I can’t afford health insurance: How can I provide health care coverage for my kids?

Steve Chapoton

| 2 min read

Broken bones, ear tubes, even toys lodged in the nose – as your child grows and develops, there are endless possibilities to the extent of health care he or she may need; and kids health care can be costly. The good news is, children in Michigan who are not currently covered may be eligible to receive insurance through certain health care programs. Specific coverage may vary depending on the program, but there are three options available to Michigan families that can really help financially. Here are some programs available to Michiganders in need of insurance for their kids:
Healthy Kids is a Medicaid health care program for children under the age of 19 in low-income families. The program offers comprehensive health care benefits including dental, vision and mental health services. If your child is already enrolled in a Medicaid health plan, they are eligible for the Healthy Kids program.
Administered by the Department of Community Health (DCH), MIChild is a state-wide health care program for low-income, uninsured children of Michigan’s working families. All children in one family under the age of 19 are covered by a low monthly premium rate of just $10 per month.
Another program available through the Department of Community Health is Children’s Special Health Care Services (CSHCS). Children under the age of 21 with special health care needs may have the option to be covered for approved medical services by the program. Some adults with cystic fibrosis or certain blood disorders may also qualify for CSHCS.
More details about these programs are available on the Department of Community Health website, including application requirements, more information and ways to apply for each available program.
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A Healthier Michigan is sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, a nonprofit, independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.
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