Medi-Cal Provides Comprehensive Maternal Care in Alameda and San Francisco

From prenatal to postpartum, Medi-Cal expands services to support healthy pregnancies and babies

Feb. 3, 2026 at 5:23pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Medi-Cal is working to address disparities in maternal health outcomes in Alameda and San Francisco counties by expanding and coordinating comprehensive maternal health services for eligible pregnant and postpartum people. These services include the Birthing Care Pathway, doula support, the Postpartum Pathway, and access to mental health, dental, and vision care.

Why it matters

Black families in Alameda and San Francisco counties face long-standing disparities in maternal health outcomes. Medi-Cal's initiatives aim to provide respectful, comprehensive, and easier-to-navigate care to protect both parent and baby during and after pregnancy.

The details

The Birthing Care Pathway outlines key prenatal steps including screenings, behavioral health check-ins, and labor preparation. Medi-Cal also covers doula services and the Postpartum Pathway, which promotes a comprehensive visit within 12 weeks, ongoing primary care, and referrals to community-based services. Eligible members also receive mental health, dental, and vision benefits.

  • Medi-Cal coverage continues for 12 months after the pregnancy ends.
  • The comprehensive postpartum visit should occur within 12 weeks after birth.

The players

Medi-Cal

California's Medicaid program that provides health coverage to eligible low-income adults, families and children, seniors, and persons with disabilities.

CalAIM

A statewide initiative that strengthens Medi-Cal by improving care coordination and addressing health-related social needs.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

Medi-Cal's expanded maternal health services aim to provide equitable, comprehensive care for pregnant and postpartum people in Alameda and San Francisco counties, especially for Black families who face disproportionate health risks.