Oakland Health Watch: Highland Layoff Rally, Medi-Cal Rules, and EBT Scam Alerts

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Oakland, CA – February 19, 2026 – Layoff protests at Highland, plus new Medi-Cal eligibility limits and EBT scam alerts shape the week for residents.

1) Safety-net care and staffing

Oakland health access is in the spotlight after a labor rally outside Wilma Chan Highland Hospital, the flagship campus of Alameda Health System. Union members and supporters warned that planned layoffs could reduce services that many residents rely on, including outpatient behavioral health and patient support programs. For patients, the concern is simple: fewer staff can mean longer waits, fewer appointments and more strain on emergency care.

2) Medi-Cal eligibility and renewal changes

Alameda County Social Services Agency posted new guidance about Medi-Cal enrollment rules that began January 1, 2026. The update says some adults who do not have what the state defines as satisfactory immigration status may be limited to restricted-scope Medi-Cal if they apply on or after January 1. The same Medi-Cal page also highlights that an asset test is being reinstated for certain Non-MAGI Medi-Cal programs, with verification expected at application for new members and at renewal for current members.

If you or a family member is on Medi-Cal, it is a good week to double-check (1) whether you are due for renewal, and (2) whether you might be asked for documents about income, household size or assets. Keeping mail open and responding quickly can help prevent gaps in coverage.

3) Food support and EBT fraud warnings

Food security is health security. County social services updates this week also emphasized online options for CalFresh and reminded residents that some households may qualify for expedited benefits in emergency situations. Separately, the agency posted an EBT scam alert warning people not to share card numbers, PINs or personal information in response to suspicious texts, emails or calls. Protecting benefits matters because an unexpected loss of food dollars can quickly worsen chronic conditions, pregnancy nutrition and child health.

What Oakland residents can do now

  • If your care is through Highland or another Alameda Health System site, call ahead for appointments and ask about alternatives if a program is changing.
  • If you are applying for, renewing or helping someone with Medi-Cal, gather key documents early and respond to renewal notices promptly.
  • If you use EBT, change your PIN if you suspect fraud and contact the county right away if benefits disappear.

Sources

https://www.seiu1021.org/article/hundreds-rally-against-alameda-health-system-layoffs
https://socialservices.alamedacountyca.gov/our-services/Health-and-Food/Medi-Cal/index
https://socialservices.alamedacountyca.gov/our-services/Health-and-Food/CalFresh/index
https://socialservices.alamedacountyca.gov/index.page

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