The California Department Of Health Care Services (DHCS) stands as a cornerstone of California’s healthcare system, dedicated to ensuring access to quality health care for millions of residents. Serving nearly 15 million Californians, which accounts for one-third of the state’s population, DHCS plays a vital role in the state’s health care safety net. Collaborating closely with federal, state, county, and various partners, the California Department of Health Care Services strives to promote equitable access to comprehensive healthcare services, ultimately fostering a healthier California for everyone.
As the single state agency overseeing Medi-Cal, California’s Medicaid program, the California Department of Health Care Services provides essential health coverage to a diverse population. This includes low-income individuals, children, seniors, and people with disabilities. Medi-Cal’s broad coverage encompasses physical and mental health services, treatment for substance use disorders, dental care, pharmacy benefits, and long-term services and supports, ensuring a holistic approach to healthcare. Furthermore, DHCS acts as the single state authority for the Substance Use and Mental Health Services Administration, reinforcing its commitment to mental health and substance use disorder services across California.
Services Offered by the California Department of Health Care Services
The California Department of Health Care Services offers a wide array of services designed to meet the diverse healthcare needs of Californians. Below are some key services provided:
Accessing Medi-Cal Care
Medi-Cal ensures that members can access necessary medical services through a vast network of healthcare providers. Hundreds of hospitals and thousands of doctors, pharmacists, dentists, and other healthcare professionals participate in the Medi-Cal program. This extensive network is committed to providing medically necessary services to all Medi-Cal members, ensuring timely and appropriate care when you need it.
Launch Service: Access Care Last updated 11/21/2024
Applying for Medi-Cal
If you are seeking affordable health coverage, Medi-Cal offers free or low-cost health insurance to eligible California residents. Eligibility for Medi-Cal is determined by specific requirements, but importantly, coverage is available regardless of immigration status. The majority of individuals who successfully apply for and enroll in Medi-Cal will receive their healthcare services through Medi-Cal health plans, offering structured and managed care options.
Launch Service: Apply for Medi-Cal Last updated 11/21/2024
Behavioral Health Services
Behavioral health is a critical component of overall wellness, encompassing mental health, substance use disorders, and the impact of life stressors. The California Department of Health Care Services recognizes the importance of accessible behavioral health support. Behavioral health care includes the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of these conditions, ensuring that Californians have access to the services they need to support their mental and emotional well-being.
Launch Service: Behavioral Health Last updated 11/21/2024
Finding a Medi-Cal Dentist
Dental health is an integral part of overall health, and Medi-Cal Dental provides free or low-cost dental benefits to enrolled Medi-Cal members. Depending on your income level relative to the Medi-Cal limits for your family size, you may qualify for free dental services or be required to pay a low-cost monthly premium. Medi-Cal Dental aims to make essential dental care accessible to those who might otherwise struggle to afford it.
Launch Service: Find a Dentist Last updated 11/22/2024
Substance Use Disorder Services
The California Department of Health Care Services is dedicated to combating substance use disorders by providing resources and support for those seeking help. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, DHCS offers pathways to find appropriate services and treatment options. Accessing these services is a crucial step towards recovery and well-being.
Launch Service: Find Substance Use Disorder Services Last updated 11/21/2024
Understanding Medi-Cal Benefits
Medi-Cal provides a comprehensive suite of benefits and services that extend beyond basic medical care. As a Medi-Cal member, you have access to a wide range of healthcare services designed to support your health and well-being. These benefits are intended to provide holistic care and address various health-related needs.
Launch Service: Medi-Cal Benefits Last updated 11/21/2024
Youth Behavioral Health Support
Recognizing the unique behavioral health needs of young people, the California Department of Health Care Services supports several initiatives focused on youth mental health and substance use. For younger children and teens, resources like BrightLife Kids (for ages 0-12) and Soluna (for ages 13-25) offer coaching, educational content, and online tools. Dyadic Services are also available for children up to age 5 and their caregivers, providing specialized support within the Medi-Cal framework.
Launch Service: Youth Behavioral Health Last updated 11/27/2024
Frequently Asked Questions about California Department of Health Care Services and Medi-Cal
To further clarify how the California Department of Health Care Services and Medi-Cal can assist you, here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
How can I access care through Medi-Cal?
Finding a primary care physician near you within the Medi-Cal network is often straightforward. The DHCS website provides a tool called Health Care Options to search for Medi-Cal health plans in your area. Health Care Options can also provide personalized assistance in selecting a plan that meets your needs. For direct support, you can contact Health Care Options at 1-800-430-4263 (TTY 1-800-430-7077) to learn more about health plan options in your county.
Does Medi-Cal cover behavioral health services?
Yes, Medi-Cal offers a comprehensive array of behavioral health services, including mental health and substance use disorder treatment. These services encompass counseling, therapy, medication management, and specialized treatment programs. To explore the specific behavioral health services available to you under Medi-Cal, please visit the DHCS website. For information on services available at the local level, contact your county office.
How do I locate licensed mental health or substance use disorder treatment facilities?
The DHCS provides online directories to help you find licensed facilities. Please refer to the Directories for Substance Use Disorder Services webpage for a comprehensive listing of resources.
What crisis services are available through the county?
Every county mental health department in California operates 24/7 hotlines designed to provide immediate assistance to residents experiencing a mental health crisis and to facilitate access to local mental health programs. You can find the contact information for your county’s crisis services at County Mental Health Crisis Numbers. These services are accessible by phone 24/7, and you can also visit a county mental health office during business hours to speak with a crisis worker in person.
What is the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline?
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a nationwide network that offers immediate support to individuals in crisis. If you or someone you know needs urgent crisis assistance, you can call, text, or chat with 988. Furthermore, Medi-Cal covers mobile crisis services, which provide on-site de-escalation and referrals for Medi-Cal members experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis. Learn more at the 988 lifeline website.
Am I eligible for Medi-Cal Dental benefits?
If you are eligible for Medi-Cal, you are automatically eligible for Medi-Cal Dental benefits. Dental coverage is an integral part of the Medi-Cal program, and you do not need to apply separately for dental services. Your overall Medi-Cal eligibility determines the specific dental benefits you can access.
How do I apply for Medi-Cal to receive dental services?
To apply for Medi-Cal and access dental coverage, you can visit the California Department of Health Care Services website at Department of Health Care Services website. Alternative application methods include visiting www.coveredca.com, consulting a list of county offices, or calling 1‑800‑300‑1506.
Are there more FAQs about Medi-Cal Dental?
For additional frequently asked questions specifically about Medi-Cal Dental, please visit the Smile, California website: https://smilecalifornia.org/common-questions/.
What initiatives are in place to address substance use in California?
The California Department of Health Care Services is at the forefront of efforts to reduce alcoholism and drug addiction throughout California. DHCS develops, administers, and supports a range of prevention, treatment, and recovery programs. The department’s approach emphasizes that alcoholism and drug addiction are chronic conditions that are both preventable and treatable.
Where can I find more information about substance use disorder services near me?
To find substance use disorder treatment options in your local area, you can consult your county access line. Alternatively, you can search for providers by zip code using the ChooseMAT.org resource.
Where can I get help for alcohol or substance misuse?
If you are struggling with substance misuse, or are concerned about a loved one, it’s important to know that help is available. Resources like Shatterproof Treatment Atlas can help you locate evidence-based addiction treatment. StartYourRecovery.org offers comprehensive information about substance use issues, treatment options, and support resources. In case of a medical emergency, including a psychiatric emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. For crisis situations, dial 988 or 911.
What types of benefits are available through Medi-Cal?
Medi-Cal benefits are extensive, including traditional services such as vision, dental, mental health, and substance use disorder treatment, prescription medications, and family planning. Furthermore, Medi-Cal offers Community Supports, like housing support and medically tailored meals, to address social determinants of health. For individuals with complex needs, Enhanced Care Management provides comprehensive care coordination. More details are available on the DHCS website.
What is the Statewide Multi-Payer Fee Schedule for School-Linked Behavioral Health Services?
The Statewide Multi-Payer Fee Schedule for School-Linked Behavioral Health Services is designed to facilitate insurance coverage for mental health services provided to children and youth within school settings.
What is Elevate Youth California?
Elevate Youth California is a prevention program funded by Proposition 64, focusing on low-income youth aged 12 to 26 in Tribal, LGBTQIA+, and communities of color. The program delivers peer support, mentoring, substance use prevention education, and civic engagement activities.
What is the California Youth Opioid Response?
The California Youth Opioid Response initiative aims to improve access to care for youth and families affected by opioid and stimulant use. This is achieved through the expansion of Medication Assisted Treatment services and prevention programs.
What is the Song for Charlie: Fentanyl Awareness and Drug Education Program?
The Song for Charlie: Fentanyl Awareness and Drug Education Program is an online resource hub providing California families with information and tools to address fentanyl awareness and drug education. It aims to help parents protect youth and encourage open conversations about mental health and substance use.
By offering this wide range of services and information, the California Department of Health Care Services is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of all Californians. For more detailed information, please visit the official Department website.
