Ensuring your children have access to healthcare is incredibly important for their health and development. However, finding affordable health coverage can be challenging for immigrant families in the U.S. That said, with a bit of research, you will find plenty of options available to provide healthcare for children at low or no cost if you meet certain eligibility requirements.
In this guide, we will explain the main health insurance programs for immigrant children and how to apply.
Medicaid for Children
Medicaid is a joint state and Federal program that provides free or low-cost health insurance for low-income families and children. To qualify for Medicaid, kids under age 19 must be U.S. citizens or legal residents. Their household income must be below a certain level, which varies by state.
Medicaid for children covers services like:
- Doctor and hospital visits
- Prescriptions
- Immunizations
- Dental and vision care
- Mental healthcare
To apply for Medicaid for your kids, contact your state Medicaid office. You can also sign up through the Health Insurance Marketplace website or application counselors in your community. Having Medicaid ensures your children can access healthcare like well-child visits, treatments when sick, and important vaccines without costs becoming a barrier.
CHIP Coverage
The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provides low-cost health insurance for kids in families with moderate incomes who don’t qualify for Medicaid. The income limits range from about 200-400% of the federal poverty level depending on your state. Your child needs to be a U.S. citizen or legal resident to enroll in CHIP.
CHIP offers comprehensive benefits like routine check-ups, prescriptions, dental/vision care, and more. There are usually no monthly premiums or enrollment fees for CHIP. To apply, contact your state CHIP program as application processes vary. If approved, you can select a health plan through CHIP for your child.
Health Insurance Marketplace
Immigrant families may also buy health insurance for their kids through the Health Insurance Marketplace. Private insurance plans sold on the Marketplace must cover essential pediatric services like doctor visits, hospitalizations, prescriptions, and maternity care for pregnant teens.
Depending on your income, you may qualify for tax credits to reduce your monthly premiums for a Marketplace plan. If your children are not eligible for Medicaid or CHIP, shopping on the Marketplace can secure health coverage your family can afford.
Plans are available for citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders) living in the U.S.
HealthSherpa.com
Trying to navigate the Health Insurance Marketplace can be confusing and time-consuming. But there’s an easier way to find and enroll in the right plan for you – HealthSherpa.com.
HealthSherpa is a user-friendly, multi-lingual portal that makes applying for health coverage simpler. It provides the same Marketplace plan options and subsidies but with a streamlined application process.
The intuitive interface walks you through choosing the optimal insurance policy step-by-step. It only takes minutes to enter your information and compare personalized quotes side-by-side.
HealthSherpa translates all content into numerous languages like Spanish, Chinese, and more. Simply select your preferred language at the bottom of the homepage.
Health Insurance from Employers
Some jobs provide health insurance options that cover children and families. While employer plans can be more affordable than Marketplace coverage, make sure to evaluate the costs. Look into the premiums, deductibles, copays, and coinsurance that apply for pediatric coverage under any workplace health plan.
Community Health Centers
Community health centers provide health care on a sliding fee scale based on your income. They accept uninsured patients and can be a valuable source of pediatric care and women’s health services. Search online to find a federally qualified health center near you.
Look for these centers at FindHelp.org
Choosing the Best Health Insurance for Your Kids
As parents, consider all the options to determine the optimal medical coverage for your children. Medicaid and CHIP provide the most comprehensive benefits at little or no cost if your family meets the income criteria. Health insurance navigators can also assist you with evaluating plans and applying.
Every child deserves access to healthcare to stay healthy. Make use of public programs and community resources to ensure your children get the medical services they need for a strong start in life. Investing in their health now pays dividends as they grow into adulthood.
