Health Coverage Changes
Changes Coming to Medi-Cal and Health Coverage: Everything you need to know
State and federal policy changes may affect Medi-Cal, Covered California, dental benefits, and other public assistance programs over the next two years.
Some changes may impact who qualifies for coverage, what services are covered, when you need to renew your benefits, and how much you pay for health insurance.
Venice Family Clinic is committed to helping patients understand these changes and stay connected to care. Below, you can find the most up-to-date information about changes coming to public assistance health programs.
If you have questions about your health coverage, our enrollment and eligibility teams are here to help. Call us at (310) 664-7509 or email VFCHealthCoverage@mednet.ucla.edu to talk with an expert how these changes may affect you and get help maintaining your coverage.
Changes Beginning in Summer 2026
CalFresh Work Requirements
Beginning June 1, 2026, some CalFresh recipients may need to show that they are working or participating in qualifying work activities for at least 80 hours each month to continue receiving benefits.
Certain individuals may qualify for exemptions.
Visit our volunteer page for information about how you can fulfill work requirements with Venice Family Clinic.
Dental Coverage Changes
Starting July 1, 2026, some Medi-Cal members with “Unsatisfactory Immigration Status (UIS)” may lose coverage for routine dental services and retain coverage only for emergency dental care.
Later in 2026, some lawful permanent residents who have had their status for fewer than five years may also lose access to non-emergency Medi-Cal dental coverage.
Medi-Cal’s definition of “Unsatisfactory Immigration Status” can be complex and eligibility depends on an individual’s immigration category. If you are unsure whether these changes affect you, please contact our enrollment team for assistance.
Changes beginning in 2027
New Medi-Cal Work Requirements
Beginning January 1, 2027, many adults ages 19–64 enrolled in Medi-Cal may be required to show that they are working or participating in approved work activities for at least 80 hours per month to maintain coverage.
Some groups will be exempt, including certain parents, people with disabilities, pregnant individuals, and others.
More Frequent Medi-Cal Renewals
It will be important to update your contact information and respond promptly to notices from Medi-Cal to avoid losing coverage.
Shorter Retroactive Coverage Period
New Monthly Premium for Some Medi-Cal Members
Changes to Financial Assistance Through Covered California
Active Renewal Required for Covered California
Starting in October 2027, Covered California plans will no longer automatically renew for most members.
If you have a Covered California plan, you will need to actively renew your coverage each year. Missing the renewal deadline could result in losing financial assistance and facing higher premiums.
Changes to Medicare Eligibility
Some categories of lawfully present immigrants may no longer qualify for Medicare coverage under the new rules.
Changes that began in winter 2026
Changes to Medi-Cal Eligibility for Some New Applicants
Beginning January 1, 2026, new Medi-Cal applicants who do not have satisfactory immigration status may only qualify for emergency and pregnancy-related services.
People who already had Medi-Cal may have had different eligibility rules.
Changes for Older Adults and People With Disabilities
Medi-Cal reinstated an asset test for certain older adults and people with disabilities. Eligibility may depend on the value of savings, investments, and other assets. Asset limit became $130,000 for one individual up to $195,000 for two.
Changes to Weight-Loss Medication Coverage on Medi-Cal
Medi-Cal no longer covers GLP-1 medications prescribed solely for weight loss.
Covered California Open Enrollment Deadline Changed
Starting for 2026 coverage, the Covered California open enrollment period was shortened. Most people had to enroll in a health plan by December 31 rather than having until the end of January.
Higher Covered California Costs
Enhanced federal financial assistance that helped lower monthly premiums expired. As a result, Covered California members saw higher monthly insurance costs.
People who underestimated their annual income when applying for Covered California may also face larger repayment obligations when filing taxes.
What You Can Do Now
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- Make sure Medi-Cal and Covered California have your current mailing address, phone number, and email address.
- Open and respond to any notices about your coverage.
- Renew your benefits on time.
- Report changes to your income, household size, or address promptly.
- Seek help as soon as possible if you receive a notice you do not understand.
Need Help?
Venice Family Clinic’s enrollment and eligibility specialists can help you understand your options, determine whether these changes affect you, and connect you with available programs.
If you have questions about your Medi-Cal or Covered California coverage, contact our health insurance enrollment team by calling us at (310) 664-7509 or by emailing VFCHealthCoverage@mednet.ucla.edu.