What is considered straight Medi-Cal?


Editorial team Published on

Straight Medi-Cal (also called regular Medi-Cal or fee-for-service) is a healthcare coverage type where the state pays doctors and medical providers directly instead of using a managed care health plan.

How Straight Medi-Cal Works

  • Fee-for-Service: The state pays individual providers for each service they give you.
  • Provider Choice: You can see any doctor, clinic, or specialist who accepts regular Medi-Cal. You do not need to pick a specific primary care network or HMO plan.
  • Temporary Status: Most people only have straight Medi-Cal for a short time, such as right after approval before they get assigned to a managed care plan, or during special transition periods.
  • ID Card: You use your state-issued Medi-Cal Benefits Identification Card (BIC) directly at the doctor's office.

Straight Medi-Cal vs. Managed Care

  • Straight Medi-Cal: The state handles billing and payments directly with any provider accepting Medi-Cal. It covers less than 20% of enrollees and is used for specific gaps or transitional times.
  • Managed Care Plans: More than 80% of members enroll in a managed care plan (like an HMO), where a specific network of doctors and hospitals coordinates your care.