Physicians are reminded that Phase II of the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) Medi-Cal Rx transition began January 20, 2023. In Phase II—which will be implemented in two waves—Medi-Cal Rx prescribers are again required to submit prior authorizations (PAs) for the remaining drug classes.

• Phase II Wave 1 (January 20, 2023):  New start prescriptions in 39 drug classes
• Phase II Wave 2 (February 24, 2023): New start prescriptions in the remaining drug classes.

New start prescriptions for pediatric patients 21 years of age and under continue to be excluded to prevent additional administrative obligations for providers of specialty pediatric services who have been significantly impacted by the transition to Medi-Cal Rx.

For an overview of the remaining phases of the Medi-Cal Rx transition plan, see the DHCS Medi-Cal Rx Reinstatement Spotlight.

For More Information

• 30-Day Countdown – Reinstatement of Prior Authorization Requirements for 39 Drug Classes
• Medi-Cal Rx Reinstatement of Prior Authorizations and Retirement of the Transition Policy: Phases II, III, and IV presentation
• Medi-Cal Rx: Transitioning Medi-Cal Pharmacy Services from Managed Care to Fee-for-Service Frequently Asked Questions

Stay up to date with the latest Medi-Cal Rx news by signing up for the Medi-Cal Rx Subscription Service.

For questions, please contact the Medi-Cal Rx Customer Service Center at (800) 977-2273, available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, or email MediCalRxEducationOutreach@magellanhealth.com.