MedicaidCoverageMedium impact
22-923m How to Use the Sobering Center Benefit for Medi-Cal Members
Health Net·CA · Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine, Internal Medicine +1 more·Provider News
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
A new Sobering Center Benefit is now available for Medi-Cal members in 9 California counties to help reduce emergency department burden. This creates an alternative care setting for certain patients who might otherwise use emergency services.
Action Required
Immediately: Download and review the provider update PDF from the policy URL. Billing and clinical staff should understand this new benefit option for Medi-Cal members who may benefit from sobering center services instead of emergency department visits. Verify if your practice area serves the affected counties (Kern, Los Angeles, Riverside, Sacramento, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tulare) and update referral protocols accordingly.