MEDI-CAL
The Health Care Rights of Children in Foster Care
From the top of your head to the tip of your toes, a lot can go wrong. When you feel out of sorts, listen to your body. It's telling you to go see a doctor.
Fortunately, you can afford to pay attention. You may qualify for full, no cost Medi-Cal healthcare under the Former Foster Care Children Program (FFCC). Coverage can continue until your 21st birthday.
Here's What You Get:
- Regular check-ups
- Immunizations
- Health care when sick
- Medical treatment if injured
- Regular dental check-ups
- Dental care, vision tests, and eyeglasses
- Hospitalization when necessary
- Health exams for a new job
- Mental health services
Who is Eligible:
- If you were in out-of-home care -- foster and probation youth -- on your 18th birthday and your case has been terminated because of age.
- If you are not eligible for the FFCC Program because you left care before your 18th birthday, you may still qualify for Medi-Cal through the regular application process. Contact a Transition Resource Center for help exploring this option.
How to Apply for Service:
- It's easy. You don't have to submit any forms or documentation. Here's why: when you exit care, the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) automatically sends your Medi-Cal eligibility information to the Department of Public Social Services (DPSS), which then assigns you an Eligibility Worker. For more Information, you can call Dorian Madrid/DPSS staff at 626-569-2968.
- Before you exit care, you must check on the status of your medical coverage to make sure it continues uninterrupted.
- You must provide the Medi-Cal worker with a current address
- You must be a California resident to remain eligible
- Once a year, your Medi-Cal Worker will contact you and ask if you still want Medi-Cal coverage.
Internal Procedures and Forms:
For More Information, Contact:
- Medi-Cal benefits for After Care and Kin-Gap Youth, please call Foster Care/Adoptions Assistance Hotline at (800) 697-4444
- Your Transition Coordinator
- Department of Public Social Services at (626) 569-2968
- Health and Nutrition Hotline toll free at (877) 597-4777
- The Youth Development Services at (213) 351-0100
- Any Transition Resource Center
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