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Learn About CHIP in Arizona

The Arizona Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provides affordable health insurance for eligible children. In Arizona, the CHIP program is known as KidsCare. Many prospective applicants ask “Is CHIP considered Medicaid?” when they are attempting to find low-cost subsidized health care for their children. Although closely related to Medicaid for children, CHIP is a separate program. If a household does not meet AZ Medicaid eligibility children from that household may still qualify for CHIP benefits. Answer the question “What is CHIP Medicaid?” and learn about CHIP and Medicaid enrollment by reading the information in the sections below.

What is the Arizona Children’s Health Insurance Program?

The Arizona Children’s Health Insurance Program helps low-income families provide health care coverage for their children. The CHIP KidsCare program is operated by the Arizona Health Care Costs Containment System (AHCCCS). The program offers affordable health insurance to children from households that do not qualify for Medicaid eligibility due to having an income that is slightly above the Medicaid income minimum. Arizona KidsCare is structured like a health maintenance organization (HMO). CHIP in AZ has a variety of medical professionals to select from in each beneficiary’s zip code. The program allows you to choose a primary care doctor for your child. You will need to see this doctor first for medical treatment for your child. They can authorize non-emergency services or care by a specialist.

To successfully enroll in Arizona CHIP, candidates must meet the eligibility requirements set by the AHCCCS. Before learning how to apply for CHIP, applicants can be sure that their child:

  • Is a resident of Arizona.
  • Is younger than 19 years of age.
  • Is a U.S. citizen or has qualified immigrant status.
  • Falls within the household income limit.
  • Is not covered by any other health insurance.
  • Does not qualify for Medicaid coverage with AHCCS.

In addition, AZ CHIP enrollment will require the applicant to provide information and documentation, including a Social Security number or an application for a Social Security Number.

Is CHIP considered Medicaid in Arizona?

Some people wonder “Is CHIP considered Medicaid in Arizona?” but even though the two programs provide subsidized health insurance, they are different programs. The AZ Children’s Health Insurance Program is an extension of the federal Medicaid program that allows for families to receive health insurance coverage when they do not qualify for Medicaid. The program is managed by the state with minimums set by the federal government for services offered.

Both CHIP and Medicaid in Arizona have an income maximum, but the maximum is higher for CHIP, allowing more applicants to qualify for the program. Unlike AZ Medicaid for children enrollees, CHIP KidsCare enrollees will have to pay a monthly health insurance premium, unless they are Native Americans with proof of tribal enrollment in a federally recognized tribe. The cost of the premium will depend on the applicant household’s income level and amount of children. Premiums range from a minimum of $10 to a maximum of $70.

What is covered by CHIP Medicaid in Arizona?

The services covered by CHIP in Arizona are mostly the same as those covered by Medicaid. AZ CHIP was created to offer a range of health insurance benefits to cover your child’s health needs, including:

  • Visits to the doctor.
  • Shots and immunizations.
  • Prescription medications.
  • Lab work and X-rays.
  • Medical treatment for emergencies.
  • Physical exams.
  • Behavioral health treatment.
  • Vision
  • Dental treatments.

To learn more about medical services that are covered by CHIP, you can download our free guide today.

How to Apply for CHIP in Arizona

Understanding how to apply for CHIP in Arizona is an important part of the CHIP enrollment process. The Children’s Health Insurance Program does not use the same form for CHIP and Medicaid enrollment. However, the AZ CHIP enrollment form can be used for other services offered by AHCCCS. Those interested in applying for CHIP benefits have several methods to choose from. To apply by mail, applicants can fill out the required application and send it to the following address:

Arizona Department of Economic Security
Family Assistance Administration
P.O. Box 19009
Phoenix, AZ 85005-9009

You can also apply for CHIP in person at any Department of Economic Security (DES)/Family Assistance Administration (FAA) office in Arizona. If you plan to mail your CHIP application, you can find and print a form online. Be sure to sign your Arizona CHIP application before mailing it. Without your signature, the application will be considered invalid and not be reviewed by AHCCCS to receive benefits. CHIP applications must be accompanied by any required documentation, such as paystubs to prove income eligibility. You can download our free guide to learn more about applying for CHIP.