In Olympia: Kids taking up new coverage options

A law passed in July that expands state-subsidized health coverage to at least 38,000 low-income children in Washington State is already showing results.

Nearly 8,000 uninsured children have been enrolled, enabling them to get immunizations, well-child visits, and other vital health care. The insurance will also improve their access to care in a primary care setting such as a CHC and discourage the use of inappropriate and more expensive primary care settings like emergency rooms.

The new law increases eligibility levels for existing state programs and is designed to cover every child in the state by 2010. Thanks to the law, some 50,000 children are now eligible to enroll, though the state projects actual enrollment at about 38,000.

The law also provides funding to get the word to families who are eligible for subsidized insurance but have not enrolled their children. Some families are unaware that their income makes them eligible. In fact, children in families of four earning up to $51,625 are now eligible, and the income limit will increase to $61,950 in January 2009.

Because some children in the state cycle on and off public insurance unnecessarily, the new law simplifies the steps required for families to enroll in and maintain coverage. Another key provision emphasizes the quality of care: The state is developing performance measures to ensure that kids get the right care in the right place at the right time.

As we work to increase access to health care, Community Health Plan's network of providers and others committed to accessible, affordable health care are essential members of our team. For information on how you can get involved, please contact Rebecca Kavoussi at (206) 613-8930 or rebecca.kavoussi@chpw.org, or visit www.savehealthcareinwa.org.