Children's Health Insurance Program (Montana)
More State Children's Health Insurance Programs
Montana Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
Montana CHIP, the state-sponsored program, provides health coverage to uninsured Montana children under the age of 19 whose family income meets the income guidelines.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible, the child must be a resident of Montana and a U.S. citizen or a qualified alien. Parents cannot be employed by the State of Montana or working for the Montana University system. Household income must meet the income guidelines for household size and recognized income. An eligible child must not be eligible for Medicaid.
Waiting Periods
Children are placed on a waiting list when enrollment exceeds the maximum spaces available. Children on the waiting list will be covered on a first-come, first-served basis as openings occur. Currently there is no waiting time. There is a one month waiting period if the child has been covered under a health plan prior to applying for coverage.
Covered Services and Benefits
Montana CHIP offers comprehensive coverage that includes:
- Office and clinic visits
- Emergency Services
- Prescription Drugs
- Hospital Services
- Lab and x-ray services
- Dental services
- Vision exams and eyeglasses
- Hearing exams/hearing aids
- Substance abuse services
- Mental health services
- Anesthesia services
- Surgical services
- Sports or employment physicals
- Well-child checkups
Health Plan Options
Montana's Department of Public Health and Human Services provides health coverage to children enrolled in CHIP. The Department contracts with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Montana for administrative services, including claim processing and access to BC/BS's provider network. CHIP enrollees receive a CHIP identification card, a member handbook describing how to use the insurance, and lists of doctors, dentists and other health care providers.
Premium Payments, Co-Payments and Coinsurance
Some families will be required to make small co-payments for some covered services depending on income. No co-payment for well-baby or well-child care, including age-appropriate immunizations, dental services and eyeglasses. Maximum total co-payments for a year are $215 per covered child, after which there are no further co-payments for the remainder of the year.
Program Length, Enrollment and Renewal
Families need to reapply every 12 months. Packets for reapplying will be sent out 30 days before renewal.
Montana CHIP Contact Information
Montana CHIP
P.O. Box 202951
Helena, MT 59620-2951
877-543-7669
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