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COVID-19 Information for Beneficiaries & Members

Back to the DHCS COVID-19 Response

How to Apply for Medi-Cal

Medi-Cal offers free or low-cost health coverage for low-income California residents. Most people with Medi-Cal pay no premium or co-payments. Medi-Cal and Covered 
California uses the same streamlined application. Learn More.

COVID-19 Care for the Uninsured and Medi-Cal Beneficiaries

 The State of California has taken steps to ensure that people who have no insurance can qualify for Medi-Cal coverage for COVID-19 testing and treatment at no cost. People who have private insurance that does not cover COVID-19 testing and treatment also qualify. Medi-Cal beneficiaries also are eligible for no-cost COVID-19 testing and treatment, even if they usually are responsible for a share of cost payment. 

 If you are uninsured or have Medi-Cal but no regular doctor, medical advice about COVID-19 is available through the Medi-Nurse advice line at 1-877-409-9052.

Beneficiaries: Important Information About Medi-Cal and COVID-19

You can still use Medi-Cal health care service, even with rules in place to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Please see the Beneficiary Outreach Letter webpage for more information.

Resources for Emotional Support and Well-Being

The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak is changing life for all of us. You may feel anxious, stressed, worried, sad, bored, depressed, lonely or frustrated in these circumstances.
You’re not alone. Learn about strategies for managing stress.
  • The California Peer-Run Warm Line: (855) 845-7415 and the SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline: (900) 885-5990 are available 24/7 for anyone feeling stress due to the emergency.

DHCS COVID-19 Response

The resources below detail steps that DHCS is taking to ensure Medi-Cal beneficiaries have access to medically necessary services during the COVID-19 emergency. 



Last modified date: 4/21/2022 9:00 AM