Medicaid Programs
Healthy Start, Healthy Families / Children's Health Insurance Programs: Over the past few years, the federal government made a rule that there should be no children without some type of insurance coverage. The purpose was to make sure all children grow up as healthy as possible. Most states decided to expand their existing Medicaid programs in order to meet this rule. The names of the program may vary from state to state. Some require small monthly fees to obtain Medicaid (medical card). However, they have the same general goal of giving basic health care, such as regular check-ups, shots, eye exams, glasses, dental care, etc. for babies, toddlers, children and teens. In Ohio, for example, coverage is provided for children and parents up to 19 years of age. Generally, rheumatology physician services, outpatient services, medications, laboratory tests, x-rays and some home health services are covered.
In addition to Medicaid, a family can have primary or commercial insurance, as well as employment income. However, the income must fall within certain income guidelines. Some families may also qualify for a state medical program for children with handicaps, such as BCMH and Kentucky Commission for Children with Special Healthcare Needs.
If interested in more information about Healthy Start, Healthy Families / CHIP in your area, contact your local county department of Jobs and Family Services. You could also talk with a Cincinnati Children's patient financial counselor or talk with one of the rheumatology social workers.
For more information about the William S. Rowe Division of Rheumatology at Cincinnati Children's, please contact 513-636-4676.
