Insurance Resources for Children

CalWORKs
If you are a family with children up to age 18 in need of assistance, you may be eligible to get cash, Food Stamps and Medi-Cal through the Cal WORKs Program at your local Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) Office.  You can also be helped with child care and transportation.
(310) 481-4018
www.co.la.ca.us/dpss

MEDI-CAL
If your children under age 21 need medical services, the Medi-Cal Program provides free or low-cost health care coverage to children in low-income families.  You may apply at the local Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) Office or at many clinics, schools, and service agencies in your community.
1-877-597-4777
www.co.la.ca.us/dpss

MEDI-CAL MANAGED CARE
If you receive Medi-Cal, you may be required to choose one of many health plans which provide quality medical care.  The health plans in Los Angeles are divided into two managed care organizations: L.A. Care and Health Net.
L.A. Care 1-888-452-2273
HEALTH NET 1-800-675-6110

HEALTHY FAMILIES
If you do not have health insurance or free (no-share-of-cost) Medi-Cal to cover the medical needs of your children, who are age 1 up to 19, the Healthy Families Program provides low-cost health insurance coverage.  Please call the above telephone number if you would like a mail-in application, or call 1-800-880-5305.  You may also pick up an application booklet at many local schools, clinics, service agencies, churches and at all DPSS offices.
http://www.mrmib.ca.gov/

FREE AND LOW-COST HEALTH SERVICES
Medical services for your children are available at public/private clinics, hospitals and many other locations.  These services including tests and prescriptions are provided on an ability-to-pay basis and can be provided at no cost depending on your income.  Please call the telephone number below for the location nearest you.
1-800-427-8700
http://www.dhs.co.la.

KAISER PERMANENTE CARES FOR KIDS CHILD HEALTH PLAN
If your child has no medical coverage and is under age 19, this program can provide low-cost health insurance.  The Child Health Plan is open to eligible children under age 19 who live within Kaiser Permanente's California Service Area and are enrolled in participating public schools.
1-800-255-5053

HEALTH INSURANCE PREMIUM PAYMENT PROGRAM (HIPP)
If your child is eligible for Medi-Cal and is seriously ill with high cost medical bills and has or has access to private health coverage, this special State Medi-Cal Program can help pay your child's health insurance premium. Certain restrictions may apply.
1-800-952-5294

CALIFORNIA CHILDREN SERVICES (CCS) PROGRAM
This program provides medical care for children whose families cannot afford all or part of their health care needs.  The program only treats children with certain physical limitations and diseases.
1-800-288-4584

MENTAL HEALTH
Children, including juvenile wards of the court or special education students, may be eligible for free or low-cost mental health services.
1-800-854-7771

SUBSTANCE ABUSE
If your child needs treatment for drug or alcohol abuse, there are places where you can get help.  Some programs will allow your child to live at the facility while undergoing treatment.
1-800-564-6600