 OVERVIEW
The Pennsylvania CHIP provides insurance coverage for children birth to age 19 years who are not eligible for Medicaid and have access to no other health insurance coverage. Funding for CHIP is through Federal and State funds. In 2007, CHIP expanded to offer coverage to all children. Depending on the family income – children are eligible for free coverage or coverage based on a sliding scale payment. In 2008, approximately 168,000 children are enrolled in CHIP.
PA AAP EFFORTS FOR YOU AND YOUR PATIENTS
The PA Chapter has long been a supporter of PA CHIP. From the early 1990’s when CHIP legislation was first passed in PA under Governor Bob Casey through the recent CHIP expansion to “Cover All Kids” under Governor Ed Rendell, the PA AAP has been actively involved. A primary goal of the PA AAP is for every Pennsylvania child to have access to health insurance coverage. PA AAP was also instrumental in exempting children under 2 years of age from a 6 month waiting period before CHIP benefits are activated. All new applicants who are found eligible for low cost or full cost CHIP (but not free CHIP) must show that their child has been uninsured for six months unless: the child is under age two; the child has lost health benefits because a parent lost their job; or the child is moving from another public health insurance program.
INVOLVED PEDIATRICIANS
David Wyszomierski, MD (Pittsburgh) – PA AAP representative to the Children’s Health Insurance Program Advisory Council
RESOURCES
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