Many more Pennsylvania children will have access to health care thanks to a reauthorization and expansion of the state’s Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
Governor Tom Corbett signed the bill, the first piece of legislation associated with his Healthy Pennsylvania plan, on Thursday. Corbett’s 2013-2014 budget includes $8.5 million for CHIP enrollment and outreach, and will add 9,000 more children to the rolls. The legislation also lifts the six-month waiting period, allowing for timelier access to the benefits for new CHIP participants.
Pennsylvania’s children deserve to lead healthy, successful lives. Insurance coverage is essential for families to get appropriate and necessary health care for their children. During this time of economic downturn, it is more important than ever that Pennsylvania continue to offer health insurance to children in need of coverage and care. The impact is plain and simple – having insurance improves health outcomes of children. Furthermore, children who have health insurance generally have a relationship with a primary care physician. Families with coverage are less likely to use costly emergency room services for common childhood ailments. Health care coverage is strongly linked to academic success as well.
The Pennsylvania Catholic Conference (PCC) and Pennsylvania Catholic Health Association (PCHA) applaud the expansion of the health care program.
Learn more about eligibility and benefits of CHIP at http://www.chipcoverspakids.com/.
