County Medically Indigent Services Program (CMISP)

The County Medically Indigent Services Program (CMISP) is a health care program for adults with very low income who cannot get other health coverage. It is the last option for people who are not eligible for other health care programs. Services include medically necessary primary care, pharmacy, specialty, emergency, hospital, and ancillary services. Some services require authorization.

Eligibility for the program is determined by the Department of Human Assistance (also known as the County Eligibility Office) and primary care and pharmacy services are provided at the Sacramento County Health Center.

 

Eligibility

  • 19 - 64 years of age
  • Very low income (138% of the Federal Poverty Level). If your income is higher than this, you may still qualify for an exception through additional review.
  • Does not have other health insurance coverage
  • Sacramento County resident
  • U.S. citizenship or meets federal immigration status requirements
  • Referral from hospital or County clinic based on medical need, with medical eligibility reviewed and confirmed by DHS.

The County Health Center does not handle medical emergencies. Call 911 if you have a medical emergency.

 

Provider Billing

CMISP claims must be submitted to the dhsfiscal-cmisp@saccounty.gov inbox. Eligibility requires that the individual be enrolled in the CMISP program. Payments will be processed only for services approved under CMISP guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions

CMISP may be able to pay for medical services if you are not eligible for any other health care coverage and are a legal Sacramento County resident. If you have received care for a health condition that CMISP might cover (see What Services Does CMISP Cover?), follow the steps below:

Step 1: Make sure you meet basic requirements

  • You must live in Sacramento County.
    You must have a medical problem that requires prompt or ongoing care.

Step 2: Send in your required forms

  • There is no separate CMISP application, CMISP utilizes the Medi-Cal application process.
  • The hospital or medical facility that provided your care must e‑fax the CMISP Referral and Medi‑Cal application to (916) 854‑9272.
  • Make sure they are sent within 30 days of your treatment or hospital discharge.
  • Turn in any documents the County requests to complete your review.

Step 3: If you need care while your application is processed

  • You can receive services at the Sacramento County Health Center through the Sliding Fee Discount Program. Call (916) 874-1805 or visit our office located at 4600 Broadway, Suite 2600, Sacramento, CA for more information.
  • For emergencies, always call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

Step 4: Wait for your eligibility review

  • DHA (County Eligibility Office) will review you for Medi‑Cal first, then Covered California, and finally CMISP.
  • If you appear eligible for CMISP, DHA will provide your next steps.

Step 5: How you will know if you are approved

  • If you are approved for CMISP, you will receive a written notice from the County.
  • This notice will explain your eligibility, the dates you are approved for, and any steps you need to take next.
  • If additional information is needed before a decision can be made, the County will contact you.

  • No separate CMISP application
  • Eligibility is determined through the Medi-Cal application process
  • Refer patients by e-faxing the CMISP referral Form 1015 with a completed Medi-Cal application to (916) 854‑9272
  • The referral allows County staff to follow up on eligibility and care needs

CMISP helps with medical problems that need prompt or ongoing care. CMISP covers medically necessary care to treat health issues, stabilize health, and prevent hospitalizations.

Examples include:

  • Primary and specialty care
  • Diagnosis and treatment
  • Outpatient surgery
  • Emergency and hospital care
  • Care for long‑term conditions
  • Prescriptions
  • Limited medical equipment and dental services

These are examples only; if you are approved for CMISP, a County healthcare provider will determine what services CMISP can cover for your condition.

  • Sliding Fee Discount Program: Lower‑cost care at Sacramento County Health Center based on income and household size. Call (916) 874‑1805 or visit our office located at 4600 Broadway, Suite 2600, Sacramento, CA for more information.
  • Covered California: May offer financial help for health insurance. Visit www.CoveredCA.com.
  • Community Clinics (also known as Federally Qualified Health Centers or FQHCs): Many offer their own discount programs—ask the clinics directly.

Sacramento County Health Center

Medical Center

4600 Broadway
Sacramento, CA 95820

Office Hours
Day of the Week Hours
Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm