Medicaid is the federal and state government-funded health insurance program available to low-income Americans of all ages. The federally regulated program is adapted and administered by each state to best meet the needs of its most vulnerable residents, including young children and their parents, expectant mothers, people with disabilities and the elderly.
Qualifying for California Medicaid
Residents of California who are American citizens or legal immigrants may qualify for no- or low-cost health care coverage through the state Medicaid program known as Medi-Cal. Seniors aged 65 or older and disabled or blind adults receiving Supplemental Security Income benefits are automatically eligible for full-scope Medi-Cal coverage. Others must meet the program’s financial requirements that allow:
- Up to $1,242 in monthly income and $2,000 in countable resources for single applicants
- Up to $1,682 in monthly income and $3,000 in countable resources for married couples applying together
All sources of income count toward the Medi-Cal limits, but some resources are disregarded, such as one vehicle, personal effects, a primary home and household furnishings.
Those who meet the functional requirements for institutional nursing home care can qualify at any income level. Approved applicants may keep $35 as a monthly personal needs allowance and any excess income up to the facility’s rate must go toward their care costs.
To apply for Medi-Cal, seniors can complete an application online, call (800) 300-1506 or visit the San Bernardino County Transitional Assistance office at 10825 Arrow Route in Rancho Cucamonga.
Medi-Cal Assisted Living Waiver
Medi-Cal eligible residents of Chino Hills who meet the requirements for long-term care coverage but want to avoid institutional nursing home admission may apply for the Assisted Living waiver. This Medi-Cal Home and Community-Based Services waiver is offered to provide seniors with a higher quality of life in a less restrictive environment and reduce the cost of long-term care. Applicants must be aged 21 or older and be:
- Eligible for full-scope Medi-Cal coverage without a share of cost
- Assessed as requiring a nursing-facility level of care
- Able to safely live in a community setting
- Willing to relocate to a licensed, participating assisted living facility
The ALW program doesn’t cover the cost of assisted living room and board, but it does provide a number of support services, such as:
- Care coordination and transitional assistance
- Recreational activities and social services
- Housekeeping and laundry
- Prepared meals and snacks
- Personal care and help with activities of daily living
- Medication administration assistance
- Transportation
The ALW isn’t a Medi-Cal entitlement program and participation is available on a first-come, first-served basis, so approved applicants may be placed on a waiting list based on availability.
Chino Hills residents can learn more about the ALW or begin the application process by contacting the local Care Coordination Agency serving San Bernardino County, All Hours Adult Care, at (844) 657-4748.