Changes to Medi-Cal in California in 2026–2027

ByDmitrii Tur

In 2026 and 2027, significant changes will take effect in California’s Medi-Cal program, the state’s public health insurance system for people with low income. These changes will primarily affect immigrants without a Green Card, including refugees, asylum seekers, individuals with humanitarian statuses, as well as survivors of violence and human trafficking.

OURS IN THE USA, as the largest Russian-speaking LGBTQI+ charitable organization in the United States, believes it is essential to clearly and proactively explain what is changing, who will be affected, and what steps should be taken now.

Freeze on New Full-Scope Medi-Cal Enrollments Starting January 1, 2026

Beginning January 1, 2026, California will implement what is known as an Enrollment Freeze – a freeze on new enrollments into full-scope Medi-Cal for certain categories of adult immigrants based on their immigration status.

This means that some adult immigrants will no longer be able to apply for full-scope Medi-Cal for the first time. At the same time, individuals who are already enrolled in Medi-Cal before this date will not automatically lose their coverage.

However, we emphasize an important point: any gap in Medi-Cal coverage – for example, due to a missed renewal, a change of address without proper notification, or an administrative error – may result in the inability to restore full-scope Medi-Cal. For many immigrants, maintaining continuous coverage will become a critical factor in accessing healthcare.

Reduction of Dental Coverage Starting July 1, 2026

Starting July 1, 2026, some Medi-Cal recipients are expected to experience a reduction in dental coverage that was previously included as part of full-scope Medi-Cal.

In practice, this may mean that only emergency or basic dental services will remain available. More complex treatments – such as crowns, prosthetics, or long-term dental care – may be limited or fully excluded depending on the recipient’s category and state decisions.

For many refugees and asylum seekers, dental care is not a secondary issue. Individuals who have experienced immigration detention, violence, or prolonged stress often face serious dental health problems, and reduced access to care can significantly impact their overall health and quality of life.

Introduction of Monthly Medi-Cal Premiums Starting July 1, 2027

Another fundamentally new change will take effect on July 1, 2027. Certain categories of full-scope Medi-Cal recipients will be required to pay a mandatory monthly premium in order to maintain their health coverage.

According to available information, this may affect:

  • refugees and asylees who do not have lawful permanent resident (LPR) status;
  • holders of humanitarian parole valid for one year or longer;
  • survivors of domestic violence or human trafficking with a pending humanitarian status.

The amount of the premium will depend on income. However, the introduction of mandatory payments represents an additional financial burden for some of the most vulnerable immigrant populations, for whom Medi-Cal often remains the only source of healthcare.

Why These Changes Are Especially Important for Immigrants and Refugees

OURS IN THE USA notes that these Medi-Cal changes are being implemented in stages. First, access is restricted for new applicants; then the scope of medical services is reduced; and finally, a financial barrier is introduced through monthly premiums.

This approach disproportionately affects individuals who are in the process of legalizing their status, lack stable income, and have increased medical needs. For many of the people we support, losing or reducing Medi-Cal coverage effectively means losing access to medical treatment altogether.

Our Recommendations

If you are in the process of seeking asylum, have humanitarian parole, or are awaiting a decision on a humanitarian status, we strongly recommend that you:

  • avoid any gaps in Medi-Cal coverage;
  • renew your status on time and respond promptly to all county notices;
  • keep all documents confirming your active Medi-Cal enrollment;
  • consult with qualified professionals before changing your address, income, or immigration status.
LGBTQ immigrant couples in California navigating Medi-Cal healthcare changes

Support from OURS IN THE USA

For more than three years, OURS IN THE USA has supported LGBTQI+ immigrants and refugees across the United States, including individuals held in immigration detention and those living in the community. We continue to monitor changes in the healthcare system, explain them to our community, and work in cooperation with attorneys, caseworkers, and medical providers.

If you are unsure how the upcoming Medi-Cal changes may affect your specific situation, you can contact OURS IN THE USA for consultation and informational support.

Similar Posts