Medi-Cal covers more than most people realize
California's Medi-Cal program provides comprehensive substance use disorder (SUD) treatment to eligible residents — often with no out-of-pocket cost. This coverage is available through the Drug Medi-Cal Organized Delivery System (DMC-ODS), a county-organized network of treatment providers.
What Medi-Cal covers for substance use
- Outpatient treatment (standard and intensive)
- Residential treatment (short-term and long-term)
- Withdrawal management (detox)
- Medication-assisted treatment (Suboxone, Methadone, Vivitrol)
- Recovery support services
- Case management
Am I eligible?
Most low-income Californians qualify for Medi-Cal. As of 2024, California has expanded eligibility to most adults regardless of immigration status. Income limits generally apply at 138% of the federal poverty level for most adults.
If you're unsure whether you qualify, Empathix can help you determine your eligibility in minutes — without you having to navigate the state system alone.
DMC-ODS: County by county
The DMC-ODS program operates at the county level. Major counties with robust networks include Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, Sacramento, Alameda, and Orange County. Each county has a network of certified treatment providers.
One important note: Medi-Cal typically requires you to use in-network, county-certified providers. Empathix knows which facilities are in the DMC-ODS network and can connect you with the right program quickly.
How to get started with Medi-Cal treatment
The process can feel overwhelming — county systems, benefit codes, authorization requirements. You don't have to figure this out yourself. Empathix navigates the administrative side while you focus on what matters: getting well.
Contact us today and we'll verify your Medi-Cal benefits, identify an appropriate facility, and coordinate the first steps of your placement.