If you and your family need health insurance but you have a low annual income, you may wonder how you can pay for coverage. Thankfully, Medical Cal, California's Medicaid program, provides free or low-cost services to low-income families. Read on to get answers to your questions about Medi Cal.

How do you know if your income meets the required range?

You can contact the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) in your state to see if you qualify for this program. Typically, the more people in your family, the higher the range of allowable income. However, Medi Cal can also cover those with refugee status, those who are pregnant, those who are under 21, and those who are disabled.

What types of healthcare services can you get?

Medi Cal can be used to pay for

• maternity care

• mental health care

• dental care

• pediatric care (including dental and vision care)

• prescription medications

• laboratory services

• hospitalizations and ER services

• primary care and preventative services

Keep in mind that children can get full dental and vision care coverage, but adults may only get partial coverage in these areas. For instance, you may be able to get coverage for dental cleanings, but you may need to pay a portion for root canals or appliances like dentures. You may be able to get an eye exam every year, but you'll need to pay a portion to get new glasses frames.

What if there are out-of-pocket costs?

Even though Medicaid can cover a lot of services for free, each state can impose laws regarding co-payments, deductibles, and other fees. Thankfully, many of these fees are nominal and are intended to be affordable for people on Medicaid.

When should you apply?

You can apply any time in person at your county social service offices, or you can apply online or by mail. However, keep in mind that if your situation changes—such as if you get married, start making more money, etc., you may no longer be eligible for Medi Cal, so you will need to enroll in a health plan through Covered California. There is an enrollment period for Covered California plans, so you'll have to visit your health insurance marketplace soon after the Medi Cal notice of action if you no longer qualify for Medi Cal.

How do you find providers?

Keep in mind that not every doctor's office or health facility will accept Medi Cal. You need to look up your specific program in California's health plan directory to find providers in your area before making an appointment.

Reach out to an insurance provider in your area for more information on Medi Cal.