CHIP - The Children’s Insurance Program

Enrollment and Benefits Handbook

CHIP — the Children's Health Insurance Program — provides health coverage for eligible children and teens.

CHIP was established to provide health coverage to uninsured children that reside in households with incomes that are too high to qualify for Medicaid. The program also allows those that do not meet the income guidelines to purchase the coverage at the state’s negotiated rate.

​Children who have health insurance generally have better health throughout their childhood and into their teens. They are more likely to:

  • Receive needed shots that prevent disease

  • Get treatment for recurring illnesses such as ear infections and asthma

  • Access preventive care that keeps them healthy

  • Get sick less frequently

  • Receive the treatment they need when they are sick

  • Maintain better attendance and performance at school

Coverage through CHIP provides your kids with all of these valuable advantages. With CHIP, you can put your children in a better position to thrive and grow into healthy adults.

For most families, it's free. Families with incomes above the free CHIP limits will pay low monthly premiums and co-pays for some services. View comprehensive income information.​

Recommended vaccines are covered with CHIP. What's more, 96 percent of CHIP parents report they received an appointment for their child's vaccinations as soon as they wanted.

Vaccinations are some of the most important tools available for preventing disease, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Vaccinations not only protect our children, but also protect the community by reducing the spread of potentially serious diseases.

Most get their necessary shots during childhood. CHIP encourages all parents to view the recommended vaccination schedule to be sure your kids are up to date. 

Vaccine-preventable diseases have a severe impact, resulting in doctor's visits, hospitalizations and premature deaths. Read more about preventive pediatric health care (PDF) and/or visit the Pennsylvania Department of Health's website to learn more.

​​​Pre-existing conditions are covered. There are no exclusions for pre-existing conditions in CHIP or Medical Assistance. However, if your child has a serious medical condition or disability, he or she may be considered for Medical Assistance.