What is the difference between Covered California and Medi-Cal?

Covered California and Medi-Cal are both programs designed to provide health insurance coverage to residents of California, but they serve different populations and have distinct characteristics. Covered California is the state’s health insurance marketplace where individuals, families, and small businesses can compare and purchase health insurance plans. This program was established under the Affordable Care Act and aims to make health insurance more accessible and affordable for those who do not qualify for Medi-Cal. Covered California offers a variety of private health plans, and depending on an individual’s income, they may be eligible for premium subsidies or cost-sharing reductions to help lower the costs of coverage. Medi-Cal, on the other hand, is California's Medicaid program, which provides free or low-cost health coverage to eligible low-income individuals and families. The eligibility for Medi-Cal is primarily determined by income, family size, and other factors such as age, disability status, and pregnancy. Medi-Cal offers comprehensive health services, including hospital care, preventive services, and long-term care. It is aimed primarily at those with a lower income who may not be able to afford other forms of health insurance. In essence, while both Covered California and Medi-Cal play crucial roles in providing health coverage to Californians, Covered California focuses on those who can afford private insurance but may require assistance, whereas Medi-Cal caters to low-income individuals and families who need more substantial financial support in obtaining necessary health care services. For more information about specific requirements and benefits of each program, one might consider visiting the official Covered California website.