It’s critical that California continues to ensure children and young people have timely access to the health care they need. Optimal health impacts a child’s academic achievement and long-term well-being, but many California children and families are uninsured or lack access to routine check-ups and other preventive health services.
In 2019, there were 334,000 uninsured kids in California. This year, the COVID-19 pandemic and immigration fears due to policy changes at the federal level have contributed to a stagnation or, in some cases, a decline in health coverage enrollment, putting the health of children and youth at risk, and exacerbating racial and economic disparities.
We must work collectively to connect children and youth to coverage and care.
Help us spread the word about getting health care and staying covered by sharing these key reminders with your community:
- Covered California’s 2021 enrollment period is now open. Families can explore and apply for health coverage on www.coveredca.com.
- Medi-Cal enrollment is open year-round and medically necessary COVID-19 testing is FREE, regardless of immigration status. Learn more by calling (800) 300-1506 or visiting www.coveredca.com.
- Medi-Cal covers young adults up to age 26, regardless of immigration status. Former foster youth may be eligible regardless of income.
- Medi-Cal coverage is protected through the public health emergency, currently through January 20, 2021, and benefits cannot be terminated during this time.
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