Question: I am not working and have no other income. I need to keep my hematologist. Can I receive Covered California and choose a plan which I would pay out of pocket or do I have to take MediCal since I believe I fall into the poverty level.

Answer: If you have no income, you have two options for health insurance coverage. (1) you qualify for Medi-Cal coverage which has $0 cost for both the insurance and out-of-pocket expenses, but your current doctors may not accept Medi-Cal. Ask you doctor if he will continue treating you if you switch to Medi-Cal. (2) You can purchase individual coverage directly from any California licensed insurance company that your doctor accepts, but not Covered California. You will face significant expense both in monthly insurance premiums and out-of-pocket medical expenses that will probably be unaffordable. I recommend going with Medi-Cal even if you have to change doctors.