Are you looking for quality affordable health insurance coverage for your children in Maryland? Are you pregnant and in need of health insurance during this important time? Many families find themselves struggling to afford health insurance coverage for their children in these difficult economic times. The Maryland Children’s Health Program (MCHP), Maryland’s implementation of the federal State Children’s Health Insurance Program (known as SCHIP) provides health insurance coverage for children and pregnant women in Maryland who meet income and other eligibility requirements. MCHP covers all medical needs, including regular doctor visits, hospital visits, dental and vision, laboratory tests, and immunizations, among others. It also covers maternity care and delivery for pregnant women, among others. There are some important points to understand and consider if you are seeking low-cost quality health insurance coverage through the Maryland Children’s Health Program for your children:
Eligibility
There are two groups of people eligible for MCHP, children under 19 and pregnant women. For children to qualify, their household income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level ($44,100 for a family of four), and for pregnant women to qualify, their household income must be at or below 250% of the federal poverty level ($55,125 for a family of four, counting the unborn child). You can check your family income’s eligibility at http://www.dhmh.state.md.us/mma/mchp/pdf/2009/MCHP_Income_Guidelines_3-09.pdf
Additionally, individuals seeking MCHP coverage must currently be uninsured. There are some exceptions to this requirement, so it is best to contact MCHP to see if you or your children are eligible.
How to apply
To apply for MCHP, you’ll need some basic information, including your address, information about any other health insurance you or your family have, names and birthdates and social security numbers, and information about and proof of your family income. The application is fairly simple and there is assistance available if you help completing it. You can get an application at your local health department or social services office, WIC offices, or even your child’s school. You can also download an application at www.dhmh.state.md.us/mma/mchp/pdf/MCHP_Application_Form_08.pdf. For more information, you can contact the MCHP hotline at 1-800-456-8900 or visit your local health department. Visit www.dhmh.state.md.us/mma/mchp/pdf/EnglishLHDDirectory2007.pdf to find your local health department and pertinent contact information. If you have questions, think your children might qualify, or would like more information, contact MCHP. This valuable program can help keep your kids healthy and give you the peace of mind that comes with having quality health insurance for your children.
