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
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:
- Stanislaus County
- Health Services Agency: (209) 558-7000
- Merced County
- Human Services Agency: (855) 421-6770
- San Joaquin County
- Human Services Agency: (209) 468-1000
Enrollment Assistance
Medi-Cal enrollment assistance is available Mon–Fri, 8 AM–6 PM by calling (209) 237-1610.
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.
Our Enrollment Team is available Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, at (209) 237-1610 to help you renew or reapply for Medi-Cal.
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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