
As a parent, ensuring your child's dental health is a top priority. CHIP dental insurance can provide the necessary coverage, but it's essential to understand how it works.
Children under 21 are eligible for CHIP dental insurance, regardless of their family's income level. This makes it a great option for families who may not qualify for traditional dental insurance.
CHIP dental insurance plans typically cover a range of services, including routine cleanings, fillings, and extractions. Some plans may also cover orthodontic care and oral surgery.
The cost of CHIP dental insurance varies depending on the state and family size.
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CHIP Providers
CHIP providers are available to serve your child's dental needs.
Their hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8a - 6p CT, with the Member Services Line closed on state-approved holidays.
An automated system is available 24/7, so you can still get help when the office is closed.
If your child needs emergency dental services during regular business hours, call their Main Dentist to find out how to get emergency services.
In case of an emergency after hours, call your CHIP medical health plan.
CHIP also offers a newsletter with tips and information to improve your child's oral health.
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CHIP Benefits
CHIP offers a wide range of benefits for children's health, including comprehensive insurance coverage.
One of the key benefits is immunizations, which are essential for preventing serious diseases.
Routine check-ups are also covered, allowing parents to stay on top of their child's health.
Prescription drugs are covered, including medications for chronic conditions.
Dental care is also included, which is especially important for kids who are prone to cavities and tooth decay.
Vision and eye care are also covered, including regular eye exams and glasses or contacts if needed.
Maternity care is included, which is a relief for new parents who want to ensure their child's health from the start.
Mental health benefits are also covered, which is essential for children who may be struggling with anxiety or depression.
Hospitalization is covered for up to 90 days per year, which can be a huge relief for parents who are worried about medical bills.
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Durable medical equipment, such as wheelchairs or walkers, is also covered.
Substance abuse treatment is included, which is a vital service for children who may be struggling with addiction.
Here's a list of some of the specific services that are covered under CHIP:
- Immunizations
- Routine check-ups
- Prescription drugs
- Dental care
- Vision and eye care
- Maternity care
- Mental health benefits
- Hospitalization (up to 90 days/year)
- Durable medical equipment
- Substance abuse treatment
- Partial hospitalization for mental health services
- Rehabilitation therapies
- Home health care
- Hospice and palliative services
- Medically necessary orthodontia
- Autism spectrum disorder and related services
CHIP—No Family Makes Too Much Money to Enroll—Covers Pediatric Dentistry
CHIP is a great option for families who need dental insurance for their kids. CHIP provides coverage for pediatric dentistry, including checkups and cleanings, diagnostic services, fillings, crowns, and root canal therapy.
The program is designed to help families in need, and it's not just for low-income families. CHIP is available to families who make too much money to qualify for Medicaid, but not enough to afford private insurance.
Pennsylvania's CHIP program, in collaboration with Keystone Health Plan East, Inc., determines your child's eligibility for medical, dental, vision, hearing, and prescription drug coverage. If your child is eligible, you can expect to pay either free, low-cost, or full-cost options for dental services, depending on your family's income.
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Here are some of the dental services covered by CHIP:
- Checkups and cleanings
- Diagnostic services
- Fillings
- Crowns
- Root canal therapy
- *Some additional procedures may be applicable (depending on eligibility)
Penn Dental Medicine in Philadelphia is one of the many dental clinics that accept CHIP coverage, making it a great option for families in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the disadvantages of CHIP insurance?
CHIP insurance has some drawbacks, including waiting periods and lock-outs that can leave children uninsured, as well as high premiums and cost-sharing requirements that may limit access to healthcare
Sources
- https://penndentalmedicine.org/blog/chip/
- https://mypenndentist.org/chip-dental-insurance-coverage/
- https://www.dentaquest.com/en/members/texas-medicaid-chip-dental-coverage/chip
- https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dhs/resources/chip/faq-chip/faq-chip-elibility-benefits.html
- https://www.geisinger.org/health-plan/plans/ghp-kids
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