Northern California resources
Medi-Cal and Assisted Living in California
Room and board versus care services
A Residential Care Facility for the Elderly bills for two different things: the room and board portion, and the care services portion. Medi-Cal does not pay the room and board portion of an RCFE. Where a program applies, it addresses care services.
Where Medi-Cal does pay
- Skilled nursing facility care for people who meet the clinical and financial criteria.
- Certain home and community based services, depending on the program and county.
- Care services in participating RCFEs through the Assisted Living Waiver, where the waiver operates and capacity is available.
Practical implications for a search
If a family expects to rely on a Medi-Cal program eventually, the list of realistic communities narrows considerably — participation is voluntary and slots are limited. We factor that into recommendations rather than discovering it at move-in.
Where to get an eligibility answer
Eligibility questions are answered by the county Medi-Cal office and, in the waiver's case, by the enrollment entity for that program. An elder law attorney can help with complex asset situations.
CareWise provides information and guidance about these programs. We do not determine eligibility, and program rules, limits, and availability change. Confirm current requirements with the administering agency or a qualified professional.
Talk through your situation with an advisor.
No cost to your family. We'll help you understand the options before you tour.