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Medi-Cal for Children and Healthy Families

Medi-Cal for Children and Healthy Families provide health, dental and vision care services for children in families that meet specific eligibility guidelines.

The State of California uses the Federal Income Guidelines (FIG) to set the income guidelines for Healthy Families and Medi-Cal. The FIG changes every year on April 1.

Eligibility is also based on family size, children’s ages, citizenship, and immigration status. Other factors are also considered such as family composition. For instance, a stepparent’s income is not counted as income for stepchildren.

Don’t despair. You do not need to figure this out on your own. Although confusing, the two programs fit together so that one single application may be used to apply for all your children.

Who is eligible?

Medi-Cal and the Healthy Families Program have complex eligibility rules, such as who is considered a family member, whose income is counted and what deductions will count.

If your children are uninsured, it is best to talk to someone who can help you apply for your children.

See How do I apply for more details.


What services are covered?

For children, both Medi-Cal and Healthy Families cover medically necessary services including:


  • Preventive medical services
  • Well-child exams
  • Immunizations
  • Inpatient and outpatient services
  • Hospitalization
  • Laboratory and X-ray services
  • Prescription drugs
  • Maternity care
  • Dental benefits
  • Vision benefits
  • Mental health services

  • How much does it cost?

    Medi-Cal for Children

    • No cost unless your child is enrolled in Share of Cost (SoC) Medi-Cal.

    • If your child has SoC Medi-Cal, check to see if your child is eligible for Healthy Families.

    • Medi-Cal can also help pay for health care services your child received up to three months before you apply; this is called “Retroactive Medi-Cal.”
    Healthy Families
    • Low monthly premium ranging from $4 to $15 per child with a $45 monthly maximum.

    • Premium cost depends on family size, income and health plan.

    • $5 co-pay for services and prescriptions.

    • No co-pay for preventive care.

    • The maximum yearly co-pay per family is $250.

    • Save on premium costs when you choose different payment options.

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