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Kentucky is offering free health care insurance for children

Lt. Governor Jacqueline Coleman

Frankfort, Ky. — As Kentucky continues to deal with rising coronavirus cases, Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman brought focus to young patients. She discussed the Kentucky Children’s Health Insurance Program (KCHIP).

“We believe health care is not a privilege, an add-on to sweeten a job offer, a luxury, or a convenience. Health care is a right for every Kentuckian,” Coleman said. She added, “You should be able to see a doctor when you are sick, that should be especially true for children.”

In 2016, there were 35,000 uninsured children in Kentucky in 2016. That number jumped in 2018 to 40,000.

With KCHIP eligible families can receive free health insurance for children under 19.

“Those numbers are disturbing, but the good thing about that is KCHIP can help solve this problem because with KCHIP there is no cost and there are no copays,” said Coleman.

The program covers the following services:

  • Doctor visits
  • Dental care
  • Hospitalization
  • Outpatient hospital services
  • Psychiatrists
  • Laboratory tests and X-rays
  • Vision exams
  • Hearing services
  • Mental health services
  • Prescription medicines

Coleman said that the KCHIP program can help kids stay focused and excel both in and out of school.

“It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know that when kids are healthier they learn better and it impacts every aspect of their lives,” said Coleman.

The program also provides immunizations for children.

For more information or if you would like to apply you can visit the website or call 1-877-524-4718.