As the back-to-school season approaches, families are reminded of the importance of ensuring their children have health coverage. The Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and Medicaid provide free or low-cost health insurance for eligible children and teens up to age 19, helping them stay healthy and succeed in school.
Many families may qualify for coverage without realizing it. Eligibility varies by state and is based on family income and household size. In most states, children up to age 19 from a family of four earning up to $80,000 per year may be eligible, and in some states, eligible children can qualify even if family income is higher.
Health coverage through Medicaid and CHIP includes a range of services to support children's health all year long. These include annual checkups and school physicals, preventive care, dental care, vision and hearing services, mental health care, prescription medications, and specialized services for children with disabilities. Such services help children stay healthy, manage chronic conditions, and address issues that could affect learning, such as vision problems or difficulty focusing.
Having health coverage can help families send their kids off to school ready to learn. Healthy kids are confident kids who are prepared to participate in every opportunity inside and outside the classroom. For example, if a child is sick, the right medicines help them get back to school quickly. If a child has trouble seeing, the programs cover glasses, supporting their academic success.
Applying for Medicaid and CHIP is straightforward. Families can apply by phone, by mail, in person at their state's Medicaid or CHIP office, or online at InsureKidsNow.gov/coverage. Enrollment is open year-round, so families do not have to wait for a specific period to get coverage. Once enrolled, coverage must be renewed every twelve months, making it important to keep contact information up to date with the state office to avoid missing renewal notices.
For more information, families can visit InsureKidsNow.gov or call 1-877-KIDS-NOW (1-877-543-7669). This information is provided by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and was produced at U.S. taxpayer expense.
