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Getting Your Kid Covered and in the Game
By Cindy Mann, Deputy Administrator and Director of the Center for Medicaid, CHIP, and Survey & Certification at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
Here is my confession: when the World Cup was televised last month, I didn’t view a single game. When people talk about “March Madness,” I think they’re talking about the quirkiness of the weather. I love riding my bike – but not watching the Tour de France.
| Even though I’m not much of a sports fan, I knew how important it was to go and cheer on my daughters when they played field hockey in high school. Physical activity is so important for good health – and organized sports are the best way to get most kids moving. When it comes to participating in school and community sports, nothing should stand in a child’s way – especially the lack of affordable health insurance. |
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But without health insurance, it’s hard for kids to get the physical exams they need to be able to play. For other families, the fear of medical bills that could result from a sports injury leave them reluctant to let their children participate.
The good news for many families and budding athletes is that while we are taking careful steps to implement the Affordable Care Act and make health coverage available to all Americans, many children do not have to wait. Eligible children can get health coverage now through Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program.
You may know your state’s health insurance program for kids by another name, such as Healthy Families, KidCare, or Child Health Plus, but they all provide the health benefits every child needs. The plans may be free or available at a very modest cost. Generally, children up to age 19 in families of four with income up to $45,000 a year can qualify. In many states the income limit is higher, so more children in working families are eligible. Even if your child has not been able to get coverage in the past, it’s worth trying again. Usually you can mail in an application and in many states you can apply on line.
It’s easy to find out more about the children’s health coverage options in your state and learn about how to enroll your child. We also have flyers and other materials on our website, InsureKidsNow, designed just for coaches, school nurses and anyone else who works with kids and can play a role in helping families with eligible kids find coverage.
As back-to-school time approaches, families are thinking about making sure their children have every opportunity to learn. Now is also the time to make sure that kids have the coverage they need to be healthy – the first step to a successful school year.
Health coverage also will help your kids get in the game, whether their passion is soccer or basketball -- or jumping rope on the playground. They’ll get exercise and have fun – and you’ll know they’re protected on and off the field for long after the sports season is over. Sign them up and let the games begin!
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