A study by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation finds the parents of 6 out of 10 American children who qualify for Medicaid or the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) don't know they can take part in these health insurance programs.

The survey finds 82 percent of parents interviewed said they would enroll if they knew their children qualified. Based on that, the RWJ Foundation announced it will spent up to $26 million to fund a three-year awareness campaign to get these families signed up for health coverage.

All 50 states, the District of Columbia and other territories have used SCHIP funds to expand health coverage for children and families with moderate incomes. The foundation announced it will help thousands of local organizations and schools with their outreach campaigns.

The foundation’s study also finds many people believe their family simply does not qualify because both parents work. Income requirements vary from state to state, however, and qualification levels can vary from $25,000 to $30,000.

"Of the 11 million American children who are uninsured, seven million of them could have health care coverage today. We must let their parents know that their children are eligible and we must continue to make it easier for these parents to apply," said Dr. Steven A. Schroeder, president and chief executive officer of the RWJ Foundation, which has already awarded $47 million in outreach grants.

The campaign is being launched as millions of kids are returning to school. Organizers believe this strategy will help them better reach parents across the nation.

Those wishing to find out if they qualify for health care coverage are encouraged to call toll free 1-877-KIDS-NOW (1-877-543-7669). The number will automatically direct callers to their state's office.

Full text of the article is currently found at:
http://www.rwjf.org/events/ReleaseKids.htm