Child Health Insurance

By: EconomyWatch Content   Date: 3 March 2010

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Growing up is the time when kids are vulnerable to all vectors and diseases. Getting a child health insurance, thus, makes more sense than any other form of investment that parents might like to make towards securing their kids’ future. Governments world over have taken initiatives to make child health insurance available for minimal or at no cost. The US has been the harbinger of such reforms.

US Initiatives In Child Health insurance

The US government, under the Clinton administration, came up with State’s Children Health Insurance Program (SCHIP), which later changed into Children’s Health Insurance Program(CHIP). CHIP enables families with modest income to be covered by health insurance.

On February 4, 2009, Obama signed the Children's Health Insurance Reauthorization Act of 2009 and expanded the healthcare program to an additional 4 million children and included immigrant children, for the first time in history, without any waiting period.

How To Be Eligible For Child Health Insurance

CHIP follows strict guidelines to ensure that only the most deserving get health coverage. Most rules are based on income and the size of the family. A family of two members should not earn more than $23,200/year to be eligible for the program. On the other hand, a family with five should not earn more than $35,300/year to be eligible. Remember that these conditions vary as per state laws.

If your family income falls within the eligibility criteria, collect your income proof, social security and other identification information and approach the state provider.  To locate your state provider visit: http://www.insurekidsnow.gov/state/index.html.  Alternatively, call 1-877-KIDS to obtain the required information.

Families that earn more than the eligiblity amount need to contact the local insurance companies and seek out the best child health insurance options available. Besides, these children's health insurance plans, they must also consider options such as Aflac and health saving accounts, as these can help with any extra charges that a medical emergency can demand.

As there are many options available for child health insurance, finding the best can be a tricky job. However, a little research and hard work can ensure that your child is covered when the situation demands it.


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