Children's Health Insurance Program (Kentucky)
More State Children's Health Insurance Programs
Kentucky Children's Health Insurance Program (KCHIP)
KCHIP, the state-sponsored health insurance program for children, offers health care coverage to low-income uninsured children under the age of 19 that do not qualify for Medicaid.
Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility for KCHIP is based on the age of your children and the family income. To be eligible for the program, family income requirements are based on 200% of the federal poverty level. KCHIP is only available to children that do not currently have health insurance. Children must be a resident of Kentucky and a U.S. citizen.
Waiting Periods
Some children, depending on their circumstances, may have up to a six month waiting period if they have recently been insured. This waiting period suggests that a child must be uninsured for six months before they become eligible for enrollment on KCHIP. The waiting period may be waived if the health insurance plan they had was terminated involuntarily, such as through loss of job.
Covered Services and Benefits
KCHIP provides benefits for the following:
- Doctor visits
- Dental care
- Hospitalization
- Outpatient hospital services
- Psychiatrists
- Laboratory tests and X-rays
- Vision exams
- Hearing services
- Mental health services
- Prescription medicines
- Glasses
- Immunizations
- Well-child checkups
- Physical therapy
- Speech therapy
Health Plan Options
KCHIP offers one plan type that offers the same coverage to all children enrolled in the program. This is an HMO plan that requires the selection of a primary care physician that participates in the program.
Premium Payments, Co-Payments and Coinsurance
There may be a small monthly premium of $20 for families in the higher qualifying income levels, above 150% of the federal poverty level. Co-payments will be required for some covered services such as prescription drugs, allergy testing and some emergency room visits. A discount on your premium is offered if you pay for three or six months of coverage in advance. Total costs of premiums and co-payments are limited to more than $450 a year.
Program Length, Enrollment and Renewal
The KCHIP renewal period is annual. Every 12 months you will need to complete a new application, which will be mailed to your prior to the renewal date.
KCHIP Contact Information
KCHIP
Cabinet for Health and Family Services
275 East Main Street
Frankfort, KY 40621
800-524-4718
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