State Children's Heatlh Insurance Program (SCHIP)
Program (SCHIP)
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The U.S. Congress approved legislation in 1997 that allows states to build upon their Medicaid programs in an effort to provide comprehensive state health insurance to even more children. With an increasing number of uninsured persons throughout the country, it is more important than ever to provide options for coverage that would not be feasible to families in low-income brackets. Even private health insurance for children can be unaffordable to families on a fixed income. A state Children's Health Insurance Program provides coverage to children that fall into this segment of the population.
The laws that govern Children's Health Insurance Programs, as well as the plan options and benefits, will vary from one state to another. The category descriptions listed below may not apply to all states. They are provided as more of a general overview of CHIP plans. To learn more about the eligibility, benefits, plan options and premiums in your state, click on the state name above and then check the "Additional Resources" box for a link to your state's program.
Eligibility
The Children's Health Insurance Program is most commonly available to residents under the age of 19. Some states also allow pregnant women who meet certain income requirements to participate in the state health care program. Eligibility is primarily based on the family size and income, but some states open the program to all families, regardless of income. Families that meet the federal poverty level guidelines to qualify for Medicaid are usually not eligible for their state's CHIP because of the assistance they receive through Medicaid. Each state has special guidelines for children that are resident immigrants, regardless of the immigration status of the family.
Waiting Periods
Some states require that a specific length of time has lapsed since a child was last covered under an employer sponsored group health plan. This can range from 30 days up to 1 year depending on the state regulations. Children that are subject to this waiting period may want to consider short-term health insurance or individual health insurance options.
Premium Payment and Co-Payments
In most states, the monthly premium you must pay to enroll a child in the Children's Health Insurance Program will be based on the family income and family size. The higher the family income, the greater the monthly premium you will be required to pay. Some premiums can be excessive and other options for medical insurance may be more sensible. The family income level may also determine the co-payments that are required for certain covered services. However, even for higher income families, the co-payments are usually quite reasonable.
Program Length and Renewal
A child may remain on CHIP through the age of 19 in most states. An annual review is conducted in most states to determine if eligibility requirements are still met. Any child whose family falls outside of the income guidelines may not be qualified to renew coverage after the annual review.
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