Replacing a Lost California Medi-Cal Card: A Quick Guide

The California Department of Health Care Services offers Medi-Cal care to residents who live well below the poverty line. Medi-Cal is the state's version of the federal Medicaid program. Residents receive medical benefits at little or no cost when presenting a Medi-Cal card to the medical provider. Without a Medi-Cal card, the provider cannot authorize benefits. If you lose your California Medi-Cal card, you should replace it immediately.

Instructions

• 1

  The California Department of Health Care Services provides a list of every County Welfare Department. Contact the County Welfare Department to request a new Medi-Cal card.

• 2

  Explain to the Welfare Department representative that you lost your Medi-Cal card and need to replace it.

• 3

  Provide your name, Social Security Number and home address. If the office asks for photo identification, you might need to visit the office in person. Before a new card is issued, you must prove your identity to help prevent fraud. Your new card will be mailed to you within one week.