If I already have private insurance, do I need Medi-Cal?

While you don't need to apply for Medi-Cal if you already have private coverage, there are advantages to using Medi-Cal as secondary coverage. One of the biggest is IHSS, which you must have Medi-Cal to qualify for.

Another reason is that the majority of medical facilities where you child will need blood work, X-rays, prescriptions, etc., accept Medi-Cal, which can cover your copays on prescriptions or lab work.

Additionally, if your child gets injured or sick and is hospitalized, private insurance coverage for hospital stays is often a 20% copay until you meet your out of pocket. Virtually all hospitals take Medi-Cal, so you will save money on out-of-pocket costs with Medi-Cal coverage.

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