Children’s health care needs are much different than those of adults. They experience complex and continuing changes from birth to adulthood. Studies have shown many costly adult disorders have their origins in childhood. For these reasons, access to appropriate healthcare services is essential for all children. The 1997 Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is a program that provides matching funds to states for health insurance for low-income families with children. CHIP was designed to cover uninsured children in families with incomes that are modest but too high to qualify for Medicaid. Depending on income, some families get free health coverage for their children and teens, while other families are charged a modest enrollment fee, premium, or copayment for services. However, for some families, these costs still pose a financial hardship. Medicaid and CHIP cover doctor’s visits, hospitalizations, visits to community health centers and prescription drugs. They also provide a variety of services such as long-term services for those with disabilities as well as support for those with developmental conditions such as autism.

Proposed Legislation: H.R.6098 - To amend title XXI of the Social Security Act to allow States to expand income eligibility standards under the Children's Health Insurance Program, and for other purposes (116th Congress)
Prospective Sponsor: Rep. Nanette Diaz Barragan (CA)