What is the purpose of the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)?

The Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is designed specifically to fill the gap for children in families whose incomes are too high to qualify for Medicaid but not high enough to afford private health insurance. This program allows states to offer coverage to a broader range of children, ensuring that those who fall into this financial category still receive essential health services.

CHIP's primary aim is to reduce the number of uninsured children by providing affordable health coverage options, including regular check-ups, immunizations, doctor visits, and emergency services. By helping families who might struggle with the costs of private insurance, CHIP plays a critical role in promoting the health and well-being of children across the nation.

Other programs, like Medicaid, serve different income levels, but CHIP specifically addresses the needs of those middle-ground families, ensuring that children do not miss out on critical healthcare due to financial barriers.