Changes are happening, GVHC is here to help
As a trusted healthcare provider, we want to reassure our patients that they can continue to receive care at our clinics, regardless of insurance or ability to pay. Our team is here to help you stay informed and provide you with the resources you need to access preventative healthcare.
What’s Changing?
Starting January 2026, adults 19 and older with Unsatisfactory Immigration Status (UIS) will no longer be able to sign up for Medi-Cal. UIS adults who are eligible for Medi-Cal will keep their medical coverage and need to make sure they renew before their coverage lapses. Other Medi-Cal covered services, like dental benefits will no longer be available beginning in July, 2026. See the table below for more information and dates.
Key Eligibility Changes
Please review the updates below to understand how your eligibility or benefits could change.
Adults age 19 and older who have an Unsatisfactory Immigration Status (UIS) will not be able to newly enroll in full-scope Medi-Cal starting in 2026. If you currently have full-scope Medi-Cal, you can continue receiving care as long as you remain eligible.
Effective Date: January 1, 2026
Medi-Cal will look at your assets (things you own) to decide if you can get or keep coverage. This applies if you:
- Are 65 or older
- Have a disability (physical, mental, or developmental)
- Live in a nursing home
- Are in a family that makes too much money to qualify under federal tax rules
This means you’ll need to share information about what you own when you apply for or renew your Medi-Cal. For more information, view the Department of Healthcare Services’ Asset Limit Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) webpage.
Effective Date: January 1, 2026
Dental benefits will no longer be included for adults age 19 and older who have an Unsatisfactory Immigration Status (UIS). Other Medi-Cal health services will still be available if you remain eligible.
Effective Date: July 1, 2026
Adults ages 19–64 will need to renew their Medi-Cal twice a year instead of once. You will need to confirm your eligibility every six months to prevent gaps in coverage.
These new renewal rules do not apply to:
- Children under 19
- Pregnant individuals
- People receiving emergency-only Medi-Cal
- Adults with a satisfactory immigration status
Effective Date: January 1, 2027
Adults ages 19–64 who qualify for Medi-Cal and do not have dependents may be required to meet new work or community participation requirements to maintain coverage. Examples may include employment or volunteering.
Effective Date: January 1, 2027
Adults age 19–59 with an Unsatisfactory Immigration Status (UIS) will be required to pay a $30 monthly premium to maintain Medi-Cal coverage.
Effective Date: July 1, 2027
Have Questions about Medi-Cal Program Changes?
Please contact your county directly:
- Merced County
- Human Services Agency: (855) 421-6770
- San Joaquin County
- Human Services Agency: (209) 468-1000
- Stanislaus County
- Community Services Agency: (209) 558-2500
Enrollment Assistance
Medicare enrollment assistance:
For Medi-Cal enrollment support, use the following community resources in your county:
- 211 – United Way: Dial 211
- Merced County Behavioral Health & Recovery Services (BHRS) – Access & Engagement: (209) 381-6800
- Merced County Community Action Agency (MCCAA): (209) 381-5260
- Merced County Health Services Agency: (209) 385-3000
- Merced County Public Health Department: (855) 421-6770
- Merced County Rescue Mission: (209) 255-3716
- Merced Lao Family: (209) 384-7384
- New Direction: (209) 205-3123
- Sierra Vista Child & Family Services: (209) 205-1058
- United Way of Merced County: (209) 384-1205
- 211 – United Way: Dial 211
- Catholic Charities – Health Care Access Program: (209) 444-5940
- Community Medical Centers, Inc: (209) 373-2824
- Community Partnership for Families (CPFSJ): Dorothy L. Jones/CUFF Family Resource Center: (209) 444-5555
- Community Partnership for Families (CPFSJ) Lodi Family Resource Center: (209) 269-8262
- Community Partnership for Families (CPFSJ): Tracy Family Resource Center: (209) 229-4922
- Disability Resources Agency for Independent Living (DRAIL): (209) 521-7260
- El Concilio: (209) 644-2600
- Health Plan of San Joaquin: 1-888-936-PLAN (7526) TTY 711
Find your county Medi-Cal office here:
Affordable Care Options
No Insurance? No Problem. Golden Valley Health Centers cares for everyone. Our Sliding Fee Scale Program offers reduced costs based on income and family size, so care remains affordable. If you’ve recently lost coverage or your renewal is delayed, you can still be seen at GVHC.
Call us at (209) 722-4842 if you have questions about our Sliding Fee Scale.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
GVHC offers Behavioral Health services in all three counties. We can make you an appointment today.
You can call Golden Valley Health Centers at (209) 722-4842 to request a telehealth or virtual urgent care appointment from the comfort of your home.
Yes. Golden Valley Health Centers provides care to everyone, regardless of insurance or immigration status.
Yes. Golden Valley Health Centers offers a Sliding Fee Discount Program, which allows uninsured patients to pay for services based on their income and family size. No one is turned away.
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