Frequently Asked Questions - Medi-Cal

If you do not see your question answered here, please call Community Health Group’s Member Services Department at 1-800-224-7766 or TTY 1-855-266-4584.

What is the difference between a Medi-Cal benefits identification card (BIC) and a Community Health Group (CHG) identification card?

The BIC is a card issued by the County of San Diego Social Services Agency. It is used to obtain Medi-Cal covered services. The Community Health Group ID card is issued by Community Health Group Medi-Cal.

The CHG card helps to identify you as a Community Health Group member. It is important to have all health insurance cards with you and present them to your provider when you access health care services.

What if your ID card is lost?

If you lose your BIC, call or visit your local County of San Diego Social Services Agency at 1-866-262-9881.

If you lose your Community Health Group ID card, you can:

How do you change your primary care physician (PCP)?

You may change your PCP for any reason by:

Are you responsible for any co-pays, premiums, or out of pocket expenses?

There are no co-payments, premiums or out of pocket expenses that you are responsible for.

What if you get a bill for health care services?

If you received your health care from a Community Health Group Medi-Cal PCP or provider, you should not be billed for any Medi-Cal covered services. Call Community Health Group’s Member Services Department at 1-800-224-7766 or TTY 1-855-266-4584.

What if you need after-hours care?

After-hours care is when you need medical attention after your doctor's office is closed. If you need after-hours care, you can call:

  • CHG’s Telephone Advice Nurse Line. (TAN) 1-800-647-6966
  • Community Health Group 1-800-224-7766 or TTY 1-855-266-4584
  • Go to nearest urgent care center
  •  911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency room if you believe it is an emergency

How do you get mental health services?

Mental health is also called behavioral health. Community Health Group covers mild to moderate behavioral health services. Members can access benefits by calling Community Health Group's Behavioral Health Department at 1-800-404-3332.

Specialty mental health services are provided by San Diego County Health Care Agency Behavioral Health. Chat with them live or give them a call at 1-888-724-7240.

What if your name changed, you moved or have a new phone number?

We need your correct name, address and phone number to contact you about your health care. If any of these change, call the San Diego County Social Services Agency to have the information changed officially.

Once you have contacted San Diego County Social Services Agency, call Community Health Group’s Member Services Department at 1-800-224-7766 or TTY 1-855-266-4584. You can also make updates to your address and phone number through the Member Portal online.