Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provide no-cost or low-cost health coverage for eligible children in Pennsylvania. These programs provide health coverage for children so they can get routine check-ups, immunizations and dental care, to keep them healthy. Residents of the Reading / Berks County area need to know if they are eligible.
Along those lines, a change in residence, such as a move to a nursing home, can negatively affect a senior’s assets. Attorney Scott C. Painter, P.C., can help you address and navigate any pitfalls.
Following are answers to common questions that families that are applying for free or low-cost health insurance for their children and teens through Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) have.
Is my child eligible for Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)? States have different income eligibility rules, but in most states, children up to age 19 with family income up to $50,000 per year (for a family of four) may qualify for Medicaid or the CHIP. In many states, family income can be even higher and children can still qualify. Young people up to 21 may be eligible for Medicaid. Youth who have “aged out” of foster care can be covered under Medicaid until they reach 26; there is no income limit for these youth.
Medicaid and CHIP coverage is for U.S. citizens and certain lawfully-present immigrants. To find information about the Medicaid and CHIP programs in your state, go to Learn About Programs in Your State or call 1-877-KIDS-NOW (1-877-543-7669). When you call the free and confidential hotline, you’ll be connected to someone in your state who can help you learn whether your children may qualify and help you enroll them.
Who can apply for Medicaid and CHIP for a child? A parent, grandparent, guardian, or other authorized representative, can apply on behalf of a child. If you’re a teenager living on your own, your state may allow you to apply for Medicaid on your own behalf or any adult may apply for you.
What do Medicaid and CHIP cover? All states provide comprehensive coverage for children (Some specific benefits may be different from state to state.), including:
- routine check-ups.
- immunizations.
- doctor visits.
- prescriptions.
- dental and vision care.
- inpatient and outpatient hospital care.
- laboratory and X-ray services.
- emergency services.
- mental health services.
The law office of elder law attorney Scott C. Painter, P.C., is located in Wyomissing (outside of Reading, PA, in Berks County,) and offers trusted legal services in the areas of elder law, including nursing home planning, trust and estate services, and veterans benefits. Scott C. Painter is a Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA®), and he is also a member of the National Association of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA).
If you have an issue or question, we encourage you to call us. With legal matters, time is of the essence. Call us for a consultation at 610-378-5140. The $300 consultation fee is waived if Attorney Painter is retained to perform services.