Many families who are served at the Community Action Agency of St. Louis County, Inc. receive assistance through the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
Families may find themselves at a very moderate-income level but still above the financial guidelines to receive Medicaid. Most frequently they are just getting by, living from pay check to pay check, and the cost of paying a monthly insurance premium would create a tremendous hardship.
Funding the program expired on September 30, and Congress has not yet reauthorized the program. Millions of children from low- to middle-income families in Missouri and across the United States are in danger of losing access to health care.
Children with health insurance are more likely than those who are not covered to receive early care for health problems, and they are at lower risk for hospitalization.
Also, there is evidence that improved health among children covered by CHIP translates into gains in school performance and educational attainment over the longer term. By providing an anchor within the health care system, CHIP coverage gives children and families access to vital preventive services and helps protect families’ economic security.
CHIP is essential for our communities, families and children in our state.
Cenia Bosman is executive director of Community Action Agency of St. Louis County.
