How do I use Medi-Cal to cover copays and deductibles?

If there are remaining costs or copayments after the primary insurance pays its share, Medi-Cal can be billed for the amount not covered by the primary insurance, up to the Medi-Cal reimbursable rate, if the provider is contracted with the specific form of Medi-Cal that the child receives. In practice, this will look like presenting your primary insurance card along with your Medi-Cal card to a provider and asking them to bill Medi-Cal after the private insurance pays its portion.

You should also note that many providers who contract with a Medi-Cal managed care plan may not accept straight Medi-Cal. Because Medi-Cal supports your primary insurance (including vision and dental insurance) and does not override it, you should first make sure your physician, facility, or service accepts your primary insurance. Then, you can ask if they accept fee-for-service or straight Medi-Cal. If they do, they can bill your primary insurance before billing the amount not covered to Medi-Cal.

For more information, see How to Use Medi-Cal as Secondary Insurance.