The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) in Oklahoma is specifically for minors who need health care coverage but do not qualify for Medicaid and are unable to purchase private health insurance. Oklahoma CHIP and Medicaid enrollment is limited to those who meet the eligibility requirements of the programs. The Department of Human Services uses different qualification factors to determine if minors in the state are eligible for Medicaid for children or CHIP. Even if parents or caretakers do not meet the requirements for Medicaid eligibility children of the household may still be able to receive health care insurance through CHIP. Parents and caretakers should learn how to apply for CHIP in OK if they seek health care coverage assistance for minors. Those accepted into the program can find out what is covered by CHIP Medicaid benefits and costs for coverage and services renders. Continue reading to find out what is CHIP Medicaid in Oklahoma.
What is the Oklahoma Children’s Health Insurance Program?
Households may question, “What is Oklahoma CHIP Medicaid?” as they explore the differences between the different health care assistance options available in the state. The primary purpose of the Oklahoma Children’s Health Insurance Program is to provide low-cost health coverage to children whose family cannot afford to purchase the insurance necessary to provide them with important medical services. CHIP is similar to Medicaid for children, as both programs provide minors with medical coverage. Medicaid in Oklahoma, often referred to as SoonerCare, and CHIP are state-run and funded jointly by the federal and state governments. The Children’s Health Insurance Program helps families who may not meet the requirements for Medicaid still receive insurance coverage for medical services. Even though CHIP helps young members of a family get the health services needed, interested applicants need to understand what coverage this children’s health insurance actually provides since not all assistance programs offer the same services and benefits.
Find comprehensive information about Medicaid including how to apply for health care coverage in our free guide.
Is CHIP considered Medicaid in Oklahoma?
While the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) in Oklahoma is an assistance program that provides medical care coverage and corresponds with the Medicaid program, it is a separate entity. Some may ask, “Is CHIP considered Medicaid?” upon hearing how similar the two programs seem. However, there are some key differences between Medicaid and CHIP in OK. For instance, after applying for Medicaid, children have continuous coverage for 12 months, even if household income changes within the year. OK CHIP participants will lose coverage if their family does not meet the requirements of the program.
Who qualifies for CHIP in Oklahoma?
Before potential petitioners explore CHIP and Medicaid enrollment in Oklahoma, they should first verify that they are eligible to participate in the intended program. Before a petitioner begins to explore how to apply for CHIP in OK, he or she should make sure that all of the below requirements are met. In order to qualify for CHIP, applicants must:
- Be younger than 19 years of age.
- Not be covered by any type of health insurance.
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
- Be a resident of Oklahoma
Additionally, the household must also maintain a certain annual income before taxes. The income limits for Medicaid and CHIP consider the number of family members in a household, and larger families can have higher earnings and still qualify for coverage.
What services are covered by CHIP in Oklahoma?
Potential CHIP beneficiaries may ask, “What is covered by CHIP Medicaid in Oklahoma?” when they consider applying for this program. Services that the Children’s Health Insurance Program provides include comprehensive coverage for many different basic and necessary medical needs, such as:
- Routine physical examinations and check-ups.
- Immunizations and vaccinations.
- Medication and pharmacy services.
- Vision and dental care services.
- Hospital care, both inpatient and outpatient.
- Laboratory and emergency services.
Through this program, children and teenagers younger than 19 years of age are able to receive the important health care services needed. Parents and caretakers should be aware that CHIP and Medicaid coverage is almost exclusive to in-network providers. Oklahoma will only cover the costs for health care services rendered by a medical professional associated with Medicaid.
How to Apply for CHIP in Oklahoma
Eligible petitioners for the Children’s Health Insurance Program in Oklahoma are able to apply for this program a few different ways. The most convenient process to apply for OK CHIP is through the state web portal. Online applications can be completed and submitted to the state. Applicants are also able to fill out a paper application and either choose to deliver the OK CHIP application to their local office personally or mail the paperwork to the appropriate office.
Learn more about applying to Medicaid in our free guide.