A new federal rule changes how some members get Medi-Cal based on their immigration status. Starting January 1, 2027, these members will get Medi-Cal through Fee-for-Service (FFS) instead of through a health plan like San Francisco Health Plan (SFHP).

If this affects you, you are not losing your Medi-Cal. Fee-for-Service does not mean you have to pay for covered services. What’s different is that SFHP will no longer be your health plan, but Medi-Cal will still pay for your care.

Who this change affects

This change applies to Medi-Cal members who are:

• Undocumented
• Green card holders (lawful permanent residents) who must wait five years for full Medi-Cal
• Allowed to live in the U.S. but do not have official immigration status (PRUCOL)

Not sure if this applies to you? Visit Immigration Status and Medi-Cal Changes to learn more.

Changes to care starting January 1, 2027

If this change applies to you, here is what will be different:

• You will be moved from SFHP to Medi-Cal Fee-for-Service. This means you will no longer be an SFHP Medi-Cal member.
• You can go to any doctor or clinic that takes Medi-Cal Fee-for-Service. Most SFHP providers will accept Medi-Cal Fee-for-Service. Contact your doctor’s office to confirm or check online.
• You can still get mental health care like therapy, counseling, and medicine visits through Medi-Cal Fee-for-Service.
• Your medicines stay covered through Medi-Cal Rx.
• Your dental care stays the same.
• If your child gets CCS (California Children’s Services), those services will continue.

What to do now

Take these steps so there is no gap in your care.

1. Keep your contact information up to date. This helps Medi-Cal reach you with important updates.
• Report any changes to your name, address, phone number or email.
• The fastest way to update is online at BenefitsCal.com. You can also call or visit the county Medi-Cal office.
2. Check if your doctor takes Medi-Cal Fee-for-Service.
3. Use your Medi-Cal (BIC) card.
• This is the card you will use for Medi-Cal Fee-for-Service.
• Bring it to all medical, dental, and pharmacy visits.
• Your SFHP card will not work anymore starting January 1, 2027.
• Need a new BIC card? Contact the county Medi-Cal office or request one at BenefitsCal.com.
4. Watch your mail. Open Medi-Cal letters right away and respond fast. If this change affects you, DHCS will send you a letter about what it means to your coverage.
5. Renew your Medi-Cal on time so you stay covered.

Additional resources

Learn about the change

• Fee-for-Service Transition: the main page for members
• Immigration Status and Medi-Cal Changes: see if this applies to you
• Member FAQs: English | Español | 繁體中文

Find care and get help

• Find your county Medi-Cal office
• Medi-Cal Help Center
• Medi-Cal Contact Us page