SACRAMENTO – California today became the first state in the nation to offer a targeted set of Medicaid (Medi-Cal in California) services to youth and adults in state prisons, county jails, and youth correctional facilities for up to 90 days prior to release. Currently, Medi-Cal services are generally available only after release from incarceration. Through a federal Medicaid 1115 demonstration waiver, the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) will establish a coordinated community reentry process that will assist people leaving incarceration to connect to the physical and behavioral health services they need upon release. “Californians who reenter the community following incarceration have significant physical and behavioral health needs and are at high-risk of injury and death, especially in the days and weeks immediately following their release,” said Jacey Cooper, California’s State Medicaid Director and DHCS Chief Deputy Director for Health Care Programs. “Our justice-involved initiative is a key part of the state’s plan to create a new standard for what person-centered and equity-focused care looks like for all Californians, including the currently and formerly incarcerated.” “Today we take a step closer to realizing the promise of our vision of a Healthy California for All, where health equity is a true priority,” said Dr. Mark Ghaly, Secretary of the California Health & Human Services Agency. “Historically, Californians residing in prisons, jails, and juvenile detention facilities have gaps in their health care services and transition back into their communities with limited services and without a solid plan. Individuals living with HIV, hypertension, diabetes, epilepsy, cancer, schizophrenia, or addictions can now expect to have the support they need to more securely land on their feet when they leave, with the medications they need, the appointments they need, and the connection to services that are life sustaining and life-saving. Through this initiative, those leaving incarcerated settings will have access to services that make it less likely they go straight from an incarcerated setting to an emergency room or hospital. This initiative will have a lasting impact on individuals as they return to the community by providing stable and reliable access to the care they need. We extend our gratitude and thanks to our federal partners for their innovative spirit and collaborative partnership.”

The two-page Press Release is attached.