Medi-Cal Cares for You and Your Baby Every Step of the Way

January 26, 2026

Medi-Cal in San Diego County has expanded maternal health services to address significant disparities in care, particularly for Black families who face disproportionate health risks during pregnancy and postpartum. The program provides comprehensive coverage from the first prenatal appointment through a child's first birthday, including medical, dental, vision, and behavioral health services for eligible individuals regardless of immigration status. Key initiatives include the Birthing Care Pathway and Postpartum Pathway, which standardize care delivery, along with covered doula services that provide emotional support and advocacy throughout the pregnancy journey.

Who is affected

Pregnant and postpartum people in San Diego County who qualify for Medi-Cal
Black families in San Diego County (specifically emphasized due to health disparities)
Babies through their first birthday
Medi-Cal-eligible individuals regardless of immigration status
Healthcare providers delivering maternal care services

What action is being taken

Medi-Cal is expanding and coordinating maternal health services
The Birthing Care Pathway is being implemented to guide prenatal care, screenings, behavioral health check-ins, nutrition support, and delivery preparation
Medi-Cal is covering doula services including prenatal visits, labor and delivery support, and postpartum follow-up
The Postpartum Pathway is defining and promoting care standards through 12 months after birth
Medi-Cal is providing perinatal behavioral health services, dental benefits, and vision care
CalAIM is delivering Community Supports such as transitional housing assistance and medically tailored meals

Why it matters

This expanded care system addresses critical maternal health disparities, particularly for Black families who face the greatest risks, with more than half of California's pregnancy-related deaths occurring after childbirth. The comprehensive approach tackles both medical needs and social drivers of health, aiming to reduce preventable deaths, improve birth outcomes, and ensure equitable access to respectful, coordinated care. By covering services regardless of immigration status and providing support through a child's first birthday, the program removes barriers that have historically left vulnerable families without adequate care during this critical period.

What's next

Pregnant and postpartum people in San Diego County can contact the San Diego County Medi-Cal office at (866) 262-9881 or call the number on their Medi-Cal card to enroll in coverage, choose a health plan, find providers, or access doula and postpartum services.

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint