The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is a health insurance plan provided by Pennsylvania for uninsured children and adolescents.
According to the Pennsylvania government website (www.pa.gov), there are many reasons why children or adolescents may not have access to healthcare – perhaps their parents are unemployed, do not have company health insurance, or can only afford high-cost insurance options. Regardless of the reason, if your child is uninsured and not eligible for Medicaid, CHIP may be able to help. Having high-quality, low-cost health insurance can give you peace of mind and help your child thrive.
CHIP is offered by leading health insurance companies. You can choose a major insurance company near you that has a network of doctors, specialists, and healthcare facilities. Your child can even continue to see their current doctor.
CHIP provides quality, comprehensive health insurance for your child, covering routine check-ups, prescriptions, dental care, eye care, and more, including immunizations, hearing services, emergency care, mental health services, inpatient treatment, durable medical equipment, substance abuse treatment, partial hospitalization for mental health services, rehabilitation, home health care, maternity care, end-of-life care and palliative care services, medically necessary orthodontia, autism spectrum disorder and related services.
Children with health insurance typically have better health outcomes throughout childhood and adolescence. They are more likely to receive necessary vaccinations, treatment for recurring conditions like ear infections and asthma, access preventive care to stay healthy, get sick less often, receive needed treatment when they are ill, maintain better attendance and academic performance in school.
Several health insurance companies offer CHIP, so you can choose the company that best suits your family’s needs.
Many children may qualify for CHIP for free, while others can access the same benefits at a lower cost. Eligibility criteria include: under 19 years old, U.S. citizens or eligible immigrants, Pennsylvania residents, uninsured, and not qualifying for Medicaid.
Some parents may think they earn too much to qualify for CHIP for their children, but this is not true. Any child or adolescent under 19 years old who is uninsured and not eligible for Medicaid can apply for CHIP.
For most families, CHIP is free. Families with incomes above the free CHIP threshold will pay lower monthly premiums and copayments for certain services. The amount you need to pay depends on your family size and total income. For example, a family of four with an annual income of $48,984-$64,896 may qualify for free CHIP for children under 19 years old. (Income inquiries can be made online:
https://www.pa.gov/en/agencies/dhs/resources/chip/eligibility-and-benefits.html)
If your income is below the minimum CHIP amount listed, your child will be referred to Medicaid.
Applying for CHIP is simple. You can apply online at www.compass.dhs.pa.gov, call 1-800-986-KIDS (5437), or mail in your CHIP application. You will need the following information ready:
CHIP is real insurance from top-quality insurance companies that have been providing health insurance products for decades. You can expect quality service and comprehensive benefits.
COMPASS is Pennsylvania’s welfare management website where you can apply, renew, or check your welfare status. You can visit www.compass.dhs.pa.gov to see if you are eligible for CHIP and other services in Pennsylvania.
You can visit your local county assistance office and fill out a healthcare application form.