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Learn About CHIP in Hawaii

Since 1997, the Hawaii Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) has been available across the state. HI CHIP provides eligible children and teens younger than 19 years of age with access to affordable health insurance. Many people may wonder “What is CHIP Medicaid?” as they first learn about this program. Others ask “Is CHIP considered Medicaid?” when they see the connection between the programs. The Children’s Health Insurance Program is an extension of the Medicaid program that provides access to health coverage for children from families that do not meet Medicaid standards. Even if a household does not have Medicaid eligibility children from that household can still receive health insurance through CHIP. Discover more about how to apply for CHIP and find out what is covered by CHIP Medicaid in Hawaii by reading the informative sections provided below.

What is the Hawaii Children’s Health Insurance Program?

Both Hawaii Medicaid for children and CHIP are funded by the state and the federal government. Medicaid and CHIP use the same network of providers, including primary care physicians, specialists, hospitals and pharmacies. Beneficiaries can choose their primary care doctor and other medical professionals or providers as long as they are in this network. Those enrolled in the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) may have to pay for a small portion of their medical care. After applying to CHIP in HI, applicants will receive information by mail regarding their enrollment status. To learn more about CHIP and Medicaid enrollment, you can download our free guide today.

Is CHIP considered Medicaid in Hawaii?

While CHIP and Medicaid enrollment in Hawaii are very similar, the programs are not the same. The HI Children’s Health Insurance Program is a Medicaid expansion program that is locally referred to as Quest. CHIP aims to provide children with access to affordable health care to either treat or prevent medical disorders or diseases. Medicaid eligibility is generally for low-income households, people with disabilities and certain elderly people. The Children’s Health Insurance Program is designed for families that do not have Medicaid eligibility but still need help buying health insurance. There is a separate CHIP program called Quest Extended Access that is for blind or disabled children.

Who qualifies for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) in Hawaii?

Many children can be covered by CHIP in Hawaii as long as they meet particular criteria for enrollment. These HI CHIP eligibility guidelines may be similar to Children’s Medicaid guidelines, but they are not the same. The following list contains CHIP enrollment guidelines:

  • Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or legal alien.
  • Applicants must be 18 years of age or younger.
  • Applicants must come from a household that meets the program’s income guidelines.
  • Applicants cannot be enrolled in other forms of health insurance.

When applying for CHIP, applicants will have to show proof of citizenship or immigration status as well as proof of income from documents such as a paystub. Those who do not meet the children’s Medicaid eligibility requirements can still apply for CHIP.

What is covered by CHIP Medicaid in Hawaii?

“What is covered by CHIP in Hawaii?” is often one of the first questions asked by applicants. CHIP covers a wide variety of health and medical services, including:

  • Inpatient and outpatient hospital stays.
  • Doctor’s visits and check-ups.
  • Routine shots.
  • Dental care.
  • Vision care.
  • Laboratory tests and X-rays.
  • Emergency services.

There are other services covered by CHIP that are not listed above. It is important for enrollees to use providers in-network with the CHIP program in HI, as medical services provided out-of-network may not be covered by CHIP. Most check-ups and preventative forms of health care will not come with a copayment. However, most other services will require CHIP enrollees to pay a small fee at the time of their medical services or treatments. To learn more about services covered by CHIP, you can download our free guide.

How to Apply for CHIP in Hawaii

Applying for CHIP in Hawaii is a simple process. The most convenient and quickest way to sign up for CHIP benefits is to create an online account with the online system provided by the Hawaii government. From there, applicants can find out more information about government programs and submit their applications. Both Medicaid and CHIP enrollment can be managed in the same way. Applying for Medicaid online is also an option for Medicaid petitioners.

One can also apply to the Children’s Health Insurance Program by visiting a local Hawaii Department of Human Services office. There is no waiting period in Hawaii for enrolling in CHIP. There also is no asset test or interview required to apply to this government program. Note that HI CHIP enrollment does not last permanently, and beneficiaries will be asked to reapply every 12 months. Petitioners can always appeal the state’s decision not to enroll them in the CHIP program.