Insurance FAQs

Health insurance is confusing for most adults, let alone when you're figuring it out as a teen. Here are honest answers to the questions we hear most often. The short version: you can get care here whether or not you have insurance — and for confidential services, nobody back home has to know.

What if I don't have insurance?

That's totally okay. If you don't have insurance, we'll sign you up for a government program — Medi-Cal or Family PACT — that covers most or all of the cost of your care. For reproductive health services, Family PACT enrollment can happen right at your first appointment, and it's confidential: no mail goes to your house, and no explanation of benefits lands on a parent's statement.

If I have private insurance, can I still come to the Health Center?

Yes — for confidential services like reproductive health care, STI testing, or substance use counseling. For general primary care (check-ups, sick visits, vaccinations), you'll need to use your regular doctor through your private plan. The reason is simple: billing your private insurance for general care generates paperwork that goes to the policyholder — usually a parent — and we won't risk your privacy that way.

What if I have Kaiser?

You can use the Daly City Youth Health Center for confidential services, full stop. Kaiser also runs its own confidential reproductive health clinic for teens, so you have two private options — pick whichever is easier to get to.

What if I already have government insurance?

If you have Medi-Cal, Health Plan of San Mateo, or a similar program, your services here are covered by that insurance — including general health care. Bring your card or your coverage information if you have it, but don't skip the appointment if you can't find it; we can usually look you up.

How does signing up actually work?

For Family PACT, you'll fill out a short form at your appointment and you're covered right away — same day. For Medi-Cal, a specialist at the clinic will help you complete the application; sign-up help is available Monday through Friday in the afternoon. Eligibility for these programs is based on income and family size, and does not depend on immigration status.

Will my parents find out?

Not from us. Confidential services stay confidential — that's the whole point, and it's backed by California law. If privacy is your main worry, tell the front desk when you call: they can note how (and whether) to contact you, and help you choose the option that keeps your visit fully private.