(AscendHealthy.com) – The government understands that many people are in a difficult situation. People can go through many different issues, and researching assistance opportunities can be frustrating, creating barriers to support for those who need it. However, one common program that people can apply for is CHIP.
There is no doubt that health care in America is expensive and drives many families away from seeking medical care, as they cannot afford it. CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program) is a federal program that provides coverage to beneficiaries under the age of 19. Pregnant women are also entitled to CHIP insurance.
General Qualifications
Most states follow similar guidelines for CHIP qualifications. Because states also contribute to CHIP funds, they have some flexibility when it comes to setting rules for each state. However, the following are common guidelines.
- Be under 19.
- Be a US citizen or a qualified immigrant
- Be uninsured
- Qualify for state limits and revenue, special conditions, and other state requirements
- Some children are not automatically eligible for CHIP.
- Persons detained in public institutions, including psychiatric institutions, may qualify
- The ability to receive coverage through a government benefit plan,
Some states may also cover prenatal and maternity care. Check with your state to find out what benefits are available to pregnant women. Children of CHIP-insured mothers automatically receive guaranteed benefits until they turn one.
Healthcare does not equal free care. There is also the possibility of co-payments (you pay part, and Chip pays the rest) for some services. Some states charge a monthly premium for CHIP, but the annual premium is no more than 5% of income.
Types of Benefit Programs
States can organize their CHIP benefits in three ways: Medicaid expansion, a separate CHIP program, or a combination of both.
Separate CHIP Benefits
If your state does not participate in the Medicaid expansion, it provides similar coverage, either as a screening test or other Health and Human Services-approved services.
Medicaid Expansion
If your state participates in Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), CHIP benefits in your state are the same as Medicaid. This program includes Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment (EPSDT) services that ensure children in the program receive early diagnosis and treatment to prevent future health problems. This includes regular check-ups, eye care, and visits to the dentist.
Mental Health Care
SNAP is part of the federal Anti-Discrimination Prevention Program, which includes mental health services, substance abuse treatment, and behavioral therapy. To pay for and use the service, the service is treated as a trip to the doctor. There are no restrictions on the following.
- Co-payment, co-insurance, and out-of-pocket maximums
- Service usage restrictions, such as restrictions on the number of inpatient days or outpatient visits
- Use non-standard maintenance parameters
Benchmark
Benchmark coverage means individual insurance offered by CHIP is equivalent to government or private insurance plans. Blue Cross Blue Shield provides health insurance to federal employees, and the testing program is “equivalent” to the BCBS program.
Dental care follows the same methods; CHIP beneficiaries receive coverage through federal, state, or private plans.
Benchmark services should include the following tasks, regardless of the type of program involved.
- Physicals and doctor visits
- treatment and prevention
- hospital and sedation
- Dental and eye care
- Emergency, radiology, and laboratory services
How to Apply for CHIP
You can apply for CHIP at any time. Here’s how:
Register for the healthcare portal at Healthcare.gov (via the .gov website; there is no application fee) and complete the application. If someone in your family qualifies for CHIP, they will send your information to your state and contact you to enroll.
Unfortunately, it is easy to think your situation is hopeless when facing difficult times. However, that may not be the case. Finding out what support is available for your particular situation is essential. CHIP can help provide support to mothers and caregivers of young children. Remember that requirements can vary by state, so you won’t know for sure if you may qualify for help until you apply!
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