MedicaidAdministrativeMedium impact
26-685m Enhancing Patient Experience Through Timely Access
Health Net·CA·Provider News
We identified it
Jun 27, 2026
Summary
HealthNet California has updated policy 26-685m to establish appointment wait time standards for meeting timely patient access requirements. This policy applies to multiple provider types across 11 California counties in the Medi-Cal program and establishes expectations for scheduling practices to enhance patient experience.
Action Required
Providers and billing teams in affected California counties (Amador, Calaveras, Inyo, Los Angeles, Molina, Mono, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tulare, Tuolumne) should: (1) Review the accompanying PDF flyer at the source URL to identify specific appointment wait time standards; (2) Audit current scheduling practices to ensure compliance with stated wait time thresholds; (3) Update front desk and scheduling staff on new standards; (4) Monitor appointment availability and document compliance efforts. Failure to meet wait time standards may impact plan performance ratings and provider standing with HealthNet.