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Medi-Cal for Pregnancy

If you’re pregnant and need health insurance, Medi-Cal and related programs can help you get covered quickly.

What to Know Before You Apply

Covered California and Medi-Cal are part of the same system. When you apply through Covered California, we automatically check to see if you qualify for Medi-Cal or a related program.

Pregnancy and childbirth services are covered under all health insurance plans available through Covered California and Medi-Cal. Pregnancy alone does not qualify you for a Covered California special-enrollment period. However, you can apply for a Covered California plan once your baby is born.

When you apply, answer "yes" when asked if you are pregnant. If you don’t report your pregnancy, you may miss out on insurance you are eligible for.

Pregnancy Coverage Options

The program you qualify for depends on your income, immigration status and how quickly you need health insurance.

Program
Program
Whom It Helps
What It Covers
How Long Insurance Lasts
Full-Scope Medi-Cal
Pregnant people who meet standard Medi-Cal eligibility requirements
Prenatal care, labor and delivery, postpartum care, dental, mental health and other medically necessary services
Pregnancy, plus 12 months after pregnancy ends
Medi-Cal for Pregnant Individuals
Pregnant people living in California who aren’t legal residents, and who don’t qualify for full-scope Medi-Cal
All medically necessary services, plus dental and mental health services
Pregnancy, plus 12 months after pregnancy ends
Medi-Cal Access Program (MCAP)
Pregnant people whose income is too high for other Medi-Cal programs
Comprehensive insurance at no cost, with no copays or deductibles for covered services
Pregnancy, plus 12 months after pregnancy ends
Presumptive Eligibility for Pregnant Individuals
Pregnant people — or those who think they may be pregnant — who need insurance right away while they wait for their Medi-Cal application to be processed
Prenatal care, care related to pregnancy loss and prescription drugs related to pregnancy. It does not cover labor and delivery or other hospitalization.
Up to 60 days

Ready to apply?

You can apply at any time to see which program you qualify for. Your insurance can start quickly, and in some cases right away.

Apply Now

Questions About Pregnancy Coverage