Children's Health Insurance Frequently Asked Questions
How can I apply for health insurance for my children? There are several options. You may request an application from some medical facilities; or you may obtain the insurance application packet directly from the programs themselves. Call CHOICE at 1-215-985-3301 for more information.
What are the guidelines to qualify for the programs? One standardized application is used to determine your eligibility for all programs. The criteria used to determine your eligibility are: family size, family income, and the age of your child. In some instances, two children from the same family may be covered by two different programs.
Do these programs cover parents, too? Unfortunately, they do not. These programs are only for children.
What are the program options? There are two options: The first is called Medical Assistance. This is a free, public health insurance program paid for by federal and state funding. This program is run by the Department of Public Welfare. The other program is the Children's Health Insurance Program of Pennsylvania (CHIP). This is a state-funded insurance program which provides free and low-cost insurance, depending upon eligibility. This insurance is provided by Aetna US Healthcare, Caring Foundation Blue Cross Blue Shield, and AmeriChoice Kids Choice.
Up to what age are the children covered? The Medical Assistance program is available for children under 21 years of age. The CHIP program is available for children under 19 years of age.
How long does the process take? Within 30 days you should receive a letter of notification of eligibility.
What documentation is required? You will need to provide documentation of household income within the past 30 days and proof of citizenship (if the child is not a US Citizen).
Is there another program, other than Medical Assistance, that my children can qualify for, when children fall under Medical Assistance? The only other option available is private insurance.
Where can my children get medical treatment if they are not covered by health insurance? There are places in the Philadelphia area where parents can take their children for low or no cost at all. CHOICE (1-215-985-3301) will help you find such a place.