By: Karli Holkko, Director of Government Affairs, CalPACE and Todd Okino, Director of Marketing, Brandman Centers for Senior Care PACE
As a senior citizen in California, when it comes to getting Healthcare, it’s important to know, there are two ways to pay for it:
1) Private insurance or private pay out of your pocket.
2) Government programs: Medicare, Veterans Affairs, or Medi-Cal.
If you’ve not applied for Medi-Cal before or you have and you’re still not sure how it works, it can be confusing and stressful.
for many seniors and their loved ones. With a better understanding many may realize it could be just the right answer to pay for their medical needs. Medi-Cal is the State of California’s version of the nationwide federal Medicaid state program. Medi-Cal helps in addition to Medicare with health care costs should there be a long term medical need.
It can be challenging to suggest it’s time for parents to apply for Medi-Cal as they age and their health degenerates. Some seniors may feel there is a stigma to asking for this help. They have worked for everything their entire lives and may think Medi-Cal is only for those with low or no income.
Common replies when talking about Medi-Cal with a Senior might include:
“I own a house, an investment portfolio or some property-so I don’t believe I qualify.”
“I don’t think I’d qualify since I’ve had a regular job in the past.”
“Medi-Cal is only for poor people. I worked my entire life, paying my own way.”
“I don’t have citizen documentation papers and don’t want trouble with the Immigration.”
“It’s complicated and takes too long, like getting a driver’s license or unemployment.”
“I probably won’t get it approved and it probably won’t save me much money, right?”
To address the points and questions above, you should take a closer look to learn the facts around Medi-Cal, and all of the care and support it can bring to today’s senior.
The State of California is one of the most supportive states for seniors. In addition, the number of improvements made to existing senior programs in recent years makes it worthwhile for ALL Seniors to apply. There are now more opportunities to get full Medi-Cal benefits and be eligible to join Senior Healthcare programs and plans like PACE (Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) with zero out of pocket costs to the participant.
"The expansion of Medi-Cal to undocumented individuals aged 50 and older, along with the removal of the asset test, marks a monumental step forward for California. These policy changes significantly enhance access to vital healthcare services for low-income older adults, ensuring that more people can receive the long-term care they need without the barriers that once held them back. California is leading the way in creating a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system for all."
Karli Holkko
Director of Government Affairs, CalPACE
Starting May 1, 2022: Individuals ages 50 and over, regardless of their immigration status, are now eligible for Medi-Cal.
Beginning on January 1, 2024: Seniors, are now eligible for Medi-Cal, regardless of assets. California is the first state in the nation to eliminate its asset test for ALL Medi-Cal programs.
Seniors who own a House, Car, or other Assets- apply for Medi-Cal now!
Individuals on SSI are automatically eligible for full Medi-Cal
Individuals who have income over the Medi-Cal income limit may still be eligible for Medi-Cal with a small share of cost.
Seniors with more Health Needs than money-just go apply for Medi-Cal!
