The Affordable Kids' Health Insurance Option That Every Parent Needs to Know About

6/19/17 - By Jessica Laird

Every child deserves access to quality health care. But in New York State alone, there are over 100,000 uninsured children. Scary, right? Meanwhile, there's actually an affordable, quality insurance plan that's been available to kids under the age of 19 for over a decade—but many parents don't even realize it's an option.

Child Health Plus is a New York State-sponsored program that seeks to make sure every child in New York State can access affordable health care. It provides kids with medical, dental, vision, and hearing coverage. Monthly premiums vary based on income, and can be free or as low as $9 per month. Nearly all kids are eligible, regardless of a family's financial situation. And because there's no enrollment period, you can sign up at any time through NY State of Health: The Official Health Plan Marketplace, where Fidelis Care offers some of the lowest full-premium Child Health Plus rates in the state. In addition to Fidelis Care, Child Health Plus is available through a number of insurance providers throughout New York.

The comprehensive Child Health Plus medical plan covers preventive services, like well child visits, immunizations, and diagnostic testing without copays or deductibles, so that your family can focus on staying healthy instead of worrying about mounting fees. When the unexpected happens, Child Health Plus benefits cover emergency care too, along with x-rays and whatever subsequent help your child may need to get back on his or her feet.

Research shows that kids with health insurance are better equipped to do well in class and have higher attendance rates than those without coverage. With schools and day cares back in session in the fall, summer is a great time to get your children enrolled. To learn more about coverage options for your child, check out the Fidelis Care Affordable Care Advisor, where you’ll also find estimated costs based on your income.

If you have questions about Child Health Plus, a Fidelis Care Health Benefit Representative can help you every step of the way, from completing the application to questions about benefits. Just call 1-888-FIDELIS (1-888-343-3547) for more information or to make an appointment with a Representative. You can also visit a Fidelis Care community office. To find a location near you, visit fideliscare.org/findanoffice.

Let’s all work together to bring the number of uninsured kids in New York State down to zero!