As summer winds down and back-to-school season approaches, parents are juggling school supplies, schedules, and permission slips. Amid the rush, health experts urge families to add one more item to their to-do list: securing health coverage for their children. Through the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and Medicaid, eligible families can access free or low-cost coverage that supports children’s health and academic success.
Many families may assume they do not qualify, but eligibility is broader than often perceived. According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, eligibility varies by state and is based on family income and household size. In most states, children up to age 19 from a family of four earning up to $80,000 per year may qualify. In some states, eligible children can still qualify even if family income is higher.
Health coverage plays a crucial role in a child’s ability to thrive in school. Medicaid and CHIP provide a range of services including annual checkups, school physicals, preventive care, dental and vision services, mental health care, prescription medications, and specialized services for children with disabilities. These services help identify health needs early, manage chronic conditions, and ensure children are physically and emotionally ready to learn.
“Healthy kids are confident kids, who are ready to participate in every opportunity inside and outside the classroom,” the announcement notes. For instance, vision and hearing services support classroom participation, while dental care helps prevent toothaches and missed school days. Mental health care is also covered, supporting emotional well-being and academic focus.
Enrollment for Medicaid and CHIP is open year-round, meaning families do not have to wait for a specific period to apply. Applications can be submitted by phone, by mail, or in person through state Medicaid or CHIP offices. For online applications, families can visit InsureKidsNow.gov/coverage to find their state’s information.
Once enrolled, coverage must be renewed every twelve months. It is important for families to keep their address, email, and phone number up to date with their state office to avoid missing renewal notices. For more information, call 1-877-KIDS-NOW (1-877-543-7669).
This communication was produced at U.S. taxpayer expense by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. With the school year fast approaching, ensuring children have health coverage is a foundational step toward a successful academic year.
