How to Join CalOptima Health Medi-Cal

To apply, you will need to show certain records to prove who you are, your income, where you live and other details. These include:

• Proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license, passport)
• Proof of income (e.g., pay stubs, tax returns)
• Proof of residency (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement)

There are many ways to get help and apply for Medi-Cal:

• Online — 
  • Apply for Medi-Cal through Covered California
  • Apply for Medi-Cal and other programs, such as CalWORKs and CalFresh, through BenefitsCal.
  • See tips to speed up your application for health coverage
• Mail—print and mail your single streamlined application from the Department of  health care Services (DHCS), provided in multiple languages.
• In person—visit one of SSA’s local offices.
• Phone—call SSA at 1-800-281-9799, Monday–Friday, from 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
• Enrollment navigators—talk to a Medi-Cal enrollment navigator through some of our community partners to get help applying for Medi-Cal.

Once your Medi-Cal application is approved, you’ll get a packet in the mail with more info. It will have steps on how to choose us as your Medi-Cal health plan. Choosing CalOptima Health means joining a trusted community-based organization dedicated to serving Orange County residents. We offer a network of over 7,000 doctors, so you have access to high-quality care close to home.

You’ll get a confirmation letter and your CalOptima Health member ID card. This card is key to using the many benefits available to you through our Medi-Cal plan. It has important details about your coverage, such as your member ID number, primary care provider (if chosen) and info on how to access services.

Congratulations—you’re a CalOptima Health member! You can now make use of full health care services at little to no cost. These include: 

• Doctor visits and hospital care—visit doctors and specialists in our network as well as get covered for inpatient and outpatient hospital services, including emergency care
• Mental health services—access mental health support, including counseling and treatment for depression, anxiety and other conditions
• Medicines and medical supplies—pick up the medicines you need at your local pharmacy and get essential medical devices, such as wheelchairs and hearing aids
• Vision care—schedule your routine eye exams and receive corrective lenses
• Transportation—use our transportation services to get to and from your doctor visits on time
• Long-term care—receive long-term care services in nursing facilities or at home, if you need them