Santa Cruz County Warns Immigrants of 2026 Medi-Cal Changes
Santa Cruz County health officials are informing local immigrant residents about significant changes to the Medi-Cal program set to take effect on January 1, 2026. These adjustments primarily affect individuals with an Unsatisfactory Immigration Status, who will no longer receive full state-funded Medi-Cal coverage after this date. However, the enrollment window remains open until the end of 2025, allowing individuals to secure medical, behavioral health, and dental benefits.
Irma Marquez, director of the Human Services Department’s Employment and Benefit Services Division, emphasized the importance of timely enrollment. “If you already have Medi-Cal or if you enroll before January, you can stay enrolled in full scope Medi-Cal regardless of your immigration status,” she stated. This continuity of care is vital for maintaining access to essential services, including doctor visits and prescriptions.
Youth aged 18 and younger, as well as pregnant individuals not currently enrolled, will retain eligibility for full Medi-Cal coverage beyond the upcoming changes. As outlined by the California Department of Health Care Services, those with Unsatisfactory Immigration Status may find their coverage impacted due to their immigration situation not meeting full benefit requirements.
Currently, around 95% of Santa Cruz County’s nearly 260,000 residents possess health insurance. Local health experts highlight that high insurance rates help lower overall healthcare costs, benefiting both insured and uninsured individuals. When uncompensated care increases, healthcare providers, particularly hospitals, often raise revenue through other means, which can affect the broader insured population.
In 2026, further changes to Medi-Cal will be implemented for those with Unsatisfactory Immigration Status. These include a new requirement to renew enrollment every six months and the introduction of a $30 monthly premium. Failure to pay this premium for three consecutive months could lead to a loss of coverage. However, if premiums are repaid within 90 days, individuals may regain full coverage, albeit without dental benefits.
Connie Moreno-Peraza, director of the county Health Services Agency, reiterated the commitment to community health. “The health of our entire community is a priority for us,” she said. The county plans to continue addressing the healthcare needs of low-income and uninsured residents via County Health Centers, collaborating with community partners to ensure residents remain well-informed about significant changes.
For further assistance, Santa Cruz County provides information on social safety net services at santacruzcountyca.gov/Sanctuary.aspx. Residents can also reach the Employment and Benefit Services Division at 888-421-8080. Additional Medi-Cal dental provider information is available at smilecalifornia.org/find-adentist, or through customer service at 800-322-6384. Comprehensive details on Medi-Cal can also be found at the California Department of Health Care Services website: dhcs.ca.gov/Medi-Cal/Pages/changes.aspx.
