Covering Kids' Health Needs
Until recently the debate over what to do about uninsured
Americans had largely focused on adults, particularly the
elderly. Now the focus has shifted to helping parents find
affordable insurance for kids.
As the year ended, politicians continued to grapple with how to
cover millions of uninsured kids, especially those of the working
poor who don't qualify for Medicaid or can't afford private
insurance. But legislation that would renew federal funding for the
State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) stalled. As
lawmakers debated how much to spend on the program, they confronted
new questions about issues like covering pregnant women, and
whether the benefits should include things like dental and mental
health care services.
What to Watch:
As the number of uninsured kids grows and the debate about SCHIP
continues, the question of how to ensure that all kids in the
United States get the health care they need is likely to be a
prominent issue in the presidential race. The well-being of
children and families is a perennial issue for those in political
life - but will it finally be solved? Or after elections, will it
be forgotten once again?
For Parents:
Finding Your Way in the Health Care System
Financial Management During Crisis
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Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
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