What is the difference between Covered California and Medi-Cal?

Covered California and Medi-Cal are both healthcare programs, but they serve different populations and have different eligibility criteria. Covered California is an online health insurance marketplace where individuals and families can compare and purchase private health insurance plans. It is designed for Californians who do not qualify for other government programs, such as Medi-Cal. Medi-Cal, on the other hand, provides free or low-cost health coverage to low-income individuals, families, children, pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities. It is a public insurance program administered by the state of California and funded by both state and federal governments. Medi-Cal offers a comprehensive set of benefits and serves as a safety net for those who cannot afford private health insurance or do not have access to employer-sponsored coverage. In summary, Covered California helps individuals choose and buy private health insurance plans, while Medi-Cal provides no-cost or low-cost health coverage for those with limited income.