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Learn About CHIP in Montana

The Montana Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) helps many children across the state to get access to low cost medical services. “What is CHIP Medicaid?” is a common question from new applicants in search of health care for their children. The mission of the CHIP program is to help families who do not qualify for Medicaid provide health insurance coverage for their children. If a household does not have Medicaid eligibility children in that family still can apply for CHIP. Medicaid for children and CHIP may seem similar, but there are different guidelines that govern each program in Montana. Prospective applicants may be asking “What is covered by CHIP Medicaid?” when applying to the program. Get answers to this question and learn how to apply for CHIP in MT by reviewing the information on this page.

What is Montana’s Children’s Health Insurance Program?

CHIP and Medicaid enrollment in Montana are handled differently, as they are two separate programs. One major difference between CHIP and Medicaid is that Medicaid coverage is for low income individuals of all ages. CHIP is for Medicaid ineligible children who still need medical assistance benefits. Those enrolled in MT CHIP will have access to all providers on the Blue Cross Blue Shield Montana provider network. CHIP recipients need to make sure they are receiving medical treatments or services from an in-network provider, as the services received from an out-of-network provider may not be covered by CHIP benefits. Children with CHIP eligibility can continue seeing their existing doctor as long as the physician is in-network with the Montana Provider Network.

Is CHIP considered Medicaid in Montana?

Montana CHIP and Medicaid are not the same, but CHIP is considered an extension of the Medicaid program. Enrolling in CHIP or Medicaid requires a similar process, but the two programs are different. The MT Children’s Health Insurance Program is known locally as Healthy Montana Kids. Children who do not have Medicaid eligibility and meet the guidelines for CHIP enrollment will receive low-cost health coverage. Recipients will have to pay a small premium as well as copays for most medical services. There is a yearly limit on how much a family can pay in copays. After a family meets that limit, they will not have to pay for their children’s medical services until the next enrollment year. Medicaid eligible children will have all of their qualifying healthcare needs covered and will not have to pay a premium. Candidates applying for CHIP cannot be enrolled in Medicaid.

Who qualifies for CHIP in Montana?

Many children are covered by CHIP in Montana. Enrollment in CHIP is possible if a candidate meets the following requirements:

  • The applicant is a U.S. citizen or legal immigrant.
  • The applicant is younger than 19 years of age.
  • The applicant meets the income requirements.
  • The applicant is not insured or covered by Medicaid benefits.

Income requirements for Montana CHIP enrollment also depend on household size. For example, families with three members will have a lower income maximum than families of seven. When you apply for CHIP, you will have to verify your eligibility by providing proof of identity, income sources and immigration status. Providing false information on the MT CHIP application to gain enrollment in the program is a serious criminal offense. You can download our free guide to learn more about CHIP guidelines.

What services are covered by CHIP in Montana?

The medical services covered by CHIP benefits in Montana are numerous and varied. After the MT CHIP enrollment process has been completed, beneficiaries will be covered for medical services, including:

  • Hospital visits.
  • Doctor’s appointments and check-ups.
  • Specialist visits.
  • Emergency services.
  • Vision and hearing care.
  • Dental care.
  • Routine shots.
  • Mental health and substance abuse services.

Children’s Medicaid will also cover these services. Most of these services covered by CHIP benefits will come with small copayments for CHIP recipients, but some preventative care services may be free of cost. MT CHIP will not cover treatments that are not scientifically proven to give medical benefits, such as acupuncture or aromatherapy. To learn more about services covered by CHIP, download our comprehensive guide today.

How to Apply for CHIP in Montana

Applying for CHIP in Montana might seem like a confusing process but it is actually quite simple. Candidates can apply to CHIP online by creating an online benefits account with The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services. This account lets you check your eligibility, apply to government assistance programs and get important information about your case. After completing MT CHIP or Medicaid enrollment, you are required to keep certain personal information up to date. You can update your information by logging into this account as well. Applying for the Children’s Health Insurance Program can also be completed by visiting your local office of public assistance.