Gateway — How can I get Medi-Cal Services TODAY!
The California Department of Health Care Services has developed an electronic "gateway" at CHDP provider offices and clinics to link children with temporary full scope Medi-Cal coverage. This health insurance coverage is only temporary. A parent or guardian must complete a joint Medi-Cal/Covered CA application to continue this health care coverage.
The Gateway offers preventative care for children, care for children when they get sick, pre-enrollments in comprehensive health insurance, and a doctor that knows your child or a medical home.
Who is eligible?
Children and youth who:
- do not have medical insurance
- are under 19 years of age
- live in California
- have family incomes at or below 200% of federal income guidelines
Children already enrolled in full scope Medi-Cal are not eligible for the Gateway. If your child is not eligible for Medi-Cal, he/she may continue to get well-child exams at no cost through the CHDP Program.
How do I apply for Gateway?
Step 1
The provider's office talks to the client about health insurance. If the client does not have insurance, the parent/guardian completes a CHDP pre-enrollment application.If the client has insurance, provider bills accordingly or refers client to an appropriate provider.
Step 2
The CHDP Provider enters the client's data into the computer and temporary Medi-Cal eligibility is effective immediately.
Step 3
If the parents complete their paperwork within two months and their family is eligible, their children will continue to receive Medi-Cal.
If eligible for temporary full-scope Medi-Cal, the child receives a CHDP exam and temporary full-scope Medi-Cal for the month seen and one month after. An application will be mailed to the client's home for on-going Medi-Cal.