Federal Grandchild Health Insurance Coverage Laws
Seniors or older individuals who are the legal guardians of their grandchildren may need to locate affordable health insurance coverage. Many grandparents are no longer working and cannot rely on a group health insurance plan from an employer. However, there are various federal health programs available to obtain health insurance for a grandchild. One type of federal law that applies to health insurance coverage for children or grandchildren is the Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act, or CHIPRA.
Other People Are Reading
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Medicaid
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Medicaid is a state and federal program for low-income individuals and families who cannot afford health care coverage. The program is federally funded and administered by each state, which sets its own eligibility guidelines. Coverage is typically available for children up to age 19. Some states may also have a small co-payment that applies for some services. Grandparents may be able to use the Medicaid program to obtain health insurance for a grandchild.
Medicaid Managed Care Plans
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Grandparents or grandchildren who are eligible for Medicaid may need to use a Medicaid Managed Care Program. This program requires the selection and use of a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO). Children who are cared for by a grandparent may be granted an "exception" status in which the grandchild is not required to be enrolled in an HMO. However, grandparents have the option available to them if they wish to use an HMO. Information about HMOs is provided by the Department of Social Services.
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CHIP
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CHIP is the Children's Health Insurance Program, and is available in every state. The purpose of the program is to provide health insurance coverage to uninsured children and families who earn too much to qualify for Medicaid. Grandparents who are on Medicare and do not qualify for Medicaid may be able to use CHIP to provide health insurance for a grandchild. Program eligibility and benefits are determined by each state.
CHIPRA
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One of the few federal laws that applies to health insurance coverage for children is the Children's Health Insurance Reauthorization Act, or CHIPRA. The Act was signed into law by President Obama on February 4, 2009. The Act renews the Children's Health Insurance Program and expands health insurance coverage from seven million children to over 11 million children. The legislation also makes it easier for uninsured children from higher income families to obtain coverage.
Applying for Coverage
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Requirements for applying for coverage for Medicaid and CHIP can vary depending on the guidelines that are set by each state. Medicaid and CHIP have various eligibility requirements that include monthly income before taxes, and the size of the family.
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