和行為健康服務,以確保重返社區期間照護的連續性。這項計畫透過釋放前服務為會員提供支援,並透過釋放後 ECM 連繫持續照護,於 2024 年 10 月在三個縣啟用,並於 2025 年 2 月擴展至州立監獄,目前已在 13 個縣投入運作。全州所有縣都必須在 2026 年 10 月前提供這些服務。 

INVESTING IN CAPACITY: To support the expansion of ECM and Community Supports, DHCS has awarded more than $1.66 billion through its Providing Access and Transforming Health (PATH) initiatives, including Capacity and Infrastructure Transition, Expansion, and Development (CITED), Collaborative Planning and Implementation, Justice-Involved Capacity Building program, and Technical Assistance Marketplace. These funds help community-based organizations, clinics, and local agencies grow their capacity by hiring staff, upgrading systems, and improving care coordination. The fourth and final round of PATH CITED grant awardees was announced in November 2025. 

WHAT’S NEXT: DHCS will continue listening to Medi-Cal members who use ECM and Community Supports. Feedback gathered through surveys, focus groups, and other outreach will guide improvements to make these services easier to access, more effective, and more responsive to California’s diverse communities. 

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通訊辦公室
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紐森州長的安寧療護提供者新禁令生效四年來,加州已吊銷超過 280 個執照

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紐森州長的安寧療護提供者新禁令生效四年來,加州已吊銷超過 280 個執照

檢視新聞稿

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DHCSPress@dhcs.ca.gov

Statewide Path Cited Investments Deliver Results Across California

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Statewide Path Cited Investments Deliver Results Across California

139 個社區組織完成專案,強化加州醫療保險照護

SACRAMENTO — The California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) today announced a major milestone in Medi-Cal transformation: 139 organizations have successfully completed Round 1 projects under the Providing Access and Transforming Health (PATH)  Capacity and Infrastructure, Transition, Expansion, and Development (CITED) grants. These organizations completed capacity-building projects designed to strengthen their ability to deliver Enhanced Care Management (ECM) and Community Supports, cornerstones of DHCS’ commitment to build a more equitable, person-centered Medi-Cal delivery system under California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal (CalAIM).  

“PATH CITED Round 1 shows what’s possible when we invest in community-driven solutions,” said DHCS Director Michelle Baass. “These projects are improving access and coordination while laying the foundation for a Medi-Cal system that is more responsive, inclusive, and equitable for all Californians.” 

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR CALIFORNIANS: Across the state, these projects expanded ECM and Community Supports by training hundreds of new staff, including care managers and outreach workers, investing in electronic health records to improve care coordination, and developing peer-led outreach models while hosting hundreds of community events to build trust with populations that have historically faced barriers to accessing care. Together, these efforts are creating a stronger, more equitable Medi-Cal delivery system that meets members where they are and delivers whole-person, community-based care. 

ECM 和社區支援正在改變 Medi-Cal,讓有複雜健康需求的人遠離急診室、療養院和無家可歸者。這些服務提供親自動手的照護協調和實際支援,例如住家導覽、醫療量身訂做的膳食和居家改裝,協助會員管理慢性疾病並在家裡安全地康復。透過滿足醫療和社會需求,ECM 和社區支援可在危機發生之前加以預防,從而改善健康狀況並減少昂貴的醫院就診次數。 

REAL IMPACT: A new video (above) showcases the voices of Round 1 awardees discussing the impact of these funds on their ability to serve Medi-Cal members. From expanding behavioral health services to launching innovative outreach programs, these stories highlight how local partners are becoming Medi-Cal providers and driving change that will result in lasting health benefits for Californians. Some successful projects include: 

BY THE NUMBERS:

BACKGROUND: Launched in early 2023, PATH CITED Round 1 awarded $203 million in grant funding to a diverse group of organizations, community-based organizations, county agencies, Tribal entities, hospitals, and Medi-Cal managed care plan partners to expedite adoption of new services, contract directly with plans, and implement billing systems for innovative care models. These investments help new and existing providers integrate into the Medi-Cal system and sustain services beyond PATH funding. 

LOOKING AHEAD: DHCS extends its deepest gratitude to all Round 1 awardees for their dedication, innovation, and commitment to improving the lives of Medi-Cal members. These organizations have built trust, expanded access, and laid the groundwork for lasting change in communities across California. To explore more impact stories, visit the PATH CITED website or email questions to cited@ca-path.com

第二輪專案預計將於今年年初定案,延續此一趨勢。 迄今為止,DHCS 已透過其 PATH 計畫,包括 CITED、協作規劃與執行司法介入能力建構計畫技術協助市場等,向 2,200 多個組織提供了超過 16.6 億美元的獎金。 

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加州健康與人類服務部門領導人關於疫苗接種與提供的聯合聲明

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加州健康與人類服務部門領導人關於疫苗接種與提供的聯合聲明

檢視聲明

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(916) 440-7660
DHCSPress@dhcs.ca.gov

加州加強 Medi-Cal 品質評等的問責性

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加州加強 Medi-Cal 品質評等的問責性

DHCS’ Quality Improvement Strategies Are Driving Measurable Progress Across Medi-Cal

SACRAMENTO — The California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) today released the 2024 quality ratings for Medi-Cal managed care plans (MCP) and county behavioral health plans (BHP), highlighting measurable improvements in care quality, expanded oversight, and a deepening commitment to health equity across the state’s Medi-Cal delivery system.

This is the fourth year of MCP ratings and the third for BHPs. The ratings are based on performance against the Managed Care Accountability Set and Behavioral Health Accountability Set measures for services delivered from January to December 2024. These measures evaluate how well plans deliver high-quality, equitable care across key domains, such as preventive services, behavioral health, maternal health, and chronic disease management. They also inform DHCS’ oversight of managed care and county behavioral health systems, supporting enforcement actions, such as monetary sanctions and Corrective Action Plans (CAP), when performance standards are not met. Among the key findings:

BHPs are being held accountable through CAPs, with 10 of 56 Mental Health Plans and 29 of 38 Drug Medi-Cal Organized Delivery System plans receiving CAPs based on performance calculated using Medi-Cal Connect, DHCS’ statewide data analytics platform.

“These results reflect our shared commitment to advancing quality and equity across the Medi-Cal delivery system,” said DHCS Director Michelle Baass. “We are seeing real progress in areas like children’s preventive care, dental services, and behavioral health performance. We know there’s more work to do, and we’re holding ourselves and our partners accountable every step of the way.”

DHCS is transitioning to performance-based oversight with a strong emphasis on equity and data-driven progress. For example, in 2025, the Behavioral Health Community-Based Organized Networks of Equitable Care and Treatment (BH-CONNECTAccess, Reform and Outcomes Incentive Program began offering payments to BHPs that demonstrate progress on key behavioral health measures.

“This isn’t just about numbers; it’s about making real, positive changes in the way care is delivered,” said Dr. Palav Babaria, Chief Quality and Medical Officer and Deputy Director of Quality and Population Health Management. “We’re doing it in partnership with our MCP and BHP partners, and I’m incredibly proud of the progress we’ve made so far. Every step we take is about building a Medi-Cal health care delivery system that works for all members.”

Dr. Babaria added, “By leveraging data, aligning incentives, and listening to the voices of Medi-Cal members, we’re creating a system that not only measures performance, but also supports continuous learning and improvement. Our goal is to ensure that every Californian, regardless of geography or background, has access to high-quality, coordinated care.”

Updated fact sheets, enforcement reports, and sanction letters are available on the Medi-Cal Managed Care Monitoring page.

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Elevate Youth California: New Grants Strengthen Community-Based Prevention Across the State

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Elevate Youth California: New Grants Strengthen Community-Based Prevention Across the State

加州資助 57 個組織以支援青年領導力及減少藥物使用

SACRAMENTO — The Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) today awarded nearly $47 million in grants to 57 community-based and Tribal organizations throughout California to help prevent substance use among youth. These grants support programs that focus on mentoring, peer support, and civic engagement for young people in communities that have historically faced barriers to accessing these services. 

“This funding empowers youth to lead change in their communities,” said DHCS Director Michelle Baass. “By supporting culturally responsive, peer-led programs, we’re investing in the resilience and long-term wellness of California’s young people.”  

Each organization will receive up to $1 million in total over a three-year period, from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2028, to implement the Elevate Youth California (EYC) program. EYC is designed to help youth ages 12 to 26 build leadership skills, connect with mentors, and access culturally responsive support services.  

WHY THIS MATTERS:This funding is part of a larger effort by DHCS to strengthen California’s substance use disorder prevention programs. EYC helps youth-serving organizations use evidence-based and community-driven approaches to support young people. Programs funded through EYC are healing-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally and linguistically responsive. EYC prioritizes substance use prevention and public health strategies that build resilience. 

This investment also supports Governor Gavin Newsom’s Path & Purpose executive order, which calls on state agencies to support young men and boys in service and leadership and provide meaningful and caring adult relationships for young people living in the highest need communities. All awarded organizations welcome young men and boys. While EYC requires that funded initiatives focus on underserved communities, all genders may participate. DHCS’ 2024 Annual Report shows that 37 percent of the population served by EYC programs are boys. 

WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: “Elevate Youth California funding has been more than just support, but transformative in our practices as a program,” said Ilien Tolteca, Youth Coordinator for the Mixteco Indigena Community Organizing Project. “This funding has allowed us to create and enhance our satellite sites across our city, serving and fostering community with 60 to 100 Indigenous youth from the Mixteco, Zapotec, and many other Diasporic communities throughout the Central Coast. It has strengthened autonomous youth leadership, cultural knowledge, and accessibility to higher education resources/tools for our youth.” 

“The EYC grant has allowed us to provide vital prevention services to foster youth, youth on probation, and others in our community,” said Anthony Hughey, Executive Director of The Young People’s Foundation, Inc. “We’ve built long-term relationships with youth from underserved Black and brown communities and developed peer leaders who are driving change.” 

ABOUT EYC: Since EYC launched in 2019, DHCS has awarded more than $370 million through 517 grants. EYC is funded by Proposition 64, passed by voters in November 2016, which legalized adult non-medical marijuana use in California and created a tax system to regulate cannabis sales. A portion of that tax revenue supports EYC through DHCS, funding youth-focused prevention and leadership programs statewide. These grants support youth development, civic engagement, and peer-led support in 56 of California’s 58 counties.    

PATH AND PURPOSE: In July, Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order to address a growing issue — the alarming rise in suicides and disconnection among California’s young men and boys. The order directs a coordinated statewide response to improve mental health outcomes, reduce stigma, and expand access to meaningful education, work, and mentorship opportunities. The full executive order can be found here. The executive order helps address this crisis, directing state agencies to create a new focus on this issue and developing new pathways to help reconnect men and boys with the support, assistance, and help they need. 

To see the full list of EYC grant recipients and learn more about EYC, visit www.elevateyouthca.org.

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California Awards $145 Million To Expand Provider Capacity to Deliver CalAIM Services

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California Awards $145 Million To Expand Provider Capacity to Deliver CalAIM Services

基金將協助醫療服務提供者為會員實施全面、以人為中心的照護協調

SACRAMENTO — The California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) today announced $145.5 million in awards to 153 organizations across all 58 counties to strengthen services for Medi-Cal members. Enhanced Care Management (ECM) and Community Supports are core components of California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal (CalAIM), DHCS’ broad transformation of Medi-Cal to create a more coordinated, person-centered, and equitable health system that works for all Californians. They offer tailored, community-based services, including in-person care coordination, housing support, and other vital resources for Medi-Cal members with complex needs. The awards are part of the Providing Access and Transforming Health (PATH) Capacity and Infrastructure, Transition, Expansion, and Development (CITED) initiative, which helps local providers grow their ability to deliver whole-person, community-based care.

為了支持 ECM 和社區支援的擴展,DHCS 已透過其 PATH 倡議(包括 CITED、協作規劃與實施以及技術援助市場)向 2,200 多個組織提供了超過 16.6 億美元的獎金。這些努力已讓超過 373,000 位 ECM 投保人受惠,提供了超過 100 萬項社區支援服務,並大幅擴大了兒童和青少年的使用機會,單是 2025 年初就同比增加了 120%。

“PATH CITED represents a vital investment in the future of Medi-Cal and the health of California,” said DHCS Director Michelle Baass. “By empowering local providers, many of whom serve historically under-resourced communities, we are strengthening the foundation of a more equitable, person-centered delivery system. Together, we’re creating lasting change that connects Medi-Cal members to the care and support they need to live healthier, more fulfilling lives. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made and the partnerships that made it possible.”

Recent data show that investments like these are resulting in long-term savings for California’s Medi-Cal program. Community Supports have been proven cost-effective, reducing avoidable emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and long-term care use. By investing now, DHCS is helping ensure a more sustainable, efficient, and equitable health care system for the future.

請觀賞以下短片,直接聆聽過往獲獎者的心聲,了解 PATH CITED 資金如何協助他們擴展服務、聘請員工,以及與社區建立更緊密的聯繫。

WHY THIS IS IMPORTANT: ECM and Community Supports offer tailored, community-based services, including in-person care coordination, housing support, and other vital resources for Medi-Cal members with complex needs. PATH CITED is helping ECM and Community Supports providers transition, expand, and develop their capacity to provide local, coordinated care for member communities. Awardees will use funds to:

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING: “ECM and Community Supports are transforming how we care for Medi-Cal members with diverse and often intensive needs,” said Susan Philip, Deputy Director of DHCS’ Health Care Delivery Systems. “Just like in prior PATH CITED rounds, we are investing in the infrastructure and workforce that make whole-person care possible, ensuring that providers have the tools they need to deliver timely, compassionate, and coordinated care.”

“Thanks to PATH CITED support, Sanctuary Centers of Santa Barbara has turned an idea into a thriving clinic that continues to expand its reach and impact,” said Sanctuary Centers of Santa Barbara Interim CEO Stephanie R. Drake, PhD. “The Integrated Health Clinic is a model for collaborative, patient-centered care, bridging critical gaps in services and ensuring that Medi-Cal members receive the timely, high-quality, and compassionate care they deserve.”

“We did not have the staffing to follow up with people once they were housed, which led to more instability,” said Ronni Duncan, Care Management Manager at Adventist Health, a CITED awardee from previous rounds. “PATH CITED funds have allowed us to expand staffing, fill service gaps, and let case managers focus on their specific roles. Most of all, these programs have helped build community and provide hope and healing to people who may not have had access to the healing support we offer.”

“Thanks to PATH CITED funding, we are building a growing team of skilled case managers to meet our patients where they are – in homes, coffee shops, and throughout their communities to build trust and transform care,” said Jeniffer Zamora, Community Health Program Manager at Peach Tree Health, a CITED awardee from previous rounds.

“Supported by PATH CITED funding, Rady Children’s Hospital’s ECM program has expanded from San Diego County to also serve Riverside County,” said Russell Gagui, ECM Manager at Rady Children’s Hospital, a CITED Round 2 awardee. “As we grow, we remain committed to the principles that make pediatric ECM work: hiring from within the communities we serve, designing systems that support families’ real-world needs, and centering every effort around improving the lives of children with complex medical and social needs.” 

“Through the CITED grants, we have been able to expand access to recuperative care and strengthen care coordination by hiring additional staff as well as updating our internal data systems, which has allowed us more time to focus on the acute needs of our clients,” said Tracy Wilson, Co-Founder and CEO of Rooted Life, a CITED Round 3 awardee. “CITED grants have been pivotal in allowing us to create robust program where we can focus on the stability and recovery of our clients.”

HOW WE GOT HERE: PATH is a five-year, $1.85 billion initiative launched in 2022, providing funds for community-based organizations, county agencies, hospitals, Tribes, and other community providers to support improved health care management and delivery through the Medi-Cal system. Recipients of PATH CITED awards are committed to serving historically under-resourced and underserved populations.

WHAT’S NEXT: Round 4 is the final PATH CITED funding round. DHCS will continue to listen to Medi-Cal members and providers to improve service delivery, making care more accessible, effective, and responsive to California’s diverse communities. This also includes utilizing the other PATH workstreams to listen intentionally and provide technical assistance, such as through the Technical Assistance Marketplace and the regional Collaborative Planning Implementation convenings. For more information about the PATH CITED initiative, visit the PATH website.

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創新撥款模式協助學校持續提供心理健康服務

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創新撥款模式協助學校持續提供心理健康服務

州政府補償計畫利用新資源在早期取得的正面成果上更進一步

SACRAMENTO — California schools have long worked to meet student mental health needs, and the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) is supporting these efforts through a new sustainable funding program that is already showing promising results.  

Through the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI) Fee Schedule program, local educational agencies (LEA), which includes California public K-12 school districts, charter schools, and county offices of education, and public institutions of higher education (IHE), including public community colleges and universities, can sign up to participate in a reimbursement pathway for mental health and substance use screenings, treatment, and case management. This creates a sustainable funding source for school-based care. This innovative multi-payer program breaks down barriers and puts students first, creating a more seamless experience for youth seeking help with mental health. More than 500 LEAs and IHEs have already signed up and are actively onboarding. 

儘管仍處於實施初期,這項全國首創的努力已展現出積極成果:學校及其合作夥伴已獲得超過 180 萬美元的新資金,用於為 5,000 多名學生提供服務。截至 10 月 15 日,55 個 LEA 和 IHE 已透過計劃提交超過 26,000 份索賠,代表 32 個 Medi-Cal 管理性護理計劃和其他保險公司,包括商業計劃。這些成果反映了自參與者首次有資格取得服務帳單後,在短短一年多的時間內所取得的重大進展。 

“Schools are often the first place students turn to for support,” said DHCS Director Michelle Baass. “Through the CYBHI Fee Schedule program, we’re helping schools meet that need by easing financial pressures and building a sustainable foundation for student mental health services, so every student has access to care when and where they need it.” 

“We were lucky enough to be the first to successfully submit a service for billing, and we actually got our first check. It was only $77, but it was a big milestone,” said Nevada Joint Union High School District Director of Pupil Services Timothy Reid. As of November 3, the district had been reimbursed more than $30,000. Since the first claim was submitted in December 2024, the average reimbursement for an LEA/IHE is nearly $50,000, and multiple LEAs are nearing being reimbursed $1 million through the program. 

NEW RESOURCES AND AWARENESS CAMPAIGN: To support program implementation, DHCS launched new public-facing and provider-facing information and resources to help schools and families navigate the program:

ABOUT THE CYBHI FEE SCHEDULE PROGRAM: The program requires Medi-Cal managed care plans, Medi-Cal fee-for-service providers, commercial health insurance plans, and disability insurers to reimburse school-linked providers for behavioral health services provided to students under age 26, with no out-of-pocket costs for families. As a result, schools now have a sustainable funding source through which to hire, train, and retain staff, increasing access to behavioral health services.

WHY THIS IS IMPORTANT: Youth mental needs have risen significantly in the last decade. California falls short of the recommended ratio of one school psychologist per 500 students, largely due to cost barriers. By creating a sustainable funding mechanism for providing these services, the CYBHI Fee Schedule program addresses this gap by funding school-based services, prioritizing early intervention, and expanding opportunities for the behavioral health workforce to meet growing demand. Research has shown an association between students who access services through a school-based health center and positive school attendance, particularly for students with a mental health diagnosis, suggesting that increased mental health support through school may improve school attendance. 

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING: “We’ve heard from California students across the state about the need to increase behavioral health support where they spend time – at schools. The CYBHI Fee Schedule program is answering the call,” said CYBHI Director Dr. Sohil Sud. “Through partnerships and deeper connections between schools and health plans, along with sustainable funding, schools can meet the behavioral health needs of students who need it most.”

“Together, we have made significant strides in our efforts to transform school-based behavioral health care in California. Our progress to date is a testament to the commitment and the collaborative efforts of our school-district, managed care plan and community partners,” said Autumn Boylan, Deputy Director of DHCS’ Office of Strategic Partnerships. “With the foundation we’ve built, I am confident we will continue to succeed in making a lasting impact on the lives of students across the state.”

“Through the CYBHI Fee Schedule, our school district can continue to provide comprehensive, school-based behavioral health services, including assessments, counseling, prevention, and wellness programs, all at no cost to students and families. These funds will sustain and strengthen the vital program we have built to nurture the mental and emotional well-being of our students, while extending care to their families and our broader community,” said Jesus Chavarria, Anaheim Elementary School District Superintendent.

“CYBHI’s involvement allows us to expand the services and support we can provide,” said Matthew Zavala, Mental Health Therapist at Silver Springs High School in Grass Valley. “When I started working at this school, mental health programming was very grassroots. Now, it’s more stable and secure. It really feels like mental health is part of the school system. On a smaller scale, it’s just nice to see students find a place where they feel welcome and have a positive school experience. Seeing both of those things happen simultaneously is a very rewarding part of this job.”

BIGGER PICTURE: The CYBHI Fee Schedule is part of the state’s broader effort to transform youth mental health care into a coordinated, equitable, and prevention-focused system. The CYBHI Fee Schedule program is the CYBHI’s flagship, a more than $4 billion investment to transform behavioral health services for children, youth, and families, and it is central to the Governor’s Master Plan for Kids’ Mental Health. Learn more on the CYBHI Fee Schedule webpage

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(916) 440-7660
DHCSPress@dhcs.ca.gov