APRIL 25, 2007
615.253.5643 (OFFICE)
615.289.9851 (CELL)
COVERAGE TO CHILDREN
“CoverKids is a vital component to helping Tennessee lead the nation in its commitment to covering children,“ said Bredesen. “The interest in CoverKids underscores the need among Tennessee’s families for health coverage for children.”
Bredesen launched the CoverKids program at the end of March. To date, 314 are enrolled in CoverKids, which offers comprehensive health insurance coverage for children 18 years-old and younger, similar to the benefits offered to dependents of state employees. The program emphasizes preventive care and services most needed by children, including vaccinations, well-child visits, healthy babies program, and developmental screenings. In addition, there are no pre-existing condition exclusions. To be eligible, applicants must be a Tennessee resident and a U.S. citizen or qualified legal immigrant.
“I am elated to have insurance for my daughter and be part of CoverKids,” said Henry Webb of Memphis whose 19-month-old daughter, Hannah, is enrolled in CoverKids.
Pregnant women under 250 percent of the federal poverty level who are otherwise eligible may apply for coverage, including pre-natal, delivery and postpartum care.
A family of four with a household income of $51,625 or less is eligible for CoverKids with no monthly premiums, but each participant will pay reduced co-payments for services. Families above the income limit who wish to purchase coverage for their child can “buy in” to the program by paying monthly premiums.
In addition to CoverKids, Governor Phil Bredesen’s Cover Tennessee initiative offers health insurance options to uninsured individuals in Tennessee through three insurance programs with CoverTN as the centerpiece of the initiative. CoverTN is an affordable and portable health insurance initiative for uninsured small businesses. AccessTN, a high-risk pool, provides comprehensive coverage for adults who are uninsurable due to their health conditions. CoverRx is a statewide pharmacy assistance program designed to assist those who have no pharmacy coverage, but have a critical need for medication. More information on all Cover Tennessee programs is available at www.CoverTN.gov or by calling 1-866-COVERTN.
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