The Medicaid Program (Medi-Cal in California) was established under Title XIX of the Social Security Act in 1966. This program provides access to health care services for people whose assets and income are insufficient to pay medical bills and meet basic monthly needs. Individuals already receiving cash assistance through CalWORKs (and SSI/SSP) are automatically eligible for Medi-Cal.
Families who are not recipients of cash aid, but whose resources are within the Medi-Cal limits, may receive benefits. Some have to pay a monthly share of cost before Medi-cal benefits become effective.
Medi-Cal benefit may cover hospital care, nursing home care, laboratory and x-ray, physician, dentist, psychologist, chiropractor therapy, prescriptions, ambulance, medical appliances and equipment, and more. Some items require prior state approval. There are also many programs under the Medi-Cal umbrella that offer special benefits for pregnant women and children.
See Also -> County Medical Services Program (CMSP)