With the new school year approaching, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services is urging families to consider enrolling their children in the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) or Medicaid to ensure they have health coverage. These programs provide free or low-cost health insurance for eligible children up to age 18 (Medicaid) or 19 (CHIP), covering services such as annual checkups, preventive care, dental and vision services, mental health care, and prescription medications.
Eligibility varies by state and is based on family income and household size. In most states, children from a family of four earning up to $80,000 per year may qualify, and some states have even higher income limits. This means many families who assume they do not qualify might actually be eligible. The programs are designed to support children's health so they can succeed in school—from addressing vision problems with glasses to providing mental health support and managing chronic conditions.
One key advantage of CHIP and Medicaid is that enrollment is open year-round; families do not need to wait for a specific open enrollment period to apply. Applications can be submitted by phone, by mail, in person at a state Medicaid or CHIP office, or online at InsureKidsNow.gov/coverage. Once enrolled, coverage must be renewed every twelve months, so it is critical to keep contact information up to date with the state office to avoid lapses in coverage.
For business and technology leaders, this announcement highlights the importance of accessible healthcare as a foundation for a productive future workforce. Healthy children are more likely to attend school regularly, perform better academically, and develop into capable employees. Companies that support community health initiatives may find long-term benefits in a healthier labor pool. Additionally, the use of online portals for enrollment and management underscores the role of technology in streamlining public health services.
To apply or learn more, families can visit InsureKidsNow.gov or call 1-877-KIDS-NOW (1-877-543-7669). The information is provided by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and was produced at U.S. taxpayer expense.
