Many families still struggle to afford health insurance, and for those who do have coverage, out-of-pocket costs can be devastatingly expensive.
The Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is a government-funded program that provides healthcare coverage to 9.6 million youths in the U.S. up to age 19. Since its inception in 1997, CHIP has strived to ensure that youngsters from low-income households can access high-caliber medical services. The continuing efforts of the program have proven instrumental in improving health outcomes for families who do not qualify for Medicaid.
"In 2019, more than half of American Indian/Alaska Native, Black, multi-racial, and Hispanic children relied on Medicaid and CHIP for health care coverage." First Focus On Children
One of the most significant benefits of CHIP is that it provides insurance coverage for a wide range of therapeutic services, including preventative care, immunizations, dental care, vision care, and mental health consultations. Several states also issue extended CHIP benefits to pregnant women. As a result, the program has drastically reduced the number of uninsured children in the U.S. from 14% in 1997 to 5% in 2023.
Improving pathways to healthcare for kids begins by addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality. When families have access to good jobs, affordable housing, and community resources, provisions for medical access improve. Each respective U.S. states have a set of guidelines and benefits for CHIP enrollees. But, a precarious situation emerges because the commonwealths must provide minimum benefits and satisfy federal requirements to receive funding.
"Making CHIP permanent is critical so families, medical providers, and governors can depend on it to always be there." First Focus On Children
Ultimately, everyone has a role in ensuring children access quality healthcare. Whether policymakers, medical providers, advocates, or concerned citizens, our mission begins by guaranteeing that kids have the opportunity to grow up healthy and strong. CHIP is an integral part of that effort, but we must continue supporting and strengthening this vital program to benefit families nationwide.
Air pollution causes depression.
A. Naw, that's a stretch.
B. True, it could.
C. I'm unsure
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