Adequate health care for children is essential.  When a child has a Health Care Plan, they are able to receive preventive care, necessary immunizations, and proper treatment when they are sick. Research shows that children with access to regular medical care are more likely to stay healthy throughout their childhood, less likely to miss school, and perform better in school.

If you need Health Insurance for your child, it is usually best to include them under an Individual/Family health care plan designed to take care of all your family members Click Here to go directly to a discussion of Individual/Family plans. However, if a plan covering your entire family is out of your current financial reach, you may be able to enroll your children, under age19, in a State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). Income restrictions apply, but they are typically much higher than the income limits set for state Medicaid programs.

SCHIP is a Federal law that was passed as part of Tile XXI of the Social Security Act in 1997. It is a program that is jointly financed by Federal and State governments and administered by the States. Within the Federal guidelines, each State determines the design of its program, eligibility groups, benefit packages, payment levels for coverage, and administrative and operating procedures enabling states to provide health insurance to children in low-income to moderate income families that would not otherwise be able to afford or have access to health insurance. While the SCHIP programs and qualification requirements vary from state to state they are co-sponsored by both the federal and state government. Depending on the state of your residency, the SCHIP is either free or very inexpensive.

In certain states, you may need to pay a Premium or co-payment for your child's health insurance. Different states have varying eligibility requirements. In most states, uninsured children of ages 18 and younger are eligible for the insurance subject to certain minimum and maximum income limits. The insurance coverage is renewable for as long as your child meets the eligibility criteria established by your state. The SCHIP covers doctor visits, immunizations, prescription medicines, hospitalizations, and others. Most states also cover the cost of dental care, eye care, and medical equipment.

Most states have made the process of applying for SCHIP extremely easy. The application is usually short and straight-forward. Most states understand that it is difficult for parents in working families to get time off from work to fill out the application, so they have made it possible to either complete the application via mail or simple by answering questions over the phone. You do not need to disclose information about your immigration status or your Social Security number when applying for child health insurance. However, you will need to provide proof of your family's income and family expenses such as costs for childcare. You can call 1-877 KIDS NOW if your have additional concerns, need help with the application process, or would like to be directed to the Children's Health Insurance Program in your state.

Your local licensed Broker/Agent should be able to advise you of these plans and let you know if your children may qualify Licensed Certified Field Broker/Agent ( Click Here).

The saving realized by a family insuring eligible children under a SCHIP often allows the adults to afford adequate coverage for themselves as well.

See a Directory of State SCHIP Agencies