How to apply for Community-Based Adult Services (CBAS) in California

Who it's for

CBAS is a Medi-Cal benefit that pays for adult day health centers — outpatient day programs that combine nursing, social work, therapy (physical, occupational, speech), personal care, meals, and transportation in a single facility, typically for two to five days per week. CBAS is designed for adults with chronic medical, cognitive, or mental health conditions who would otherwise be at risk of nursing facility placement. The program lets seniors stay at home overnight while receiving daily medical and social support, and provides essential respite for family caregivers. CBAS is delivered through Medi-Cal managed care plans (or fee-for-service for some populations) at over 200 licensed centers across California.

What you'll need

• Medi-Cal card or Medi-Cal application confirmation
• Recent medical records or physician statement documenting chronic medical, cognitive, or mental health conditions
• Documentation of need for assistance with activities of daily living
• Identification of preferred CBAS center, if known (referral typically goes through the Medi-Cal managed care plan)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Community-Based Adult Services (CBAS). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need medi-Cal card or Medi-Cal application confirmation, recent medical records or physician statement documenting chronic medical, cognitive, or mental health conditions, documentation of need for assistance with activities of daily living — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Confirm that you are enrolled in Medi-Cal or have a Medi-Cal application in progress, since CBAS is a Medi-Cal benefit.
2. Gather your required documents: your Medi-Cal card or Medi-Cal application confirmation, recent medical records or a physician statement showing a chronic medical, cognitive, or mental health condition, and documentation of your need for help with daily activities.
3. If you already have a preferred CBAS adult day health center in mind, note that information — it may be helpful when your referral is processed.
4. Apply online or call the California Department of Health Care Services at 1-800-541-5555 to start your CBAS application.
5. Contact your Medi-Cal managed care plan after applying, as the referral to a licensed CBAS center is typically coordinated through your plan.
6. Complete any medical eligibility assessment that the agency or your managed care plan schedules — this step confirms you qualify for CBAS services.

What to expect: After submitting your application, your Medi-Cal managed care plan (or the fee-for-service program, if that applies to you) will review your medical eligibility and coordinate a referral to a licensed CBAS center near you. Processing times vary, so ask your managed care plan or call 1-800-541-5555 for an estimate. If approved, you will receive adult day health services — such as nursing care, therapy, meals, and transportation — typically two to five days per week at your assigned center. CBAS eligibility must be renewed every year through a re-assessment of your medical needs, so watch for renewal notices and respond promptly to avoid any gap in services.

Renewals

annual (re-assessment of medical eligibility)

Related reading

• In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) in the Inland Empire: Who Qualifies and How to Apply · 4 min read